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The 20 best attractions in Manhattan

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

Shaye Weaver

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

This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click  here .

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Best Manhattan attractions

One World Observatory

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.

Empire State Building

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. With so many clamoring for the chance to take an elevator ride to the open-air observation deck on the 86th floor, it’s best to arrive early, between 8am and noon, for a chance to take in those awe-inspiring panoramic views.

The Statue of Liberty

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. 

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

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.

Central Park

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.

Chrysler Building

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.

The High Line

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?

Theater District

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.

National September 11 Memorial & Museum

9.  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.

Rockefeller Center

10.  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. 

Book Online

Grand Central Terminal

11.  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.

Whitney Museum of American Art

12.  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.

Save on the best NYC attractions.

New-York Historical Society

13.  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.

The Guggenheim Museum

14.  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.

Times Square

15.  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.

Chelsea Market

16.  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.

Flatiron Building

17.  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.

American Museum of Natural History

18.  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.

Macy’s Herald Square

19.  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.

New York Public Library, Stephen A. Schwarzman Building

20.  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?

The best bike tours in NYC

The best bike tours in NYC

For those looking to experience the city like a locals, hop on two wheels and join of the best bike tours NYC has to offer

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The Crazy Tourist

Home » Travel Guides » United States » New York (NY) » 55 Best Things to Do in New York City (New York)

55 Best Things to Do in New York City (New York)

New York is at the vanguard of western art, entertainment, food trends, fashion and finance. Now, you could get cute and obscure when you compile a guide like this.

But truth be told, 55 things isn’t enough for a city like New York, which is why our list is packed shamelessly with big-hitters, from the Statue of Liberty to Central Park, Ellis Island, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Empire State, Broadway and the Brooklyn Bridge.

These things are non-negotiable if you want to do New York justice, even if you’ll be accompanied by a few thousand tourists.

We’ve got a breathless ride through a city seared in the minds of people around the world, immortalised in television and movies, and able to inspire wonder, awe, quiet reflection and joy in even the most cynical travellers.

Let’s explore the best things to do in NYC :

1. The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Metropolitan Museum of Art, NYC

Backing onto Central on Fifth Avenue, the immense Metropolitan Museum of Art charts 5,000 years of applied and fine arts from all ends of the earth.

At the largest gallery in the United States you can chase your sense of curiosity down any number of rabbit-holes, marvelling at Sumerian cuneiform tablets, Chinese calligraphy, Classical sculpture, Egyptian mummies, Old Masters, Moorish textiles, Rococo fashion, armour worn by European monarchs, invaluable musical instruments, and that’s just to get started.

You could spend a whole day at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and leave knowing that there was more to see.

But a few of the indispensible exhibits are the transposed Egyptian Temple of Dendur (15BC), Raphael’s altar painting of Madonna and Child (1504), Rembrandt’s Aristotle with a Bust of Homer (1653), Washington Crossing the Delaware by Emanuel Leutze (1851) and van Gogh’s Self Portrait with Straw Hat (1887).

Skip the line : Metropolitan Museum of Art Skip-the-Line Ticket

2. Central Park

Central Park, NYC

New York’s population doubled in the 30 years up to 1855, by which time the burgeoning city was in desperate need of more green space.

The answer was to cut a giant strip from the middle of Manhattan’s grid system, from 5th to 8th Avenue, and from 59th to 110th Street.

On 843 acres, this captivating landscape was drawn up by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux and officially completed in 1873. Within Central Park’s boundaries are ponds, a central lake, a reservoir, public art, schist outcrops, almost 50 fountains, 21 playgrounds, complete sports facilities, more than 25,000 trees and dozens of interesting landmarks like the stately Bethesda Terrace.

The list of things to do is almost endless, and includes a zoo, boating, yoga classes, outdoor theatre and horse-drawn carriage tours.

Such is the size of Central Park, two wheels might be a better way to get around than two feet, and you can hire a bike via GetYourGuide.com .

3. National 9/11 Memorial and Museum

9/11 Memorial

Sombre but necessary, the National 9/11 Memorial and Museum is on the site of the World Trade Centre.

The National September 11 Memorial is a jarring tribute to the 2,977 people killed in the attacks in 2001, as well as the six who died in the 1993 bombing.

There are twin reflecting pools here, an acre in size, marking out the exact footprints of the Twin Towers and walled with the largest man-made waterfalls in North America.

The bronze panels on parapets surrounding these pools are inscribed with the names of every person who died in the two attacks.

The Memorial Museum recalls the events of 9/11, the weeks leading up to the attack, and its aftermath, but also goes into depth on the lives of those who perished.

Among the exhibits are the monumental Last Column, fragments from the aircraft and a damaged fire truck.

Suggested tour : The 9/11 Tribute Museum & Memorial Walking Tour

4. Empire State Building

Empire State Building

It’s a sign of New York’s sheer ambition in the 20s and 30s that nearly 90 years after it was topped off, the timeless Empire State Building is still the 44th tallest skyscraper in the world.

The roof of this Art Deco tower is 380 metres over the Midtown streets, and the highest visitable point in the city from 2001 until the One World Trade Center Observatory opened in 2011. The Main Deck on the 86th floor is open until 02:00 for a late-night perspective of the city that never sleeps, while in clear weather by day the panoramas scroll out for 80 miles, as far as Pennsylvania and Massachusetts.

Further up there’s an indoor observatory on the 102nd floor, once part of a docking station for airships, and accessed with an upgrade.

Make sure to soak up the Art Deco opulence of the Lobby on Fifth Avenue, with marble floors and the unmistakeable image of the tower behind the main desk.

Skip the line : Empire State Building General & Express Ticket Options

5. Statue of Liberty

Statue Of Liberty

From 1886, immigrants making the voyage to New York for a new life would be greeted by this inspiring symbol of freedom, conceived by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and with a metal framework built by Gustave Eiffel.

The 93-metre Statue of Liberty depicts the Roman goddess Libertas, striding free of the shackles at her feet, holding aloft a torch in her right hand and carrying a tablet in her left hand bearing the date of the Declaration of Independence, “JULY IV MDCCLXXVI” (1776). New York’s main point of departure for Liberty Island is Battery Park.

The queues for the ferry and new Statue of Liberty Museum on Liberty Island can be long and slow, which is why it’s well worth getting “skip the line” Priority or Flexible Statue of Liberty Tickets with GetYourGuide.com, which include a complimentary audio guide and optional access to the pedestal.

Trips to the top of the crown are highly coveted, so you have to book well in advance.

Recommended tour : Statue of Liberty: Pedestal Express and Ellis Island

6. The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

MoMA

Some of the modern age’s most celebrated art is on show at the world-famous MoMA, one of the largest and most important museums for modern and contemporary art in the world.

The collection runs to 150,000 pieces, comprising a good many masterpieces.

Among them are The Starry Night by van Gogh, Picasso’ s Les Demoiselles d’Avignon, Dalí’s The Persistence of Memory, The Dance by Matisse, Painting 1946 by Francis Bacon and a triptych from Monet’s Water Lilies series.

This incredible reserve is matched with high-profile temporary exhibitions: The work of Degas, Jackson Pollock, Picasso, Gilbert & George, Miró has starred in solo shows in the last few years, along with many more enlightening survey shows and transformative installations.

All year round, MoMA throws open its doors for free on Friday nights from 16:00 to 20:00.

Book online : Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) Skip-the-Line Tickets

7. Rockefeller Center

Rockefeller Center

The proportions of this vertical complex in Midtown are astonishing, especially when you remember that it was built throughout the Great Depression.

The Rockefeller Center is made up of 19 buildings (14 Art Deco, five International Style), broken by a sunken central plaza, all commissioned by the Rockefeller family, who first made their money in the oil industry.

We’ll talk about the Top of the Rock observatory and Radio City below, but there’s much at street level at the Rockefeller Center that you’ll have seen many times before in movies.

You’ve got the Atlas statue (1936) facing St Patrick’s Cathedral across Fifth Avenue, Prometheus (1934) on the west side of the famous sunken plaza and a majestic accompaniment to the much-loved skating rink and Christmas tree.

8. Brooklyn Bridge

Brooklyn Bridge, New York City

Yet another landmark that makes New York, well… New York, the Brooklyn Bridge links Manhattan to Brooklyn across the East River and became the world’s first steel wire suspension bridge when it was completed in 1883. At that time it was also the first permanent crossing on the East River.

In 1884 the showman P.T. Barnum led a parade of 21 elephants across the bridge to allay doubts about its structural integrity.

The structure’s sense of drama comes from its two neo-Gothic towers, composed of limestone and granite and rising to 84 metres, and anchoring the intricate cable system.

The Brooklyn Bridge is best crossed as a pedestrian on the elevated walkway above the road and through the very centre of the towers, for satisfying vistas of New York’s silhouette and the cables overhead.

9. Broadway

Broadway, NYC

A byword for New York’s theatre district, and even musical theatre in general, Broadway has more than 41 venues with 500 seats or more.

Most of these are on or within a few blocks of Times Square, and helped to turn New York into the cultural capital of the West in the 20th century.

Broadway’s eye-catching signs go back as far as 1910, when theatre owners realised it was safer and cheaper to advertise their venues with electric lights.

White bulbs took longer to burn out, and so Broadway became known as the “Great White Way”. For many generations of visitors to New York, catching a musical has been an essential ritual, and attendances continue to rise, driven by appearances from Hollywood stars (Bryan Cranston, Adam Driver, Keri Russell and Daniel Radcliffe in 2019). The three ever-present productions are Phantom of the Opera (1988) at the Majestic, Chicago (1996) at the Ambassador, and the Lion King (1997) at the Minskoff Theatre, while Hamilton and the Book of Mormon are more recent sensations.

Tip: Available shows on Broadway

10. One World Trade Center Observatory

One World Trade Center Observatory

Over almost a decade of construction between 2006 and 2015, the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere took its place on the northwest corner of the World Trade Center site.

“One World Trade Center” comes from the north skyscraper of the Twin Towers and as of 2019 is the sixth tallest building in the world at 541.3 metres.

The height in feet is 1776, referring to the year the Declaration of Independence was signed, and you’ll rocket up 102 storeys in just 47 seconds.

The Observatory grants a 360° view, which at this end of Manhattan means you can look down on the Upper New York Bay and the Statue of Liberty, as well as the Brooklyn Bridge and up to the cluster of Midtown skyscrapers.

Come just before sunset to watch the city lighting up.

Book online: One World Observatory Ticket: Skip-the-Ticket-Line

11. High Line

High Line Park, NYC

This railway viaduct, cutting down the west side of Midtown Manhattan, belongs to the West Side Line but had been effectively abandoned from 1980 until it was turned into an elevated linear park, 1.45 miles long.

Taking cues from the Coulée verte René-Dumont in Paris the High Line opened in 2009 and threads through Chelsea, with occasional views across the Hudson River at the south, and to the towers of the slick new Hudson Yards development in the north.

The gardens were designed by Dutch landscape architect Piet Oudolf, and have a continuous pebble-dash concrete walkway flanked by beds growing the hardy plant species that sprouted in the gravel on the disused line, like coneflowers, blazing stars and a variety of grasses and trees.

Unveiled in June 2019, the Plinth at 10th Avenue and 30th Street is a space devoted to a rotating series of monumental, contemporary art commissions, kicking off with Simone Leigh’s Brick House.

Combo tour : High Line and Greenwich Village Combo Tour

12. Staten Island Ferry

Staten Island Ferry

One of the great free things to do in New York, the Staten Island Ferry zips across the Upper New York Bay 25 hours a day, seven days a week.

This crossing is one of the last survivors of a whole system of ferries that shuttled people over the city’s waterways before the bridges were constructed.

The service, between Whitehall Street and St George on Staten Island, is used by 22 million a year, and the five mile crossing takes about 25 minutes.

As a visitor, the reason to make the trip will become clear as you pull away from Manhattan, taking in perfect views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, as well as the skyscrapers and bridges of Lower Manhattan.

13. Times Square

Times Square

Broadway’s theatre district coalesces around Times Square, a bowtie shaped plaza where Broadway and Seventh Avenue meet, in an urban ravine walled by dazzling electronic billboards.

It’s something you have to see, especially if you’re a first-timer.

On busy days more than 460,000 people pass through Times Square, and up to a million come to ring in the New Year at the ball drop, a tradition going back to 1907. In 2016, to keep things a bit more orderly, the city set up designated areas for the many street performers, and drew up paths to help you navigate the crowds.

As everybody knows, Times Square wasn’t always as clean and glossy.

From the 1960s to the early-90s, this was one of the grimiest blocks, lined with peep shows and sex shops, and a symbol for a city struggling with violent crime.

In 1984 there were 2,300 recorded crimes on and around the square, 460 of which were serious.

14. Grand Central Terminal

Grand Central Terminal

Much more than a simple transportation hub, the Grand Central Terminal (1913) is a Beaux-Arts wonder, with amazing proportions, exceptional workmanship in its architecture and fittings, and more than 60 shops and 35 places to eat.

This cavernous building, an enduring meeting point for New Yorkers, has 44 platforms, more than any other train station in the world, and has shown up time and again in movies and television.

On the palatial Main Concourse tilt your head back to see the mural of night sky constellations from 1912 by Paul César Helleu, and the ten Beaux-Arts chandeliers, each weighing 360kg and holding 110 bulbs.

Most emblematic is the information booth, crowned with a clock, each face of which is made from mesmerising opalescent glass.

15. Top of the Rock

Top of the Rock, NYC

The 1930s Art Deco skyscraper at 30 Rockefeller Plaza may have the best view of the Manhattan skyline from its outdoor observation deck at just below 260 metres over the Midtown streets.

Dubbed Top of the Rock, this sophisticated space was designed like the deck of an ocean liner.

Despite being 60 metres lower than the Empire State, many people prefer this experience.

There’s a timed entry system, which combined with the larger observation deck makes for shorter queues.

Naturally, the views encompass the Empire State in all its glory, as well as the Midtown and downtown skyscrapers, but also a big sweep of Central Park.

Book online:  Top of the Rock Observation Deck Ticket

16. 5.5-Hour New York City Tour

New York City

If time is of the essence you can condense the city into a half-day odyssey, weaving past nearly all of New York’s main sights from the comfort of a bus.

Starting at Central Park West and ending on Herald Square in Midtown, the trip will be narrated and make regular pauses for photos, and nine stops to step out for a better look.

You’ll get to see the Upper West Side, Harlem, much of Fifth Avenue, Midtown, Little Italy, China Town, Brooklyn, Wall Street and the Meatpacking District, before stopping for lunch at the Chelsea Market.

The highly-rated 5.5-Hour New York City Tour can be found on GetYourGuide.Com and can be conducted in English, Spanish, Italian or German.

17. Guggenheim Museum

Guggenheim Museum

A celebrated museum of course, but also an epoch-making work of 20th-century architecture, the Guggenheim Museum is essential for its dumbfounding design, collection of Impressionist and early modern art, and for its world-class temporary exhibitions.

Frank Lloyd Wright’s building is yet another icon, tearing up the museum script by inviting visitors to catch an elevator to the top and then make their way down the ramp that coils around the atrium.

This opened in 1959, but the collection, enriched with names like Chagall, Kandinsky, Mondrian, Kirchner, Franz Marc, Fernand Léger and Cézanne, goes back more than eight decades and continues to grow.

18. New York Public Library

New York Public Library

Like so many of the entries on this list the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, the main branch of the New York Public Library, is a landmark that you’ll recognise in an instant.

This is a holdover from the first age of philanthropy at the turn of the 20th century, and belongs to the second largest public library system in the country, and the third largest in the world.

The marble Beaux-Arts facade in Midtown on Fifth Avenue has pairs of Corinthian columns, topped by a frieze and giving way to barrel vaults.

Flanking the steps there’s a pair of lions, which are an emblem for the whole library system.

This monument holds world-renowned collections in the humanities, fine arts and social sciences, and schedules free guided tours Monday to Saturday at 11:00 and 14:00. Also visit for a special exhibition; for example, in spring 2019 there was a display exploring some of the inspirations for Walt Whitman’s work, and a show to mark the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Riots, which helped pave the way for the gay liberation movement.

19. Bryant Park

Bryant Park, Midtown Manhattan, New York

Bounded to the east by the New York Public Library Main Branch, Bryant Park is actually set on top of the library’s stacks, after an underground level was built during a restoration in the 1980s.

The park’s current layout is from that time, and became a symbol for the revival of New York’s image in the 1990s, shedding its reputation for prostitution and drug dealing.

More than 30 years later Bryant Park is adored for its sense of calm, and is held up as a piece of urban regeneration.

There’s a movie night on Mondays in the summer, and by day you’ll see people playing chess, ping-pong or pétanque, and taking part in free classes in anything from yoga to tai chi and juggling.

There are promenades hemmed by London planes, and several places to grab coffee, a pastry or something more substantial.

The Reading Room is a Depression-era relic, reopened as a literary destination in 2003, and in the build-up to Christmas the Bank of America Winter Village brings a rink and a sprinkle of seasonal magic to the park.

20. The Met Cloisters

The Met Cloisters

Posted on a hill up in Fort Tryon Park is a museum for European Medieval art and architecture, managed by the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

The museum was established in 1938, in a haunting neo-Romanesque building designed by Charles Collens, built from European limestone and granite.

Inside are some 5,000 pieces, from the early days of the Byzantine Empire to the beginning of the Renaissance.

The showpiece on the south side are the Cuxa cloisters, dating from the 11th and 12th centuries and brought from the Abbey of Saint-Michel-de-Cuxa.

All of the columns and intricately carved capitals here are original.

The Saint-Guilhem (800s-1600s), Bonnefont (1100s) and Trie (1400s and 1500s) cloisters are also breathtaking.

Inside marvellous architectural stonework, stained glass, effigies and frescoes await at the Gothic Chapel, Fuentidueña chapel, Langon Chapel and Romanesque Hall.

The Treasury Room contains smaller delights, like illuminated manuscripts, fine enamel, a 13th-century French reliquary and a deck of cards from the 1400s.

21. Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration

Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration

The point of arrival for 12 million immigrants to the United States between 1892 and 1954, Ellis Island is a short boat trip via Statue Cruises at Battery Park.

To give you an idea of the importance of this site, the descendants of these immigrants account for nearly half of the entire population of the United States.

Dating to 1900, the main building of the immigration station complex houses the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration.

Just outside, the Wall of Honour lists some of the people to have been processed here.

Within the Renaissance Revival building there’s a wealth of information panels, artefacts, photographs, videos, oral histories and interactive stations.

The audio tour has more than 120 hours worth of content, going into detail on what it was like to pass through Ellis Island, how America was populated in the 19th and 20th centuries, and immigration in the present day.

Included in : Statue of Liberty Pedestal, Ellis Island and Pre-Ferry Tour

22. Fifth Avenue

Fifth Avenue, NYC

Just like Broadway is synonymous with musical theatre, Fifth Avenue means luxury and prestige.

New York’s most refined artery is the eastern boundary to Central Park and cuts past a staggering amount of things on this list, be it the Empire State Building or the Frick Collection.

There are specific stretches that demand a visit, like the park-side blocks between 59th and 96th Street.

By the dawn of the 20th century this strip was known as Millionaire’s Row, and has some of the most opulent residences in the city.

From 82nd to 105th Streets is Museum Mile, loaded with nine prestigious museums almost side by side, including The Met and the Guggenheim.

And further down, between 49th and 60th Street, Fifth Avenue is given over to flagship luxury emporia for Tiffany & Co., Cartier, Prada and the like.

Included in : New York City Day Tour with One World Observatory

23. Metropolitan Opera House

Metropolitan Opera House

New York lays claim to the largest repertory opera house in the world.

Part of the Lincoln Center, the Met, for short, seats around 3,800 at an extraordinary Modernist building raised in the mid-1960s.

This is one of the most advanced opera venues in the world, with a system of hydraulic elevators and motorised stages able to put on four different operas a week, including epic productions like Wagner’s Der Ring des Nibelungen and Verdi’s Aida.

The auditorium’s ceiling is coated with more than 4,000 squares of gold leaf in a petal motif, suspending 21 crystal chandeliers.

The opera season runs from autumn to spring, and Porgy & Bess, Madama Butterfly, La Bohème, The Flying Dutchman and The Magic Flute were a few of the 2019-20 season highlights.

Following on, the American Ballet Theatre then has an eight-week spring season at the Met.

24. Tenement Museum

Tenement Museum, NYC

Between 1863 and 2011 some 15,000 people from more than 20 nations lived at the two tenement buildings at 97 and 103 Orchard Street on the Lower East Side.

The Tenement Museum lifts the lid on their lives and the wider immigration experience.

No. 97 has barely changed since 1935. Up to that time, plumbing, gas, electricity and running water had been added, but rather than make further changes to bring the building up to code, the landlord evicted all the residents from the upper storeys, sealing these floors up until they were rediscovered in 1988. You can visit 97 and 103 on a variety of guided tours, making your way through recreated apartments, learning intimate details about the families who arrived here hoping to make their way in a new country.

25. Brooklyn Heights

Brooklyn Heights, NYC

Known for its leafy streets and dignified brownstone rowhouses, Brooklyn Heights is the upmarket neighbourhood south of the Brooklyn Bridge.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by Manhattan’s skyscrapers you can idle here among the low-rise buildings, home to celebrities now and in the mid-20th century when Marilyn Monroe and Truman Capote were residents.

Amble along the Brooklyn Promenade, which has a view across the East River to match any in the city, encompassing Liberty Island, the Brooklyn Bridge and cityscape of Lower Manhattan.

This walkway was conceived as a buffer to the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway, which arrived on the waterfront in 1950. You can make a day of it in Brooklyn Heights at the riveting New York Transit Museum on Schermerhorn Street, and continue up to the brand new Brooklyn Bridge Park.

Available tour : Brooklyn Bridge, Brooklyn Heights, NYC Sightseeing Bike Tour

26. Coney Island

Coney Island, Brooklyn

This former barrier island in the south-western corner of Brooklyn became a peninsula at the turn of the 20th century.

For decades before that time, Coney Island has been a seaside escape for New Yorkers.

And although the waterfront had a prolonged downturn from the 1960s onwards, it has been revitalised today, while keeping some of its scruffy appeal.

A real stalwart here is the Coney Island Cyclone, now at the Luna Park.

This is one of the oldest functioning wooden rollercoasters, first opened in 1927, and hitting speeds of 60 mph after the first 26-metre climb.

Another abiding attraction is the Wonder Wheel at Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park, standing since 1920, and giving you clear views of the Manhattan skyline, Brooklyn’s beaches and east along the Rockaway Peninsula.

27. Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

The aircraft carrier USS Intrepid (1943), which served in the Pacific during the Second World War, surviving five kamikaze attacks, was rescued from scrapping in 1978 and in 1982 found a permanent home at Pier 86 off 46th Street.

This is the centrepiece of a museum for US military and maritime history, allowing you to pore over the inner workings of a WWII-era aircraft carrier, but also view a serious collection of other vessels and aircraft.

One of the highlights, the USS Growler (1958) is the only American guided missile submarine open to the public, while the BA Concorde at Pier 86 broke the Concorde’s transatlantic crossing record in 1996. In the Space Shuttle Pavilion you can view the Enterprise, the prototype Space Shuttle orbiter, rolled out in 1976.

Book online: Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum: Priority Access Tickets

28. Prospect Park

Prospect Park Boathouse

Brooklyn’s 526-acre Prospect Park is a beautiful place to get lost, dotted with historic buildings, little attractions and sports facilities, all on a hilly terminal moraine from the last Ice Age.

Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, the men behind Central Park, Prospect Park took shape during the 1860s, and has a ceremonious entrance to the north, on the Grand Army Plaza, via the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Arch (1892). New buildings were being added well into the early 20th century.

One of these is the elegant Boathouse on the Lullwater (1905), a channel of the park’s lake.

Smaller visitors will be besotted with the farmyard animals, red pandas, otters and tamarins at the 130-year-old Prospect Park Zoo, while the park’s carousel has been turning since 1912. The Ravine is a beautiful piece of 19th-century landscaping, resembling the wilderness of the Adirondacks, while the Long Meadow is a mile-long strip of undulating greenery for picnics and a little peace.

29. Battery Park

Battery Park

This small-ish park at the southern tip of Manhattan looks out over the Upper New York Bay, and is one of the best places in the city to watch the sun go down.

The Staten Island Ferry departs just next door and you can make the voyage to Ellis Island and Liberty Island here, or just sit and gaze at the Statue of Liberty by day or in lights.

Battery Park gets its name from the coastal gun emplacements that used to be on this spot, and among the flowerbeds, lawns, ornamental shrubs and an urban farm there are a few monuments to pique your curiosity.

One is the Netherland Monument, raised in 1926 to mark the tercentenary of New Amsterdam.

Another is the Sphere, a 1971 sculpture by Fritz Koenig that stood in the middle of the plaza of the World Trade Centre, and was relocated here in its damaged state in 2002. The Hope Garden remembers the victims of the AIDS crisis, while a few paces north on the Bowling Green is Wall Street’s famous Charging Bull.

30. Greenwich Village

Greenwich Village, NYC

This neighbourhood of 19th century townhouses on tree-lined streets spent much of the last century diverting from the mainstream.

Then Greenwich Village’s bars and cafes harboured the city’s beatniks and then hippies, and its nascent LBGTQ community.

Café Society, the first racially integrated nightclub in the United States, opened here in 1938. Just the name Greenwich Village recalls beat writers like Jack Kerouac and William S.

Burroughs, but also other literary heavyweights like James Baldwin and Dylan Thomas, who died in 1953 soon after a drinking session in the White Horse Tavern.

Sky-high real estate prices have put an end to Greenwich Village’s bohemian days, but make the pilgrimage to a place that gave a start to Bob Dylan and the Velvet Underground.

Suggested tour : New York City: Greenwich Village 2-Hour Tour

31. Whitney Museum of American Art

Whitney Museum of American Art

In 2014 the foremost museum for 20th-century and contemporary art in the United States relocated to a Renzo Piano-designed building in the West Village/Meat Packing District.

The Whitney Museum of American Art’s collection runs to more than 20,000 works, by hundreds of renowned artists, among them Alexander Calder, Georgia O’Keefe, Jackson Pollock, Andy Warhol, Edward Hopper and Helen Frankenthaler.

In 1932, the museum’s founder, Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney launched the Whitney Biennial.

Almost 90 years later, this is still a landmark event in the United States’ cultural scene, introducing new talent and mapping the latest developments in American contemporary art.

Book online: Whitney Museum of American Art: Day Ticket

32. Flatiron Building

Flatiron Building

On Fifth Avenue at the downtown end of Madison Square is one of those New York sights etched into the world’s consciousness.

This wedge-shaped Renaissance Revival skyscraper, named for its resemblance to a clothes iron, was one of the tallest buildings in the city when it was completed in 1902. The Flatiron Building stands just shy of 87 metres and sits neatly on a triangular block caused by Broadway.

As well as being a sight to kindle some Manhattan romance, the Flatiron Building has a small gallery, the Flatiron Prow Artspace.

This is run by the ground floor tenant, Sprint, and hosts exhibitions centred on sustainability and eco-friendly technology.

A few steps away is the capacious indoor market/dining destination, Eataly Flatiron, an ode to Italian cuisine

Suggested tour : Flatiron Food, History & Architecture Tour

33. Union Square

Union Square, NYC

The name, Union Square, has nothing to do with the Civil War, as you might think, but comes from the location, where the thoroughfares Broadway and Bowery Road (now Fourth Avenue) are united.

Given its central position, Union Square has been a gathering point for protests and demonstration since it was laid out in the 1830s.

On the south side is the massive public art installation, Metronome, with LED clock, while among the park’s monuments are Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi sculpture of Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette for the Centennial in 1876, and imposing statues of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln by Henry Kirke Brown.

The Union Square Greenmarket, served by regional farmers, trades here on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 08:00 to 18:00 all year.

This is one of the best places to get fresh produce in New York, while you can come for Christmas handicrafts at the Holiday Market from the end of November.

34. Frick Collection

The Frick Collection, NYC

As soon as he made his fortune the Pittsburgh coke and steel industrialist Henry Clay Frick (1849-1919) started investing in art, amassing an exceptional assortment of Old Masters and high-quality decorative arts.

This collection, along with a sprawling Neoclassical mansion built in 1913, was bequeathed as a public museum when he passed away.

The residence was adapted into a museum by feted architect John Russell Pope, and at its heart is the refined Garden Court, framed by pairs of Ionic columns and symmetrical bedding.

There’s extraordinary painting, by Vermeer, Fragonard, Velázquez, Turner, Goya, Titian, Rembrandt, El Greco and Hans Holbein the Younger, as well as Limoges enamel, Oriental rugs, porcelain, silverware sculpture and 18th-century French furniture.

35. American Museum of Natural History

American Museum of Natural History, NYC

Expertly curated, and constantly finding creative and engaging ways to display its vast inventory of specimens, the American Museum of Natural History is on a jaw-dropping scale.

On four floors there are 45 permanent exhibition halls in 28 interconnected buildings.

Many of the collections are the largest in the world in their fields, so you can indulge your interest in even the most obscure subcategories of zoology, botany, geology, mineralogy and anthropology.

Children will be transfixed by the Fossil Halls, particularly the Koch Dinosaur Wing, displaying just a tantalising fraction of the museum’s collections but staggering all the same.

In the Millstein Family Hall of Ocean Life you’ll be met by a life-sized replica of a blue whale, swooping from the ceiling and almost 30 metres long.

The Rose Center for Earth and Space holds the Hayden Planetarium in an enormous sphere, while the museum’s own IMAX theater presents eye-popping 2D and 3D films.

Get tickets : American Museum of Natural History Tickets

36. Washington Square Park

Washington Square Park, NYC

At the very bottom of Fifth Avenue and fringed by New York University, the youthful Washington Square Park is somewhere to forget the city for a while.

In the 1950s and 60s beatniks and hippies would gather here, often to the chagrin of Greenwich Village’s working class residents and the New York City Police Department.

That bohemian spirit endures today in the park’s line-up of talented street performers and buskers.

In the south-west corner you can watch some intense chess matches (Stanley Kubrick was a regular in his youth), while the triumphal Washington Square Arch at the end of Fifth Avenue was put up in 1892 to mark the centenary of George Washington’s inauguration.

37. New York City Helicopter Tour

New York City Helicopter Adventure

No matter how high the observation deck, you may come away feeling like there’s a patch of Manhattan that you wanted to see from above but could not.

There might not be a cityscape more suited to a helicopter tour than New York, so it’s little wonder that there’s an abundance of options with GetYourGuide.com .

To single out one, the New York City Deluxe Helicopter Tour affords the ultimate views of the Hudson River, the Chrysler Building, the Brooklyn Bridge, Ellis Island, The Statue of Liberty, the New York Harbour and USS Intrepid.

Taking off from the heliport at Pier 6, this flight lasts 15-30 minutes but will give you memories to last a lifetime.

38. Madison Square Garden

Madison Square Garden

Dubbed the World’s Most Famous Arena, Madison Square Garden is the home of the New York Knicks and New York Rangers, and still finds time to be the second busiest arena in the world in terms of concert sales.

The Garden has recently completed its second renovation, costing an eye-watering $1bn and taking place across three off seasons.

At the time of writing in 2019 the Knicks were at their nadir, slumping to the very bottom of the Eastern Conference, but you may be keen to relive the 90s when Patrick Ewing was in his prime and the team reached two finals.

Or you might just want to find out about how this ultramodern arena works on the new All Access Tour.

This departs every half-hour (limited hours on Knicks days), and a knowledgeable guide will lead you on a 75-minute journey around all the nooks and crannies.

Recommended tour : Madison Square Garden All Access Tour Ticket

39. Radio City Music Hall

Radio City Music Hall, NYC

Part of the Rockefeller Center is this iconic Art Deco live entertainment venue that opened in 1932, hosting major concerts, awards ceremonies and live broadcasts of TV shows.

From the outside the Radio City Music Hall is unmistakeable for its long marquee sign on the corner of 6th Avenue and 50th street, and the seven-storey signs on 6th Avenue.

It might be enough to stop by and grab a photo of these signs, but if you want to walk the halls of the “Showplace of the Nation” the Madison Square Garden Group gives tours, revealing the history of the famed Great Stage, getting you up close to exquisite Art Deco details and maybe giving you a chance to meet a member of the resident dance troupe, the Rockettes.

40. St Patrick’s Cathedral

St Patrick's Cathedral, NYC

Occupying an entire city block, this neo-Gothic wonder was visited by Pope Francis in 2015 after coming through a three-year, $177m restoration.

St Patrick’s Cathedral (1878) is in the Decorated Gothic style and composed of brick clad with radiant Tuckahoe marble.

The twin spires facing Fifth Avenue are just over 100 metres tall, while the combined nave and choir measures 101.2 metres between the two avenues.

You can enter for free, taking in the opulent statuary in the many side chapels, as well as the St Michael and St Louis altars (by Tiffany & Co.), the enormous Pietà, the magnificent rose window, the ribbed vaulting and the spectacular wood casing of the Gallery Organ, dedicated in 1930.

SoHo, NYC

Once upon a time, SoHo, meaning “South of Houston Street”, was a working class area of factories and tenements.

In the 1970s artists moved into the lofts of old factories, at a time when these manufacturing spaces weren’t zoned as residences and lacked many of the basic amenities of homes.

SoHo’s time as a quarter of studios and galleries didn’t last, as the historic architecture, cobblestone streets and gritty charm soon attracted the ultra-rich, and the neighbourhood is now more about boutiques, fine dining and snazzy bars.

SoHo’s story defined the gentrification template, as the “SoHo Effect”. Pay a visit for the finer things, and to admire the largest array of cast-iron buildings in the world, dating from 1840 to 1880.

Recommended tour: SoHo, Little Italy, and Chinatown 2-Hour Guided Walk

42. Chelsea

Chelsea, NYC

What used to be in Greenwich Village and SoHo can currently be found among the tenements, townhouses, rowhouses and converted factories of Chelsea on Manhattan’s West Side.

Gentrification is squeezing this neighbourhood too, but there are still hundreds of cutting-edge galleries and a sizeable LBTGQ community.

Chelsea is one of the best places to go out in Manhattan, with loads of bars and clubs, especially in the Meatpacking District.

For yet more fresh and daring culture there’s a helping of Off-Broadway theatres in Chelsea, while the neighbourhood is a fashion-forward shopper’s idea of heaven.

Make the pilgrimage to the Chelsea Hotel, reopened after long-term renovations in 2019, and made famous by its countless mentions in popular culture and the scores of cultural figures who have stayed here.

43. United Nations Headquarters

United Nations Headquarters, NYC

After a plot had been chosen by the East River for the headquarters of the newly founded United Nations, an international dream team of design consultants was put together, among them Oscar Niemeyer and Le Corbusier.

Wallace Harrison’s final design was a blend of Le Corbusier and Niemeyer’s plans, and has been integral to the Manhattan cityscape since 1952. All of the main organs of the UN are seated here, including the Security Council and 193-nation General Assembly, except for the Hague’s International Court of Justice.

The Visitor Centre is open every day of the week, although guided tours are only given Monday to Friday.

These last an hour and, depending on the schedule, take you into the famed General Assembly, Security Council and Economic and Social Council, while showing some of the many artworks gifted to the UN like the Norman Rockwell Mosaic and the Zanetti Mural.

44. Cooper-Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum

 Cooper-Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum

America’s design museum can be found by Central Park on the Museum Mile.

This institution goes back to 1897, and in 1970 moved into its current venue, the Georgian-style Andrew Carnegie Mansion (1902). The tycoon and philanthropist resided here until his death in 1919, while his wife Louise would remain until she passed away in 1946. A seven-year upgrade, completed in 2015, has elevated the Cooper-Hewitt to must-see status.

Complementing the museum’s extensive collections in decorative arts and the broader concept design are creative interactive features.

At the start you’ll be given a kind of electronic stylus, so you can mark anything that catches your eye, saving it to a personalised website.

The Immersion Room meanwhile gives you digital access to the museum’s vast inventory of wallpaper, and allows you to come up with your own designs to be projected on the walls.

45. Brooklyn Bridge Park

Brooklyn Bridge Park

As of 2019 this park project, revitalising 1.3 miles of Brooklyn’s post-industrial waterfront, is pretty much completed and a fitting end to a trek across the Brooklyn Bridge.

The Brooklyn Bridge Park has been more than a decade in the making, transforming Brooklyn Piers 1-6 and reclaiming land on the East River with soil from the construction of the new World Trade Center.

There are multiple sports facilities, playgrounds for children and loads of places to eat, both in the park and nearby.

But it’s the river and views (the sunset is amazing) that make the Brooklyn Bridge Park, with a continuous promenade from Pier 1 to 6, hemmed by smart landscaping, as well as salt marsh and tidepools to attract wildlife.

46. Morningside Heights

Morningside Heights

North-west of Central Park and bordering on Harlem, Morningside Heights is a neighbourhood of striking monuments and big academic, religious and cultural institutions.

The most august of these has to be Columbia University, founded in 1754 and the fifth-oldest institution of higher education in the United States.

Since 1902 the university has administered the Pulitzer Prize.

Make a detour to check out the dome and Ionic columns of the Neoclassical Butler Library.

Elsewhere, Riverside Park holds Grant’s Tomb, the final resting place of 18th President Ulysses S.

Grant (1822-1885), while Sakura Park is so-called for its thousands of cherry trees (blooming in April), donated in 1912 by the Committee of Japanese Residents of New York.

Lastly, the Cathedral of Saint John the Divine is the fifth largest Christian church in the world, at more than 180 metres long and 70 metres wide.

Work began in 1892 but this monument is still unfinished.

47. New York Botanical Garden

New York Botanical Garden

In lush parkland over 250 acres, the New York Botanical Garden grows more than a million individual plants in 50 different spaces and collections.

This is a leading botanical institution, conducting research and conservation programmes that employ 600 staff.

For visitors there are lots of delights, like a tract of the old growth forest that covered all of New York before it was settled by Europeans in the 17th century.

Never logged, this grows white ash, birch, tulip, cherry and American beech trees.

A sight to behold is the beautiful Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, built with a wrought iron frame in the 1890s and hosting a glorious orchid show every spring.

You can saunter around a Japanese Rock Garden, 37 acres of conifers, wetlands, a herb garden and the magical Peggy Rockefeller Rose Garden.

Book online : New York Botanical Garden: All-Garden Pass Ticket

48. Chrysler Building

Chrysler Building, NYC

An Art Deco tower of startling and delicate beauty, the Chrysler Building (1930) has an allure that sets it apart from New York’s other skyscrapers.

For 11 months until the Empire State Building was topped off, this was the tallest building in the world, standing at 319 metres.

It was ordered by the automobile tycoon Walter Chrysler, and was the career apogee of architect William van Alen.

The tower is iconic for the tiered arches and triangular windows of its lustrous stainless steel crown, above eagle motif gargoyles on the 61st floor.

The best way to see the crown is to scale the Empire State Building, but there are clear lines of sight along Lexington Avenue, from the foot of the tower on 42 Street down to Gramercy Park on 21st.

If you’re feeling bold go in to take a peek at the sumptuous lobby, with floors made of travertine from Siena, granite from Africa on the walls and regal Art Deco light fittings.

See it from above : New York City Deluxe Helicopter Tour

49. Yankee Stadium

Yankee Stadium

The old Yankee Stadium may be dead and gone, but its $2.3bn replacement, unveiled in 2009, has revived many classic design features and gives you pristine views from every seat.

The facade is bare Indiana limestone, which was painted over at the old stadium, while the roof of the new venue is adorned with the iconic frieze present from 1923 to 1973. If you’re in town between April and October you’ll have ample opportunity to catch a ballgame at Yankee stadium as the there are 81 home games in a MLB regular season, and general seating tickets go for as little as $14. Be prepared to fork out a lot more for a dog or pretzel though! In the stadium’s concourse, between the exterior wall and the arena, is the Great Hall, with ceiling seven storeys high and giant sporting Yankee greats like Babe Ruth, Joe DiMaggio and Mickey Mantle.

Arrive early to visit the stadium’s open-air museum at Monument Park, crackling with 120 years of history.

50. Chelsea Market

Chelsea Market, NYC

If you had to narrow down New York’s cornucopia of food halls to just one, you could do worse than Chelsea Market.

For starters, food history has already been made at this former Nabisco factory (1895), as the Oreo cookie was invented right here.

With a selection of speciality food shops and a high-end supermarket with deli counter and butcher, Chelsea Market is a place to shop, but it’s the eateries that draw the crowds.

There are upwards of 35 vendors, like Los Tacos No. 1, aptly named because it makes the best tacos in the city, Chelsea Creamline for American classics, Num Pang preparing Cambodian-style sandwiches or the crêperie Bar Suzette.

The Lobster Place is a wholesale seafood market with its own sushi bar, also operating the Cull & Pistol for oysters and lobster.

Available tour: New York City High Line and Chelsea Market Walking Tour

51. Bronx Zoo

Bronx Zoo Entrance

A great partner to the New York Botanical Garden, the Bronx Zoo is the largest urban zoo in the country, spread out over 265 acres and keeping some 5,000 animals.

Like the best 21st-century zoos, the Bronx Zoo is conservation-oriented, but animal protection is this attraction’s DNA, as the first director William Temple Hornaday strove to save the American Bison from extinction in the early 20th century.

At more than a century old, there’s some lovely old architecture at the Bronx Zoo, like the Beaux-Arts Zoo Center (1908), housing monitor lizards, and with outdoor enclosures for white rhinos, komodo dragons and giant tortoises.

General admission will grant you access to a host of exhibits, like Tiger Mountain, the Sea Lion Pool, Congo Gorilla Forest, Baboon Reserve and a whole load more.

Some special exhibits and attractions require an extra fee, like a Butterfly Garden, 4D Theater, Zoo Shuttle and Wild Asia Monorail.

52. Chinatown

Chinatown, NYC

One enclave still going strong in the face of gentrification is Chinatown.

Seriously, if you didn’t know better, the gridlock, sudden bustle, cadence of Cantonese conversation, and street signs and awnings with Chinese characters might make you think you’re on a different continent entirely.

Manhattan’s Chinatown, ringed by TriBeCa, the former Little Italy, the Lower East Side and Civic Center, is no longer the largest Chinese enclave in New York, as that honour has gone to Flushing Chinatown in Queens.

But it has the highest concentration of Chinese people in the Western Hemisphere and is a dumbfounding change of pace in Lower Manhattan.

The fishmongers and greengrocers around Canal Street, East Broadway, Mott Street and Mulberry Street are perpetually eye-opening.

Recommended tour : SoHo, Little Italy, and Chinatown 2-Hour Guided Walk

53. South Street Seaport

South Street Seaport

Just down from the Brooklyn Bridge on the Manhattan side is a an area that has witnessed a lot of recent change, even by New York’s dizzying standards.

In the 17th century this was New York’s original port, where the city’s early economy first flourished and where the city’s clippers docked in the 19th century.

The Seaport is a designated historic district, home to some of downtown Manhattan’s oldest buildings in a little cobblestone grid made up of Fulton Street, Front Street and Water Street.

Take Fulton Street’s Schermerhorn Row Block, a terrace of Federal style houses dating from 1811-12. The South Street Seaport Museum here tracks the growth of New York into a port for the world with collections of nauticalia, and a small fleet of sailboats out front, like the Lettie G.

Howard schooner from 1893. South Street Seaport’s heritage has been protected, and is joined by new architecture like Pier 17 redeveloped as a culinary and retail centre, hosting big outdoor events.

54. Smorgasburg

Smorgasburg

From April to November, the largest weekly food market in America pulls in as many as 30,000 people to Brooklyn every weekend.

The main trading spots are at the East River Park in Williamsburg on Saturdays, and Breeze Hill in Prospect Park on Sundays.

There’s also a smaller fair every Friday at the World Trade Center’s Oculus Plaza, from 11:30 to 19:00. With more than 100 vendors at the two Brooklyn locations, it would be impossible to sum up all the discoveries you could make.

But to tickle the tastebuds, there’s Maine lobster fresh off the grill on a bed of noodles (Lobsterdamus), Brooklyn-style poutine (Duck Season), the famed spaghetti donut (Pop Pasta), blueberry crumble ice cream sandwiches (Good Batch) or deep-fried cookie dough (Big Mozz). Bring cash as most of the vendors don’t take cards.

55. New York Harbour and Statue of Liberty Evening Cruise

NYC Evening Cruise

Downtown New York is stunning from the water by day, but the sight of the harbour and skyline at night is one of those experiences that will stay with you long after you’ve gone home.

GetYourGuide.com has an hour-long cruise after sunset, with running commentary imparting titbits you might not have known.

The cruise departs from Pier 16 at South Street Seaport, and arcs around Lower Manhattan to take in the Statue of Liberty, the forest of skyscrapers including the likes of One World Trade Center, and then under the Brooklyn Bridge and up as far as the Empire State Building.

55 Best Things to Do in New York City (New York):

  • The Metropolitan Museum of Art
  • Central Park
  • National 9/11 Memorial and Museum
  • Empire State Building
  • Statue of Liberty
  • The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
  • Rockefeller Center
  • Brooklyn Bridge
  • One World Trade Center Observatory
  • Staten Island Ferry
  • Times Square
  • Grand Central Terminal
  • Top of the Rock
  • 5.5-Hour New York City Tour
  • Guggenheim Museum
  • New York Public Library
  • Bryant Park
  • The Met Cloisters
  • Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration
  • Fifth Avenue
  • Metropolitan Opera House
  • Tenement Museum
  • Brooklyn Heights
  • Coney Island
  • Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
  • Prospect Park
  • Battery Park
  • Greenwich Village
  • Whitney Museum of American Art
  • Flatiron Building
  • Union Square
  • Frick Collection
  • American Museum of Natural History
  • Washington Square Park
  • New York City Helicopter Tour
  • Madison Square Garden
  • Radio City Music Hall
  • St Patrick's Cathedral
  • United Nations Headquarters
  • Cooper-Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum
  • Brooklyn Bridge Park
  • Morningside Heights
  • New York Botanical Garden
  • Chrysler Building
  • Yankee Stadium
  • Chelsea Market
  • South Street Seaport
  • Smorgasburg
  • New York Harbour and Statue of Liberty Evening Cruise
  • State of New York
  • New York City
  • United States

99 Best Tourist Attractions in New York City

best tourist attractions in New York City

They say All roads lead to Rome — clearly, they were taking the wrong roads, because, in this modern era, all roads lead to the magnificent multicultural melting pot that is New York City; the skyscraping concrete jungle and the behemoth of a tourist magnet that is the infamous the Big Apple.

Beckoning tens of millions of travelers year after year, this dense, diverse, and dearly beloved metropolis is overflowing with excitement, delivering entertainment of all kinds around every corner — you could live in the Big Apple for a decade and still only uncover a sliver of its magic.

But if you’re only going to visit for a few days, how on Earth are you supposed to know which attractions to prioritize? Fear not, intrepid traveler! We’ve got your back with our list of the 99 best tourist attractions in New York City .

From top-notch museums like The Metropolitan Museum of Art and the American Museum of Natural History, to awe-inspiring architecture including the Empire State Building and Grand Central Terminal, to world-famous green spaces like Central Park and Bryant Park, there’s something for everyone in this city that never sleeps (and really doesn’t stop moving either).

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your NYC adventure today !

1 – Statue of Liberty

Statue of Liberty, New York City

There’s no denying that the Statue of Liberty is one of the most iconic and photographed landmarks in all of New York City , so it would be a sin to leave without paying this UNESCO World Heritage Site a visit.

Acting as a symbol of freedom and democracy ever since she was first unveiled in 1886 as a gift from the people of France to the United States, this neoclassical beauty towers 151 feet from toe to torch, or over 300 feet high if you include its base — and while it can certainly be appreciated from the water on one of the many boat tours in the area , to stand in her shadow, admire her crown, and climb the statue itself delivers another spectacular perspective.

Ferries to Liberty Island (where Lady Liberty stands) run regularly from both Battery Park and Liberty State Park in Jersey City, so there’s no excuse to exclude this beauty from your list! And, if you’re looking to save a few bucks, the Staten Island ferry runs around the clock from Downtown Manhattan, providing postcard-worthy (and totally free) views of both Lady Liberty and the lower skyline .

  • Statue of Liberty tours

See also: Statue of Liberty Last Minute Tickets – It’s not Sold out!

2 – Metropolitan Museum of Art

Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York City

Looking for the best museums in New York City ? Arguably the world’s most renowned museum (although the Louvre would certainly throw its hat in the ring), the Met is a New York icon and one of the “must-dos” on any first-time trip to NYC.

Housing over two million pieces of art from around the world , this vast museum in Central Park has everything from Egyptian hieroglyphics to European masterpieces by Picasso, Monet, Van Gogh and more — not to mention its famous sculptures like The Winged Victory of Samothrace (aka Nike), who, despite being headless, stands guard at the top of a grand staircase.

It goes without saying that an afternoon exploring such a place could easily be turned into days as you wander through countless halls filled with centuries’ worth of artwork, so if you want to really get your money’s worth it’s best to take a guided tour .

The Met is open from Sunday to Thursday from nine in the morning until five at night (note: except for Wednesday), and on Friday and Saturday from nine in the morning until nine at night if you’re on the hunt for an evening of culture — so there’s plenty of time to squeeze it into your itinerary!

  • Metropolitan Museum of Art tickets

See also: Fun things to do in New York City at night

3 – Rockefeller Center

Rockefeller Center, New York City

A Midtown beacon of entertainment, shopping, and tourists that takes up an entire city block, Rockefeller Center is one of the most famous landmarks in all of New York City and a must on any first-time trip to the Big Apple.

Built between 1930 and 1940, this iconic destination is a hub of activity year-round and is one of the most popular places in New York City to snap a selfie — especially around Christmas time when their famous ice rink opens up for skaters and thousands flock into town for some holiday magic under the infamous giant tree!

However, even if you don’t make it during the winter months (or can’t stand that freezing NYC wind chill) there’s still plenty to do at Rockefeller Center!

With multiple works of art dotted throughout its grounds such as Prometheus outside 30 Rock, plus killer views from the Top of the Rock observation deck , plenty of entertainment and souvenirs at the Radio City Music Hal or NBC studios (see if you can snag a ticket to a live show!) and world-class shopping , this grandiose Art Deco complex has a slice of every pie.

4 – Central Park

Central Park in New York City

A green oasis smack-dab in the heart of the concrete jungle, Central Park is one of the most famous public parks in the world and an undeniable New York City staple.

Created in 1857, this massive park stretches from Midtown all the way up to Harlem and covers more than 800 acres (or around twice the size of London’s Hyde Park) — meaning there’s plenty of room to wander, explore, and relax amongst nature without ever having to leave Manhattan.

Walking trails and expansive lawns aside, you’ll be spoiled for choice for things to do in Central Park : the area is home to a variety of different attractions such as The Metropolitan Museum of Art at its eastern edge or the Museum of Natural History on its western edge (both unmissable Manhattan museums), Alice in Wonderland statue near 72nd street, Belvedere Castle on Vista Rock, the Shakespeare Garden , the cute-as-a-button snapping turtles in turtle lake, the vintage Carousel , Strawberry Fields (a memorial to John Lennon) and more — not to mention countless food carts, sports fields, street performers, and horse-drawn carriages.

There’s no doubt about it: Central Park is a New York City icon that should be on every visitor’s itinerary! With so much to see, the classic way to explore is by bike ! Rent your own and discover the park at your own pace or join a guided tour if you’d prefer someone else do the navigating.

  • Central Park tours

5 – Grand Central Terminal

Grand Central Terminal, New York City

Made famous through an endless list of cinematic appearances over the decades , Grand Central Terminal is a train station that’s just as much of an attraction as it is a functional transportation hub.

Completed in 1913, this beaux-arts beauty dominates Midtown Manhattan and has been a crossroads for millions upon millions of New York City locals and tourists alike, housing 44 platforms – more than any other station in the world.

Besides its impressive size and architecture, not to mention the astronomical mural which dons the cavernous main concourse roof, Grand Central is also home to a vast array of shops, restaurants, and bars – perfect for grabbing a bite or taking a break from all the sightseeing. And if you’re feeling up for it, be sure to check out the whispering gallery on the lower level!

6 – Helicopter Tours

helicopter tours in New York City

Ready to snap that jealousy-evoking Instagram shot? There’s no better way to do it than with a helicopter tour of New York City — where unrivaled bird’s eye views await.

Usually departing from the Downtown Manhattan Heliport (although there are a few spots around the Big Apple, so you can typically find something close to where you’re staying), you’ll soar above some of the city’s top sights including Central Park, the Empire State Building, the Brooklyn Bridge, One World Trade Center, and so much more , soaking in stunning views of Ellis Island and Lady Liberty herself along the way.

Ideal for couples looking for a slice of romance, thrillseekers looking for some sky-high magic, or anyone who simply wants a new way to explore the city, helicopter tours of New York City are certainly an experience to remember .

Craving more altitude still? You’ll find flight lessons and aerial photography tours available as well!

  • helicopter tours in New York City

See also: Helicopter Tours in New York City – Which One Is the Best?

7 – Top of the Rock Observation Deck

Top of the Rock, New York City

As the world’s most famous skyline, it’s only natural that New York City would have a few observation decks where visitors can marvel at its majesty from up high. And, of course, one of the most popular is Top of the Rock.

Offering unparalleled 360-degree views from the 70th floor of 30 Rockefeller Plaza (an official New York City landmark also known as the GE Building), this Midtown attraction offers unobstructed vistas spanning Central Park to the north, Times Square and the Hudson River to the west, and the Empire State Building and beyond to the south — no matter which direction you look, stellar panoramas await .

Hot tip: try to arrive about an hour before sunset when the city begins to twinkle and enjoy a cocktail at Bar SixtyFive while you watch as day turns magically to night.

  • Top of the Rock tickets

See also: Top of the Rock Tickets Price – Everything you Need to Know

8 – Brooklyn Bridge

Brooklyn Bridge, New York City

Historic, iconic, and a tourist magnet for decades, the Brooklyn Bridge has long been considered one of the best tourist attractions in New York City .

Stretching over a mile above the East River and connecting Manhattan with Brooklyn , this 1883-built suspension bridge was originally designed to improve transportation between the two boroughs — which it continues to do in spades today.

However, its true value lies not so much in its role as a connector but rather for what it represents: an architectural masterpiece and a feat of 19th-century engineering that took close to 15 years to build , using 15,000 miles’ worth of wire.

Today, pedestrians and cyclists can follow the same path taken by thousands upon thousands of commuters each day on their way across, with a host of history and architecture-themed tours for anyone looking to learn a little more about the postcard-worthy landmark.

  • Brooklyn Bridge tours

See also: Best things to do in Brooklyn

9 – Escape room

Escape Game New York

Any budding detectives out there? If you consider yourself a problem-solver, a code-cracker, and a bit of a next-generation Sherlock Holmes, then put your money where your mouth is and test your wit in one of New York’s immersive, thought-provoking, always-exciting escape games!

With locations scattered all over the city (make sure to check The Escape Game ), you’re never too far from a room where you and your friends (or complete strangers) can put your lateral thinking skills to the test. Race against the clock to find clues, solve puzzles, and break out of the room before time runs out!

Choose from themes like prison breaks, art heists, a gold rush, detective missions, or even go for a horror-themed game if you’re looking to add a little fright into the mix. Either way, there’s no doubt about it: escape games in New York City are always fun!

  • escape rooms in New York City

10 – Museum of the Moving Image

Museum of the Moving Image, New York City

Tucked away off the beaten track in Queens, the Museum of the Moving Image is a true gem that celebrates all things film, TV and digital media — with an impressive collection of artifacts including everything from historic cameras to costumes worn by your favorite on-screen characters, plus props used in famous films and fascinating insights into the art of animation.

Besides the “Behind the Screen” exhibition, which showcases over 1,400 rare and unusual historical artifacts on its own, the museum also hosts regular screenings showcasing classic movies and newer releases (with a focus on independent films) at its own theater inside (included with museum admission); while traveling exhibits focused on special filmmakers, techniques, or themes ensure that no two visits are the same. A must for any movie buff!

11 – Guggenheim Museum

Guggenheim Museum, New York City

Despite often being overlooked in favor of the Met and the MoMA, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum remains an art-lover’s heaven on earth , with a reputation that extends far beyond the five boroughs.

Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and completed in 1959, and now considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this cylindrical building was intended to house a permanent collection of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, early Modern, and contemporary art from around the world .

And today it does exactly that, showcasing a wide variety of works by renowned names like Monet, Van Gogh, Manet, and Magritte, to name but a few,

What’s more, its spiraling ramp has become as much a part of the museum’s identity as the art on display within, making it an attraction in and of itself for visitors who want to take their time browsing through the galleries.

  • Guggenheim Museum tickets

12 – Museum of Modern Art

Museum of Modern Art, New York City

Guaranteed to delight, pose questions, and challenge your notions of art, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) has long held a reputation as a quintessential Manhattan destination for any culture vulture.

Boasting a permanent collection of close to 200,000 pieces from all around the world — one which has improved year after year since its founding back in 1929 — this Midtown museum is home to Claude Monet’s Water Lilies series, Vincent van Gogh’s The Starry Night and Pablo Picasso’s Les Demoiselles d’Avignon — plus works by Salvador Dalì, Frida Kahlo, Roy Lichtenstein, and pretty much every other major contemporary artist you could think of (and then some).

Throw in a sleuth of sculptures, film, photography, over 28,000 works specific to architecture and design items, and regular events throughout the year, and it becomes easy to see why the MoMA is considered one of the best tourist attractions in New York City.

To help you navigate this art behemoth, they offer a range of docent-led tours as well as a MoMA Audio Guide — an app that lets you listen to artists, curators, and conservators discuss various pieces in the collection.

  • Museum of Modern Art tickets

13 – Madison Square Garden

Madison Square Garden, New York City

Never shy of a roaring and electric atmosphere, Madison Square Garden is New York City’s premier sports and entertainment venue .

And no, it doesn’t matter if you’re not a fan of the NBA’s Knicks or the NHL’s Rangers – this arena is worth visiting for its sheer size, scale, and architectural magnificence alone .

Perched atop Pennsylvania Station (which makes for easy access) MSG has been drawing in basketball fans keen to see the NBA franchise in action ever since opening day , as well as hockey-lovers looking to get up close with their favorite NHL stars on ice.

It also hosts plenty of other sporting events throughout the year too – from boxing matches to UFC bouts and wrestling tournaments; while concerts by some of music’s biggest names have become a staple at this iconic venue for decades.

Wanna take a look behind the scenes? Tours of this historic venue offer visitors a look at everything from the locker rooms and press areas to private suites and even the hallowed ground where rock gods like The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, and Elton John have performed over the years.

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See also: Best things to do in Manhattan

14 – Museum of Natural History

American Museum of Natural History, New York City

Showcasing everything from prehistoric dinosaur skeletons to rare gems and stones , New York City’s Museum of Natural History is a haven for all those with an interest in biology, geology, anthropology, and the fascinating realities of the world around us.

Open since 1874, this museum holds one of the largest natural history collections on the planet – housing more than 34 million specimens ranging from insects to minerals, dinosaur skeletons, ancient rocks that date back billions of years, and a vast collection of plant specimens.

This sprawling complex in Theodore Roosevelt Park (adjacent to the western edge of Central Park) also features a range of educational displays dedicated to topics like biodiversity, climate change, ocean life, evolution, microbiology and more ; not forgetting its incredible 40-foot-wide, 66-foot-high IMAX screen that makes you feel like you’re in the thick of the action!

  • Museum of Natural History tickets

15 – Chelsea Market

Chelsea Market, Manhattan

If you’re in the mood for some gourmet eats after all that sightseeing, Chelsea Market is a must-visit. Located in the Meatpacking District (fittingly), this indoor food hall offers everything from artisanal cheese and chocolate shops to award-winning restaurants , drool-worthy tacos, as well as trendy boutiques and a few galleries on the side.

The Market has been around since 1997, but it only really hit its stride in recent years; nowadays, it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in New York City and a stone’s throw from both the High Line and the East River.

Come hungry and be prepared to sample everything!

16 – High Line

The High Line, Manhattan

Fast becoming an NYC staple since opening in 2009, the gentrified High Line is a public park built on an elevated section of a long-abandoned railway spur called the West Side Line.

Stretching about a mile and a half over 30 blocks and welcoming around eight million visitors every year , this popular elevated promenade winds its way along the lower west side between Hudson Yards and the northern edge of Chelsea (stopping off at the Chelsea Market), offering unparalleled views of Manhattan’s glittering skyline along the way!

Enviable views and peaceful stroll aside, a creative array of artwork combining sculptures and murals, as well as plenty of food carts throughout the area provide a buzzing yet peaceful atmosphere.

Hot tip: after stretching the legs, grab a seat at The Standard High Line’s rooftop bar for a killer view and killer handcrafted cocktail to boot.

17 – Whitney Museum of American Art

Whitney Museum of American Art, Manhattan

One of New York City’s finest museums dedicated to American art, the Whitney Museum is a must for anyone interested in 19th and 20th-century American works – especially those by living artists.

Among the broad 23,000-piece collections, crowd-favorite highlights include paintings, drawings, prints and sculptures that date back all the way to 1900; collections ranging from pre-eminent figures such as Edward Hopper and George Luks through to pop-culture icons like Andy Warhol ; as well as a range of changing special exhibitions throughout the year that ensure that no two visits are the same!

Tucked away on the shores of the Hudson River in the Meatpacking District, this imposing modern building is a sight to behold in its own right, with a ground-floor restaurant and a top-floor bar delivering top-notch views of the West Village and beyond.

  • Whitney Museum of American Art tickets

18 – Times Square

the TourScanner team in Times Square

Dubbed The Center of the Universe by many New Yorkers, Times Square is a bustling cacophony of bright lights, costumed characters, foot traffic and curious tourists that’s as chaotic and colorful as it is iconic.

Located in Midtown Manhattan at the junction of Broadway, Seventh Avenue and 42nd Street, this awe-inspiring spectacle might be cliché, but it remains one of the best tourist attractions in New York City and certainly one for the bucket list.

As a hub for art, entertainment and commerce (and the location of New York City’s annual New Year’s Eve Ball Drop), Times Square has been labeled The Crossroads of the World by many over time; with its high concentration of neon signs, billboards and advertisements offering plenty of photo opportunities along every step .

Grab a ticket for a Broadway show, pop into one of the souvenir shops, satisfy your sweet tooth at M&M’s World, find the Naked Cowboy, and be sure to take a selfie atop the famous red steps.

Hot tip: Yo wish to elevate your NYC adventure ? Grab a moment under the spotlight by getting your picture or video featured on a massive billboard , just like we did at TourScanner. Platforms like TSX liveboard facilitate this unique experience, ensuring your 15 seconds of fame amidst the incessant buzz.

See also: fun things to do in Times Square

19 – New York Aquarium

New York Aquarium, Brooklyn

A family-favorite attraction and one of the oldest continually operating aquariums in America , this Coney Island landmark has been entertaining curious visitors since it first opened its doors way back in 1896 (however, was housed in Battery Park until the 1950s before finding its new home) with over 10,000 colorful fish and ocean-dwellers on display .

Situated on 14 acres of land on the boardwalk fronting the Atlantic Ocean, guests can marvel at more than 300 species of marine animals spread over dozens of exhibits, showcasing everything from sea otters to sharks, starfish, and stingrays!

An undeniable highlight, the Spineless exhibit showcases the weirdest and most wonderful slippery sea-dwellers (think Pacific octopus, moon jellies, and zombie worms), while the hands-on sea lion trainer shows at the Aquatheater and 4D-movie theatre provided educational entertainment for kids and adults alike!

  • New York Aquarium tickets

20 – Fifth Avenue

Fifth Avenue, New York City

Credit card at the ready, folks!

When it comes to high-end shopping in New York City (with a potential dose of celebrity-spotting too) , the best place to go is Fifth Avenue where you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to luxury department stores and designer boutiques ; with flagship locations of Saks Fifth Avenue, Tiffany, and Bergdorf Goodman drawing a constant crowd, while coveted brands like Chanel, Cartier, Hermes, Prada, D&G, Gucci, Louis Vuitton and more await.

Those looking for an off-the-rack bargain can also head over to H&M’s largest Manhattan location on Fifth Avenue and 48th Street (with more than 57,000 square feet spanning five floors), or pop into Lululemon, Barnes & Noble, Adidas, the NBA Store, Uniqlo and more along the way!

While shopping is the main event, the strip also houses the 19th-century Neo-gothic St. Patrick’s Cathedral (opposite the impressive ATLAS statue) as well as the main location of the New York Public Library (at 5th and 42nd).

21 – 9-11 Memorial & Museum

9-11 Memorial & Museum, New York City

Sobering and powerful, and brilliantly designed to be profoundly moving, the September 11 Memorial & Museum is an eye-opening and riveting destination that, despite its potential to evoke sadness, is essential on any New York visit.

Located at the site of the former World Trade Center twin towers, which were destroyed during the attacks on September 11, 2001, this museum tells the story not only of that fateful day and its lead-up, but also of its aftermath and the fight to rebuild, and how it has shaped both America and the world.

An infinite in-ground waterfall in the open air, the memorial pays tribute to those who lost their lives in the attacks with two massive reflecting pools set within the footprints of where the towers once stood; while inside, poignant exhibits tell stories of heroism and heartbreak from survivors, first responders and others affected by that history-shaping day.

  • 9-11 Memorial & Museum tickets

See also: 9/11 Memorial & Museum Tickets Price – All you Should Know

22 – One World Observatory

One World Observatory, Manhattan

Located on the 100th, 101st, and 102nd floors of One World Trade Center (the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere), this extraordinary observation deck stands an impressive 386 meters above street level and gives visitors unparalleled views of New York City’s glittering skyline.

Reached via its own dedicated elevator, known as Sky Pods, guests are whisked up to the observatory with a video-enhanced journey through space and time that shows what NYC looked like throughout the decades!

The experience continues once you arrive at the top with three floors packed full of interactive exhibits for all ages; including stories about how the building was constructed during one of America’s darkest hours (with many poignant tributes included); along with cutting edge technology, floor-to-ceiling windows, and One Dine — an upscale eaterie known for its sophistical meals with a view to match.

  • One World Observatory tickets

See also: One World Observatory Tickets Price – All you Need to Know

23 – Broadway

Broadway, New York City

Offering a spectacular night out on the town for visitors of all ages and interests (and let’s not forget matinees too), Broadway’s reputation precedes it as a melting pot of performance arts and culture smack-bang in the heart of Times Square .

With a variety of world-famous titles to choose from — The Lion King , The Book of Mormon, The Phantom of the Opera , Chicago , Matilda, Aladdin , Avenue Q, Newsical the Musical, and Kinky Boots, just to name a sliver — you’ll never run out of fascinating choices full of the city’s best on-stage talent.

Hot tip: check out the red stairs in Times Square to find the TKTS booth — if you’re lucky, you’ll find iconic shows at 50% off at the last minute.

  • Broadway tickets

Read more: Best Broadway shows and musicals to see right now !

24 – Empire State Building

Empire State Building, New York City

Imposing itself over Midtown Manhattan since 1931, the Empire State Building has been drawing in visitors and tourists like moths to a flame ever since it first lit up the New York City skyline.

Standing at an impressive 102 stories high (not including the antenna), this Art Deco stunner was the world’s tallest building for more than four decades following its completion and remains one of the most popular attractions in town.

Not only is it possible to visit the tower’s open-air 86th-floor observation deck on most days of the year, but you can head even higher to the Top Deck on the 102nd floor , where floor-to-ceiling windows provide views that stretch for over 80 miles on a clear day, and then learn a few things at the selection of fascinating on-site historic exhibits!

Hot tip: while a visit to the ESB’s observation deck is quintessential, if you want to get the building itself in the backdrop of your photos, consider going to Top of the ROck, SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, or the Edge at 30 Hudson Yards.

  • Empire State Building tickets

See also: Empire State Building Tickets Price – Everything you Should Know

25 – Luna Park in Coney Island

Luna Park, Coney Island, New York City

A longstanding attraction straddling the Atlantic coast, Coney Island has welcomed sun- and thrill-seeking locals and visitors since the 1800s, and today is home to Luna Park (an amusement park) which offers more than 40 rides and attractions like bumper cars, roller coasters (don’t miss the Cyclone), and the heart-pumping Sling Shot catapult!

Free to enter for visitors of all ages (just pay for whichever rides you jump on!), Luna Park is open seasonally from April to October each year, with a bounty of Midway games, carnie eats, and souvenir stores to boot.

26 – Flatiron Building

Flatiron Building, Manhattan

Emblematic of the Gilded Age in New York City, the 285-foot-tall Flatiron Building was one of the first skyscrapers to be built in Manhattan and still remains an iconic sight on the city’s skyline more than a century later.

Designed by Chicago architect Daniel Burnham and completed in 1902, this triangular 22-story structure gets its name from its distinctive shape that resembles — well, a flat iron.

Aside from admiring it from afar or snapping photos of its gorgeous Beaux-Arts facade, you can also go inside for free (just head to the ground floor) and explore exhibits about the building’s history and construction ; plus there are often pop-up art installations taking place throughout the area!

27 – World Trade Center

World Trade Center, New York City

While most associate the World Trade Center with being the site of the 9-11 memorial and the symbol of resurgence that is the skyline-defining Freedom Tower, this Lower Manhattan complex actually houses a plethora of attractions — from retail to dining and entertainment, once you’ve ticked off the sobering memorial, there’s plenty more to see in the area.

You’ll find over 1.5 million square feet of shopping space throughout the complex, as well as the architecturally marvelous Transportation Hub — nicknamed the Oculus — that attracts photographers from near and far. Throw in ample green spaces (check out the Battery Park Esplanade), a sleuth of restaurants.

Looking for a hotel in the area? Any of the Four Seasons , Andaz 5th Avenue , and Ritz Carlton are modern, elegant, and a stone’s throw from Lower Manhattan’s main attractions.

  • World Trade Center tours

28 – Chrysler Building

Chrysler Building, New York City

Before the Empire State Building stole its thunder, the Chrysler Building was the tallest in the world (a title it held for just 11 months). Still, since being completed in 1930, this Art Deco masterpiece has remained one of New York City’s most beloved skyscrapers , appearing in many a film and on many a postcard!

You can admire it from all around Midtown Manhattan, but to dive deep into its history, a locally-led walking tour comes highly recommended .

Besides learning all about its unique art deco design and the iconic gargoyles perched atop, and the man behind it, you’ll also learn tons of other interesting (and surprising) facts about Midtown!

29 – St. Patrick’s Cathedral

St. Patrick’s Cathedral, New York City

In the heart of Fifth Avenue’s hustle and bustle, right across the street from Rockefeller Center, you’ll find St. Patrick’s Cathedral — the largest decorated Neo-Gothic Catholic cathedral in North America and one of New York City’s most historic landmarks.

While it is a functioning parish, this iconic Roman Catholic church welcomes visitors around the clock for guided tours and self-guided visits around its interior to admire the stained glass windows, statues, and impressive organ (the largest in New York City).

Dating back to 1878, the Gothic Revival structure is also the final resting place of the past nine Archbishops, so if you’re into history and religion, it’s a quintessential stop.

30 – Queens Museum

Queens Museum, New York City

While not as popular as its Manhattan counterparts, the Queens Museum is a gem of the city, and well worth visiting if you have time to spare.

As the only remaining structure from New York City’s 1939 World’s Fair site (the New York City Building), the Museum itself is a marvelous historical attraction; since opening its collection to the public in 1972, it has since then has been offering visitors an insightful glimpse into Queens’ history, unpacking its diverse communities, its artists through 20th-century works , and providing a wider look at the stories of New York City.

The highlight? The “Panorama of the City of New York” — an expansive 1:1200 scale model of all five boroughs (including every single structure) that covers nearly 10 thousand feet!

Found in Flushing Meadows, the Museum is around the corner from the 11-acre Queens Zoo, kid-friendly Fantast Fores Amusement Park, New York Hall Of Science, and the ever-peaceful Garden of Meditation — it’s easy to spend an entire day strolling around the area.

31 – Sightseeing cruise

Spirit of New York dinner cruise, NYC

If you’re short on time and don’t think you’ll be able to tick off all the top New York City attractions while in town, taking a cruise around Manhattan is one of the best ways to see as many highlights as possible.

A 90-minute ride (or sometimes a little longer, depending on your tour of choice) will take you past most of NYC’s iconic landmarks — from Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty to Governors Island and Chelsea Piers!

Along with your tour guide, learn about Brooklyn Bridge’s history (the longest suspension bridge in North America!), admire One World Trade Center up close, spot Lady Liberty, and be treated to fun facts along the way that even locals won’t know!

With a sleuth of tours available — private charters, party boats, dinner cruises, history-themed excursions, speedboat adventures, and romantic sails , to name a few — there’s something to suit every budget and interest!

  • boat tours in New York City

See also: NYC Boat Tours – Which one Is Best?

32 – New York Botanical Garden

New York Botanical Garden

A welcomed breath of fresh air in the heart of this otherwise chaotic metropolis, New York City’s Botanical Garden is an award-winning botanic wonderland that boasts some 250 acres of unspoiled natural beauty .

Located in The Bronx next to the infamous Bronx Zoo and a short metro ride from Midtown Manhattan, these verdant gardens are home to a plethora of rare and exotic plants and flower s – with no less than one million living plants covering 12,000 species from all over the planet.

As such, it’s not hard to see why sightseers flock here time and time again seeking solace during those long summer afternoons; nor is it difficult to understand why photographers love snapping away at this colorful and truly enchanting haven!

For something different, don’t miss the rock garden, and be sure to check the calendar to check out the rotating special events.

  • New York Botanical Garden tickets

33 – Museum at Eldridge Street

Museum at Eldridge Street, New York City

Located in Manhattan’s Lower East Side in Chinatown, the Museum at Eldridge Street is a perfect stop if you’re looking to learn more about New York City’s 19th-century Jewish community.

The museum was built over 100 years ago (in 1887) as the first synagogue of Eastern European Jews on the lower east side and has since been restored to its original glory; today, it welcomes visitors with exciting exhibitions (including artists’ depictions of NYC), educational videos, tours that explore its fascinating history, and absolutely stunning stained glass windows and decorations.

While there’s never a poor time to visit this underrated attraction, if you’re looking to save a few bucks, Mondays are ‘Pay As You Wish’ .

34 – Central Park Zoo

Central Park Zoo, New York City

Lions, tigers and bears, oh my!

There are over 130 species of animals at New York City’s Central Park Zoo — located in the southeast corner of America’s most famous green space.

Come for a family-friendly day out and spend quality time together exploring this urban zoo ; from snow leopards to sea lions, sloths and red pandas (an adorable highlight!), you’ll meet an array of fascinating creatures here.

And you’ll learn a thing or two as well; the Wildlife Conservation Society runs regular educational programs that leave kids and adults alike delighted and full of stories to tell.

The best part? The zoo is small enough that it can easily be explored within a few hours, and is right in the thick of the action, an easy walk to both the Great Lawn and Strawberry Fields.

  • Central Park Zoo tickets

35 – The Frick Collection

The Frick Collection, New York City

If you’re a fan of classical European art, The Frick Collection is an absolute must-visit when in New York City.

This museum, located on the Upper East Side not too far from Central Park on East 70th Street, houses one of the world’s most impressive private collections of paintings, sculpture, furniture, and decorative European arts from the Renaissance to the early twentieth century.

Take your time browsing through works by masters such as Rembrandt, Titian, Vermeer, Gainsborough, and El Greco in this intimate setting; all the while admiring the sprawling mansion on whose walls they sit — a piece of art in its own right.

36 – Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, New York City

Aviation and space enthusiasts, this one’s for you!

Over at Pier 86 in Hell’s Kitchen, the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is one of the best tourist attractions in New York City, and for good reason; it’s home to an impressive collection of military vehicles spanning aircraft, spacecraft, boats, and submarines!

In addition to its exhibitions (which include a guided tour of the USS Intrepid), the museum also offers interactive activities for kids and adults alike, movie screenings under the stars on its flight deck (weather permitting), as well as artifacts that provide a unique look into the world of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and NASA (don’t miss the Enterprise shuttle!).

Discounted tickets can often be found online; just make sure you allow yourself enough time to explore everything this top NYC attraction has to offer.

  • Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum tickets

37 – Radio City Music Hall

Radio City Music Hall, Manhattan

Bearing the coveted (and longstanding) title of being the largest indoor theatre in the world, Radio City Music Hall is an iconic New York attraction , and justifiably dubbed the Showplace of the Nation.

Throughout the year, all-star names in music, comedy, and performance art grace its stage. But if you’re not lucky enough to attend a live performance here, that doesn’t mean you can’t experience this legendary space; tours are available daily and provide visitors with a glimpse into the theatre’s architecture (it was built in 1932), as well as its history and role in shaping America’s culture today.

And if it happens to be Christmas time? The Rockettes’ annual Christmas Spectacular show will leave crowds of all ages mesmerized!

  • Radio City stage door tour tickets

38 – AKC Museum of the Dog

AKC Museum of the Dog, New York City

Dogs are a huge part of the New York City culture; from dog-friendly apartments and businesses to special events, this city loves its canines!

If you’re a pet parent or simply love animals — particularly our four-legged friends — make sure not to miss the AKC (American Kennel Club) Museum of the Dog in Midtown Manhattan.

Right around the corner from the Chrysler Building, this small but charming attraction houses over 700 canine paintings and sculptures by a variety of artists , as well as sections devoted to dogs on the silver screen, presidents’ dogs, war dogs, and

From noble hunting hounds to loyal lapdogs, and a special focus on deep in Mastiffs, Bulldogs, Great Danes, and German Shepherds, there’s something for everyone here.

39 – Staten Island Children’s Museum

Staten Island Children’s Museum, New York City

Looking for things to do in NYC with kids ? Offering a nice change of pace from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan, a trip to Staten Island is definitely worth it for at least one attraction: the Staten Island Children’s Museum !

This interactive museum caters specifically to kids (ages 0-12) and encourages hands-on learning through play . With exhibits on everything from transportation and science to history, insects, ships, giant board games, and even a “Become a Firefighter” zone complete with a working fire pole, there’s plenty here to keep youngsters entertained for hours on end.

As a little bonus, regardless of whether your drive across the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge or hop on a ferry ride over, the views of New York Harbor and Manhattan are sure to be spectacular.

40 – Edge Observation Deck

Edge Observation Deck, Manhattan

Delivering an unmatched open-air thrill as the highest outdoor skydeck in the Western Hemisphere (as of 2022), the Edge Observation Deck at Hudson Yards is among New York City’s top modern tourists magnets, dishing up views of the Empire State Building on one side and the shimmer Hudson on the other.

Standing 100 stories above street level — about 1,100 feet high — and with 360-degree views of the Big Apple, visitors can enjoy a unique perspective of the city in every direction — including underneath them! (Yes, there are glass floor panels in parts of this deck.)

While you’re in the area, check out the futuristic honeycomb-like structure that is the Vessel, a climbable sculpture with 154 interconnecting flights of stairs that offers a bird’s-eye view from the top.

  • Edge Observation Deck tickets

41 – National Lighthouse Museum

National Lighthouse Museum, New York City

Located on Staten Island (the least populated of New York City’s five boroughs), the National Lighthouse Museum is a fun spot for history buffs , as well as anyone who wants to learn more about lighthouses and their role in maritime safety with an emphasis on local examples.

Featuring exhibits that focus on both past and present lighthouse technology — along with an impressive collection of artifacts, photos, models, paintings, rare books, and documents — this museum also hosts special events throughout the year such as are exhibitions, festivals, and boat tours galore!

It’s about a five-minute walk from the Staten Island Ferry Terminal , making it an easy addition to break up the free sightseeing ride from Lower Manhattan.

42 – LEGOLAND

LEGOLAND, New York City

Adored by both kids and adults, LEGOLAND is a theme park chain with locations in Europe, Asia, North America, and Dubai that are devoted to the iconic interlocking plastic bricks .

Not to be confused with the NYC flagship attraction, its Discovery Center — located in the Rockefeller Center and which offers visitors a chance to explore creative building zones, shop unique builds, and admire miniature Lego-made landmarks — the sprawling Legoland theme park over in the town of Goshen is perfect for families hunting for a fun day trip!

Just 60 miles northwest of New York City, this beloved park features both indoor and outdoor attractions, rides for all ages (particularly those 2-12), a Lego-themed hotel, a water park, interactive live entertainment shows, friendly costumed characters, as well as a stack of whimsically themed eateries. With so much to see and do, an entire day is definitely needed.

43 – National Museum of the American Indian

National Museum of the American Indian, New York City

Eye-opening, educational, and providing an alternative cultural activity from the plethora of art museums around the city, the Smithsonian-affiliated National Museum of the American Indian is a fantastic place to learn about the indigenous people from all over North, South, and Central America.

Located on the first two floors of the gorgeous Alexander Hamilton U.S. Custom House (a classical Beaux-Arts beauty that faces Bowling Green Park in Lower Manhattan), this insightful museum details how, among others, Native Americans have lived for thousands of years through in-depth exhibitions, as well as film screenings and live performances throughout the year — including traditional dance shows.

It’s free to enter and open every day of the week , making it one of the best tourist attractions in New York City for those looking for something a little different.

44 – Fotografiska New York

Fotografiska, New York City

A relative newcomer to the city’s art scene as a sister of the popular Swedish photography house in Stockholm, Fotografiska New York is fast gaining traction as a notable landmark, becoming more and more popular every year since making its debut in the Meatpacking District back in 2010.

Boasting an impressive program of rotating exhibitions (featuring both emerging and established photographers), as well as talks, screenings, workshops, and portfolio reviews for aspiring shutterbugs , this cutting-edge space is definitely worth penciling into your itinerary if you’re at all interested in the medium. Housed inside a 19th-century chapel, even the building is a work of art — and, on that note, don’t miss the moody and historic Chapel Bar!

Hot tip: Photobugs, considering opting for the 1-hour private guided tour, where knowledgeable and passionate Fotografiska staff will take you behind the scenes and deliver tidbits usually missed by the general public.

  • Fotografiska tickets

45 – New York Public Library

New York Public Library, Manhattan

Unequivocally one of the most famous libraries in the world, the New York Public Library is a phenomenal research institution whose own story dates back to way back in 1895.

A cathedral of learning, with millions upon millions of books, manuscripts, and other items on its shelves, the flagship Beaux-Arts building on Fifth Avenue is one of the most opulent sights in Manhattan . (In fact, it’s so beautiful that it was used as a location for movies such as The Devil Wears Prada and Ghostbusters.)

Aside from housing an impressive collection of knowledge dating back centuries, the library is also open to visitors who want to admire its architecture and take a breather in its many reading rooms — perfect for when you need to escape the bustling city streets outside.

While the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building steals the thunder, all in all, you’ll find over 90 locations scattered around the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island.

46 – Staten Island Zoo

Staten Island Zoo, New York City

A surefire hit for galavanting families, the Staten Island Zoo is a small and unassuming urban zoo that’s home to an impressive range of animals from all over the world , with a reptile exhibit that takes the cake.

A favorite spot for locals thanks to the smaller crowds compared to its more famous counterparts, this attraction offers up-close encounters with critters such as kangaroos, leopards, ostriches, goats, honey bees, and more at prices that won’t break the bank — making it ideal if you have kids in tow.

Hot tip: for those pinching pennies, admission is FREE after 2 pm on Wednesdays.

47 – Wall Street

Wall Street in New York City

Chaotic, crowded, loud and unmissable: Wall Street is one of the most iconic streets in all of New York City , and it’s no wonder that tourists flock here by the thousands.

Made famous (in part) by its eponymous stock exchange, this narrow thoroughfare cuts through the heart of Lower Manhattan and is flanked on either side by some of the city’s most impressive skyscrapers.

While you may not be able to get up close and personal with the bankers and traders working inside, a wander down Wall Street offers an unrivaled glimpse into the New York Stock Exchange , the other arms of NYC’s financial district, and a chance to snap some photos next to the Charging Bull statue.

With so much history associated with the area, a guided tour with a financially-savvy local (or a foodie tour, if you’re into that too) comes highly recommended.

  • Wall Street tours in New York City

48 – Queens County Farm Museum

Queens County Farm Museum, New York City

If you want to get out of the city and explore a little bit of rural America, look no further than the Queens County Farm Museum — an underrated attraction that is both peaceful, educational, and, as one of America’s longest operating farms, historic.

Located in Floral Park, this museum is home to 47 acres of farmland, complete with a petting zoo, tractor rides, and an ice cream parlor to satisfy any sweet tooth.

What’s more, it’s the only working farm left in all of New York City (the others have been mostly turned into housing developments), making it a unique spot to visit for those looking for a taste of old-school Americana.

49 – The Paley Center For Media

The Paley Center For Media, New York City

Hidden in the shadows of the MoMA in Midtown Manhattan, the Paley Center for Media is a must-visit haven for cinephiles and TV nerds.

Open to visitors of all ages, this free attraction boasts an impressive collection of television shows and movies from across the decades , with over 160,000 showings on hand at any time — just browse the catalog and take your pick!

With exhibits that dive into the Internet, mobile video, and podcasting to boot, it’s the perfect place to take shelter from the rain or escape New York’s often sweltering heat ; sit back in one of its cushy armchairs and enjoy screenings that span everything from Hollywood classics like The Wizard Of Oz to interviews with famous comedians, or the latest binge-worthy TV hit.

50 – Yankee Stadium

Yankee Stadium, New York City

No trip to New York City is complete without a visit to Yankee Stadium , one of the most revered sporting venues in America .

Home to the nation’s (arguably) most successful sports franchise, a tour of this stadium offers an inside look at both the Yankees’ illustrious history and their current roster of players , with all kinds of memorabilia on display at the free-access (with a home game ticket) museum — items like Lou Gehrig’s jersey, Joe DiMaggio’s bat, and Babe Ruth’s 1927 World Series Ring.

History buffs, make sure to take a quick stroll through Monument Park, whose statues pay homage to some of the Yankees’ most famous bygone heroes. And, of course, sports fans, grab a ticket to a roaring and energetic home game for a wonderful day in the bleachers.

  • New York Yankees tickets

51 – Brooklyn Children’s Museum

Brooklyn Children’s Museum, New York City

A hidden gem tucked away in a primarily residential area, the Brooklyn Children’s Museum is officially New York City’s largest cultural institution designed especially for youngsters , which makes it an absolute must-visit for visitors with kids in town.

Boasting interactive exhibits on everything from outer space to nature and the human body , this museum is designed to inspire curiosity and teach our next generations about world cultures, history, careers, and so much more.

In addition to its permanent collection, the Brooklyn Children’s Museum also offers rotating exhibits, an ice skating rink in the wintertime, and festival programs that are both fun and educational!

52 – Ellis Island

Ellis Island, New York City

While often confused with Liberty Island (the slice of land on which Lady Liberty actually sits), Ellis Island is steeped in even more historical significance as the gateway for over 12 million immigrants who entered America through its doors from 1892 to 1954 in search of a new life.

Now a part of the Statue of Liberty National Monument, this island is open to visitors daily and offers an in-depth look into the immigration process that shaped New York City and America into what it is today.

What’s more, Ellis Island is also home to a museum whose exhibits tell the stories of some of these immigrants, giving faces and voices to those who were once just names on a page.

  • Ellis Island tours

53 – MoMA PS1

MoMA PS1, New York City

Over in Queens’ Long Island City, the MoMA PS1  is one of the most impressive contemporary art museums in New York , dedicated exclusively to showing off works that’ll provoke thought and spur creativity.

Housed in a former public school building, the modernized attraction displays over 200,000 of the world’s most Ingenuitive contemporary pieces, from paintings and sculptures to videos and installations , with a focus on works from the late 1800s to the modern day.

With installations from names like Ai Weiwei and James Turrell, and paintings from Francis Bacon and Sol LeWitt sculptures, not to mention a strong photography collection from talented Americans like Diane Arbus and Cindy Sherman, the range and diversity of the art here is astounding.

What’s more, the MoMA PS1 also doubles as an educational center, offering classes and workshops for both children and adults throughout the year!

See also: Fun things to do in Long Island

54 – Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts

Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, New York City

Founded in the late 1950s, Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts is one of New York City’s most impressive cultural institutions , housing a total of a dozen performing arts companies and close to 30 indoor and outdoor venues, serving as home to world-renowned arts organizations like The Metropolitan Opera, The New York Philharmonic Orchestra, esteemed Juilliard School of Music and so many more.

Today, this expansive complex offers everything from ballet (from none other than the acclaimed New York City Ballet) to film, opera, musicals and guest speaks throughout its iconic plaza, making it an easy place to spend an evening soaking up NYC culture on the Upper West Side .

So check the calendar, grab your better half, dress to the nines, and say hello to a splendid evening of bourgeoisie entertainment.

55 – Apollo Theater

Apollo Theater, New York City

One of the most famous theaters in all of America, Harlem’s Apollo Theater is a longstanding symbol of African-American talent , has been the stomping ground for many a famous name over the decades — the careers of Jimi Hendrix, Ella Fitzgerald, Diana Ross and Aretha Franklin were propelled by this stage , to name but a few.

Calling itself the “intersection of artistry and activism”, the 1500-seat theater puts on a mix of revues, concerts, dance performances and comedy shows throughout the year, with an emphasis on showcasing new and upcoming talent through its famous Amateur Night contests, where next-generation musicians compete for the chance to perform on stage.

Boasting a history and legacy matched by few venues in the country, a night at the Apollo Theater for a play, comedy act, R&B show, or hip-hop performance — or a guided tour that dives into its transition from whites-only theatre to iconic music venue — is always an occasion to remember.

56 – Museum of Jewish Heritage

Museum of Jewish Heritage, New York City

One for the history buffs, the Museum of Jewish Heritage is a powerful and emotional institution that acts as a living memorial to the Holocaust , telling the story of 20th century Jews from all over the world.

From roots in Eastern Europe to migration across America and beyond during World War II, as well as a moving and sobering look at the unspeakable tragedy that was the persecution of Jews — the Holocaust — this museum invites visitors to learn, reflect, and pay respect to both the triumphs and tragedies of Jewish history through exhibitions, tours, and programs , with a range of educational workshops that ensure we never forget.

Local tip: After browsing what is the third-largest Holocaust museum in the world, make your way up to the second floor for the LOX cafe, where scrumptious traditional Jewish dishes are complemented by excellent views over Lower Manhattan’s Battery Park and the Hudson River. If you’re traveling on a budget, admission is free on Thursdays between 4 and 8 pm.

57 – New York Catacombs

New York City Catacombs Experience

Coming as a surprise to many first-time visitors, the Catacombs at St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral is a hidden gem that lies below the 150-year-old church and functions as an underground crypt housing dozens of notable New Yorkers’ tombs.

The eerie, candlelit space is open for guided tours only , with tickets available on a first-come-first-serve basis that take you on a subterranean journey to no less than 35 family crypts home to former respected bishops and priests, and 5 protected clerical vaults.

The tour lasts around 90 minutes, providing a fascinating insight into a usually overlooked aspect of the Big Apple.

  • New York Catacombs tours

58 – Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden

Snug Harbor Cultural Center, New York City

Serene and secluded on Staten Island, away from the big smoke, the Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden is an urban oasis that’s home to 83 acres of lush and colorful gardens , a host of museums, dozens of buildings (some restored from the 1800s) including a Japanese teahouse, and much more.

What originally began as a retirement home for sailors in the mid-1800s has since blossomed into a distinguished Smithsonian Affiliate and one of the city’s most unique cultural destinations , with something on offer for everyone regardless of age or interest.

The center hosts regular exhibitions by local and international artists in its rotating galleries, puts on plays and dance performances in its theaters, and runs educational programs for kids and adults alike; while the botanical gardens are the perfect place to relax among blooming flowers, towering trees, tranquil ponds, and top-notch harbor views .

For anyone on the hunt for a spot of learning, don’t miss the Noble Maritime Collection and Staten Island Museum, while families, make a beeline for the Staten Island Children’s Museum — all on-site at Snug Harbor.

59 – Roosevelt Island

Roosevelt Island, New York City

Sandwiched in between Manhattan and Queens, Roosevelt Island is one of New York’s lesser-known neighborhoods — but definitely not to be missed.

The two-mile-long island was once a place for the sick, poor, and unproductive members of society — the outcasts — who had nowhere else to live in the 1800s (such, the land houses an almshouse, a penitentiary, and a then-called lunatic asylum), before being transformed into a residential community with high rise apartment buildings and lush green spaces.

It may still sit off most tourists’ radars today, but this narrow strip of land packs plenty of punch when it comes to sightseeing attractions : walk along Main Street for unforgettable views over Manhattan; learn about its history at the Smallpox ruins; visit the island’s 50-foot-high lighthouse; make a stop at the Octagon Tower and Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park, or take a ride on its quaint aerial tramway for spectacular skyline views.

60 – El Museo del Barrio

El Museo del Barrio, New York City

One of the best tourist attractions in New York City for anyone fascinated by Latin culture and history, El Museo del Barrio is a community-based museum located in the heart of East Harlem bordering Central Park.

The museum celebrates and showcases the art, music, dance, food, and fashion of Latin America and the Caribbean with rotating exhibitions , artist talks, films screenings (including bilingual contemporary Latin American films), concerts, and more.

If you’re looking to work on your Spanish, the Museo hosts a welcoming Spanish-language book club, and if you’re looking to dive deep into history, more than 6000 artifacts explore the last 800 years of Puerto Rican and Latin development.

61 – Chinatown

Chinatown, New York City

Foodies and culture vultures, get excited! Chinatown acts as a magnet for tourists looking to explore a unique pocket — just one of many — and get a taste of the vibrant multiculturalism of the concrete jungle.

This fast-paced neighborhood is home to some of the most delicious (and affordable) food in town, as well as an impressive array of stores selling all sorts of trinkets, souvenirs, and knick-knacks.

Take a wander through the streets and explore all that Chinatown has to offer; you’ll find yourself surrounded by colorful temples, pagodas, and archways, bustling marketplaces, aromatic restaurants , and locals who are more than happy to show you around.

With so much to see, and so many hidden gems known only by the locals, a guided walking tour comes highly recommended.

  • Chinatown tours in New York City

Hot tip: Discover the diverse neighborhoods of New York City with the best NYC city tours

62 – International Center of Photography

International Center of Photography, New York City

A quintessential shutterbug stop on any NYC tour, the International Center of Photography (ICP), founded in 1974, is dedicated to conveying and increasing understanding of the power of photography — and, as both a school and a museum, it draws photographers like moths to a flame.

The museum’s permanent collection contains more than 200,000 images from noted photographers such as Lewis W Hine, Ansel Adams and Dorothea Lange — just a sliver of the 3,000 photographers who have been on display throughout the years.

With fascinating exhibits that rotate regularly, no two trips are the same; and if you’re looking to hone your craft and snap a few shots yourself, what better place to learn than the world’s leading institution dedicated to photography and visual culture?

63 – Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Brooklyn Botanic Garden, Long Island

Overflowing with color and natural beauty all year round, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden is a 52-acre oasis on the edge of Brooklyn sprawling Prospect Park that’s home to more than 14,000 types of plants that dabble in all kinds of climates, near and far.

The garden has something for everyone, including an impressive Japanese garden with waterfalls and tea houses, rose gardens, a children’s garden with interactive exhibits , a herb garden, absolutely stunning cherry blossoms, plenty of space to meander and contemplate in between.

With at least one or two events every week, plus educational programs for adults (i.e. how not to kill your house plant), there’s always something new to explore at this urban paradise ; so pack your camera and spend an afternoon wandering through some of the most diverse flora on offer in New York City!

64 – The Skyscraper Museum

The Skyscraper Museum, New York City

Fitting for a city that’s nearly as vertical as it is wide; if you’ve ever wondered what goes into making a skyscraper (or just how tall they can really get), The Skyscraper Museum is the place to be.

This small but mighty museum, founded in 1996, is dedicated to exploring the development of high-rise architecture and engineering in the Big Apple , with both permanent installations that look at design, construction sites, real estate investments, and well as exhibits that rotate every few months.

From the original World Trade Center and Empire State Building to some of the newest and most impressive buildings in the city (Central Park Tower, for one), this museum has it all; plus, if you’re looking for a unique souvenir to show off to the folks back home, there’s even a gift shop selling scale models of famous skyscrapers from around the globe.

65 – Brookfield Place

Brookfield Place, New York City

The bustling intersection of shopping dining and sightseeing, architecturally impressive Brookfield Place , located in Battery Park around the corner from the World Trade Center and 9-11 Memorial, is a high-end mall, office complex, and cultural center all rolled into one, topped off with great views of New Jersey and the Statue of Liberty over the Hudson.

With everything from Gucci to Louis Vuitton and Peleton (plus a sleuth of eateries where you can dive into delectable American or European fare), Brookfield Place is a shopper’s paradise ; but it’s also home to some great art galleries and performance venues , making it a must-visit for those who appreciate both high fashion and high culture.

66 – The Woolworth Building

Woolworth Building, New York City

Having held the title of the world’s tallest building between 1913 and 1930 , the Woolworth Building is an architectural marvel that’s often forgotten in favor of its newer, taller, shinier counterparts.

However, towering above the city’s bustling Financial District, this formerly-dubbed “cathedral of commerce” remains one of the best tourist attractions in NYC.

A common spot on architecture-themed adventures of the area — whether that be a walking tour, boat cruise, or photography tour — this 792-foot Tribeca tower makes for a quick and notable stop.

  • architectural tours in New York City

67 – The Met Cloisters

The Met Cloisters, New York City

With dozens of museums all over New York City, including the massive Metropolitan Museum of Art on Fifth Avenue, there’s no shortage of great art to take in around town; but for those who want something a little different from your typical museum visit might be pleasantly surprised by The Cloisters.

Located uptown at Fort Tryon Park (known for its stunning views of the Hudson), this branch of The Met is dedicated entirely to medieval architecture and artifacts from Europe (and the only one in America to do so) , focusing largely on Romanesque and Gothic eras, with sculptures, paintings, tapestries and more that take visitors on a journey back through the ages.

Feeling like an odd mashup between old-world Europe and modern-day Central Park, the Cloisters are best explored with the 2-hour audio guide.

68 – South Street Seaport Museum

South Street Seaport Museum, New York City

A historic gem in the Financial District (which features some of the city’s oldest architecture), the South Street Seaport Museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the fascinating maritime history of New York City.

Taking up an old-school block of waterfront architecture, this unique museum complex is made up of a fleet of historic ships (including the 1885 schooner Pioneer; the 1907 lightship Ambrose, and 1930 tugboat W.O. Decker), as well as several galleries that take you on a journey through New York’s past – from its beginnings as New Amsterdam to its future as one of the most modern cities in America.

Hot tip: get into the maritime spirit by taking a harbor cruise before exploring the plethora of notable restaurants and bars nearby.

69 – Fort Totten Park

Located in Queens on the north shore of Long Island, F ort Toten Park is a smaller park, but one that draws crowds for its rich history — alongside the preserved Civil War fortress are epic views over The Bronx and Manhattan.

A former strategic military location that dates back over 160 years , Fort Totten is now a popular destination for kayaking, swimming in the onsite pool, sunbathing, and just enjoying the beautiful sights of New York City.

Start your journey at the visitors’ center to learn all about the park’s history, or, for those who enjoy guided treks, consider joining one of the informative and enjoyable ranger-led tours that dive into the fortress as well as the surrounding wildlife.

70 – SPYSCAPE

Spyscape, New York City

Feel like dabbling in a little… espionage? One of the coolest museums in New York City, the new SPYSCAPE is a spy-themed playground that’s equal parts fun and educational.

From interactive mazes to clever quizzes, this exciting museum puts you into the shoes of a real secret agent for an immersive adventure that’s totally unlike anything else around town (we promise).

Spread across seven different experience zones, future agents can admire the latest in intelligence and spy technology, experience the magic of artificial intelligence first-hand, and even browse a dedicated 007 James Bond exhibit!

  • SPYSCAPE tickets

71 – Deno’s Wonder Wheel

Deno’s Wonder Wheel, Coney Island, New York City

Having put smiles on faces for decades, Deno’s Wonder Wheel is a classic New York City attraction that’s been dazzling the masses on Coney Island since the roaring ’20s.

As officially the oldest continuous operating ride at Coney Island, the Ferris wheel rises 150 feet above sea level and offers some of the best views in town from its swinging and stationary cars.

However, it’s not all about the Wheel; the amusement park actually boasts nearly two-dozen thrilling rides , including the Phoenix roller coaster, a sleuth of kiddie rides, the Spook-A-Rama haunted house, and an immersive VR experience called Stop the Zombies.

Throw in all the classic carnie arcade games plus an old fashion Sweet Shoppe and Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs, and you’ve got yourself one heck of an afternoon on the cards.

See more: Cheap things to do in NYC

72 – Bryant Park

Bryant Park, New York City

A rare slice of greenery in the heart of skyscraper-city, Midtown, Bryant Park is a beloved public park that’s perfect for a relaxing break during your busy day .

The 42nd Street park features l ush gardens, plenty of benches and shady spots to take a load off, energetic street performers, as well as free WiFi and regular events like summer movie nights, fitness classes, live concerts, art installations, and a whole lot more.

Dubbed Manhattan’s Town Square, the park remains a buzzing meeting point no matter the time of year — in the colder months, don the skates for a few laps on the ice rink and browse the seasonal Christmas markets, mulled wine in hand!

73 – The Vessel

Vessel, New York City

Sticking out in the Hudson Yards skyline like a sore thumb, the Vessel is a new, edgy, and heavily photographed attraction that’s already become one of New York City’s most iconic landmarks in just the few short years it’s been standing.

Created by renowned British architect Thomas Heatherwick, the honeycomb structure is comprised of 154 interlocking flights of stairs (Harry Potter vibes, anyone) — 1776 steps in total — and o ffers incredible views over The Big Apple as well as nearby attractions like Hudson Yards itself, The High Line and the Chelsea Piers.

Looking to save a few bucks? Set an early alarm and arrive within the first hour of operation for free entry ($10 at other times).

74 – Madame Tussauds

Madame Tussauds, Manhattan

The closest thing to meeting your favorite celebrities, Madame Tussauds is a waxy hubbub of Hollywood A-listers, iconic musicians, historical figures, political figures, and quintessential New York faces , all under one roof.

The wax museum is the perfect choice for a rainy day in New York City and remains one of the most popular things to do in Times Square , with over 200 lifelike figures on show, plus interactive experiences like Marvel Superheroes and Star Wars.

With plenty of scenes set up for selfies, you’ll be tricking your friends and raking in the likes in no time!

  • Madame Tussauds tickets

75 – SUMMIT One Vanderbilt

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, New York City

A fresh addition to the glorious Manhattan skyline, the super-sleek SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is quick staking its claim as one of the best tourist attractions in New York City — while a formidable observation deck, this cultural experience tucked away atop the 73rd floor offers so much more than a great view.

Full of deliberately placed glass and mirrors throughout the area, SUMMIT delivers a magical and immersive artistic experience through its three ‘grammable sections: Air, Transcendence, and Affinity.

At a whopping height of 1,301 feet (or roughly equivalent to the Empire State Building), the new tower is easy to spot from miles around and offers unparalleled 360-degree views over all five boroughs , as well as Jersey City and beyond on a clear day.

For true thrill-seekers, the Ascent elevator — looking like something out of a Roald Dahl book — juts out from the building and climbs even higher! And after coming back down to Earth, drinks and creative dishes await at Après.

76 – Governors Island

Governors Island, New York City

A short ferry ride from Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridge Park, Governors Island is a car-free haven that’s perfect for summertime ambles.

The 172-acre island offers plenty to discover, with acres of lush green parkland as well as historic mansions and buildings transformed into art galleries, museums, and cultural spaces . Chill out in Hammock Grove, snap some colorful pics at the lavender fields, or take a guided tour of the island on the weekends to learn more about its military history1

It’s also home to some of New York City’s best events including music festivals, artistic workshops, lawn parties and DJ nights — check the calendar to see what’s coming up — plus the Governors Island Winter Village in Colonels Row with an ice rink to boot.

77 – Macy’s Herald Square

Macy’s Herald Square, New York City

From the iconic Thanksgiving Parade to the Miracle on 34th Street, Macy’s is as much a part of New York City culture as bagels and pizza slices.

So, it should come as no surprise that this historic department store — which has been around since 1902 — still holds some magic for visitors today.

Macy’s Herald Square is actually one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions in its own right; walk through the doors and you’ll be met with massive murals depicting scenes from NYC life and history , along with plenty of opportunities to revel in Americana and pimp out your wardrobe.

If you’re more about its movie magic than its fresh fashion, consider joining an NYC movie tour to check out how Macy’s has featured in famous films and TV sets from the likes Broad City, Home Alone, Girl Meets World, Thoroughly Modern Millie, Miracle on 34th St, and a whole lot more!

  • movie tours in New York City

78 – Jane’s Carousel

Jane's Carousel, Brooklyn

Now, remarkably, over 100 years old, this whimsical, old-timey family attraction — which now sits in the heart of DUMBO’s Brooklyn Bridge Park after originally being housed in Ohio — has been delighting kids and adults alike since 1922 .

Jane’s Carousel is a true New York City gem , and it’s easy to see why it was once dubbed the “most beautiful carousel in the world” . It features 48 exquisitely carved horses and chariots as well as an impressive glass enclosure which, despite being intended for its protection from the elements, makes the attraction even more unique.

Take a spin on the beloved Jane’s Carousel for just $2 per ride, or enjoy the views of the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan skyline from the surrounding boardwalk — either way, you’re guaranteed a good time!

79 – Carnegie Hall

Carnegie Hall, Manhattan

With a glowing reputation as a top venue for classical music and jazz (notwithstanding some rock and pop here or there too), Carnegie Hall is one of the world’s most prestigious concert halls.

Originally built in 1891, this iconic institution has hosted performances by some of the biggest names in show business including Judy Garland, Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong, Pink Floyd , as well as more contemporary artists such as Beyonce and a wide selection of world-renowned orchestras.

Today it continues to present over 200 concerts each season with countless performances every year from critically-acclaimed musicians and superstars alike. While tickets are needed to be (usually) booked well in advance , if you’re strolling by on a whim, check out the free Rose Museum or book a guided tour of the national historic landmark a couple of days prior.

80 – West Village

West Village, New York City

Buzzing with art galleries, trendy restaurants, and independent boutiques, the West Village is one of the most charming and picturesque neighborhoods in all of New York City.

Formerly a bohemian enclave for artists and writers (and still home to many creative types), this west-of-Broadway district that winds along the Hudson River has retained much of its old-world feel with narrow streets, intimate brownstones, and an eclectic mix of businesses ideal for a spot of window shopping (or actual shopping).

Take a leisurely stroll through the West Village while people-watching or popping into some stores you might not find anywhere else in the city; and, to learn a thing o two about the area’s vibrant history and diverse culture, consider joining one of the many locally-led walking tours.

  • walking tours in New York City

Hot tip: Check out our list of the best walking tours in NYC you shouldn’t miss .

81 – Staten Island Museum

Staten Island Museum, New York City

This small but mighty institution in the borough’s Snug Harbor Cultural Center has a wide variety of permanent and rotating exhibits on everything from natural history and archaeology to technology , local art and culture, and NYC-specific history.

The Staten Island Museum is perfect for a rainy day activity or something different to do on your next trip out to the oft-forgotten borough. And, believe it or not, that extensive variety of artifacts and exhibits makes it the only remaining general-interest museum in New York City!

Plus, admission is free (although the suggested price is $8 for adults — still ver affordable) so you can explore at your leisure without worrying about the budget. Check out their website for current exhibitions and upcoming events!

82 – Williamsburg Bridge

Williamsburg Bridge, New York City

Typically overlooked in favor of its parallel-running neighbor, the Brooklyn Bridge, the Williamsburg Bridge is nonetheless a must-see when touring New York City.

Completed in 1903, this imposing landmark connecting Brooklyn to the Lower East Side of Manhattan was the world’s longest steel suspension bridge for 20 years after construction , stretching 1.38 miles (2227 meters) from end to end.

It offers absolutely stunning views of both boroughs as well as Lady Liberty and Ellis Island — and of the Brooklyn Bridge too; another reason to stroll along this one in lieu! — making it perfect for an afternoon walk or bike ride.

Bonus: Since you’re technically in two different neighborhoods when crossing the bridge, you can easily explore each one separately before or after your journey!

83 – Museum of the City of New York

Museum of the City of New York

Heavily underrated but full of interesting exhibits nonetheless (with over 750,000 items to boot including outfits worn at George Washington’s inaugural ball), the Museum of the City of New York is, expectedly, a must-see for anyone interested in the Big Apple’s history and culture.

Located in Manhattan’s Upper East Side straddling the edge of Central Park, this 5-story museum traces the city’s development from its humble beginnings as a tiny Dutch trading post all the way to its current status as one of the most iconic and influential metropolises in the world.

And, with rotating temporary exhibitions on topics ranging from Broadway to fashion to architecture to social movements , as well as a fifth floor dedicated to the Rockefeller rooms (recreations of several famous Robber Barons’ houses), you can easily whisk away a few hours here!

84 – Woodbury Common Premium Outlets

Woodbury Common Premium Outlets, New York City

Craving a touch of retail therapy? An hour north of the city lies the shopalohilc’s paradise that is the Woodbury Common Premium Outlets , one of New York’s largest shopping malls.

With close to 250 designer and brand-name stores to choose from — including your favorite luxury labels like Gucci, Prada, Burberry, Armani, Balenciaga, Jimmy Choo and more at prices up to 65% off retail value! — you can easily spend a full day here hunting for deals on everything from clothing and accessories to beauty products and homewares.

For those looking to max out the credit card without worrying about going to and from, there are a few pre-bookable tours that not only include transport from Mantahhatn’s Port Authority, but also a free discount coupon book!

  • Woodbury Common Premium Outlets tours

85 – The Battery

The Battery, New York City

A lovely place to soak in the fresh air and waterfront views on any sunny day, The Battery is a local-favorite 23-acre public park located at the southern tip of Manhattan that regularly draws attention for its spectacular scenery and perspective of the Statue of Liberty and Jersey across the Hudson.

Steeped in history, these days it’s known for its wide variety of well-manicured green spaces, picturesque promenades, art installations, the kid-friendly Playscape and ShowBox amphitheater (home to regular improv performances), and monuments and memorials honoring soldiers, explorers, and immigrants; all in all, it’s perfect for a quick visit when wandering through Lower Manhattan.

And don’t forget to snap some pictures while you’re there; the Instagram opportunities are endless!

86 – Castle Clinton National Monument

Castle Clinton National Monument, New York City

An undisputed highlight of the Battery that deserves its only special mention, Castle Clinton is a historic fort built to protect New York Habor in the War of 1812 ‚ but that’s just the start of its fascinating timeline.

Originally intended as a military outpost with 8-foot-thick walls, this National Historic Landmarks sports history as diverse as New York itself ; after its fortification, it became an opera house (1840-1855) before being converted into an immigrant landing depot (1855-1890) and an aquarium thereafter until 1941!

Today, the incredible monument continues to serve the public by housing ticketing booths for those visiting Ellis Island and Liberty Island (the Statue of Liberty), offering guided history-themed tours, and a small exhibit on the American immigration experience.

87 – Metropolitan Opera House

Metropolitan Opera House, New York City

A world-renowned opera house located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan as part of the coveted Lincoln Center, the Metropolitan Opera stands proud as one of the most prestigious performing arts institutions in the United States.

Featuring a season that runs from September to June and showcasing over 200 performances of dozens and dozens of different operas (plus ballets and concerts), this iconic theater has been around since 1883 and has seen some of the greatest names in classical music grace its stage, including Luciano Pavarotti, Andrea Bocelli, Renée Fleming, Anna Netrebko and more.

If you love opera (or even if you’re just curious about it!), then a visit to see an event at this legendary institution is an absolute must!

Hot tip: Even if you’re not catching a show, there are plenty of opportunities to grab a magical Manhattan souvenir photo. Typically, early in the day when shows aren’t on, the lobby remains open to the public , meaning that guests can meander up the grand staircase, admire the shimmering crystal chandeliers, or step out onto the balcony that overlooks the bustling Lincoln Center Plaza.

88 – Bronx Zoo

Bronx Zoo, New York City

Easily one of the best tourist attractions in New York City for local and visiting families, the Bronx Zoo is the largest metropolitan zoo in North America , home to over 4000 animals representing more than 650 species from around the world.

Welcoming animal-loving visitors since the late 1800s, this 265-acre zoo not only offers an amazing variety of animal exhibits (including a World of Reptiles and Himalayan Highlands sections), but also interactive experiences like nature treks, sea lion and penguin feedings, and the educational Zoo Shuttle, there’s truly something for everyone here!

Plus, if you’re looking to get your little ones excited about conservation (or just want them to have some wild fun!), they offer a wide range of educational programs that cater to different age groups too.

  • Bronx Zoo tickets

89 – Children’s Museum Of Manhattan

Children’s Museum Of Manhattan, New York City

Designed to inspire curiosity about this big wide world of ours, the Children’s Museum of Manhattan (CMOM) is a magical place for NYC families — while targetted at youngsters six and under, parents and grandparents tend to love the playful hands-on exhibits too.

Featuring five floors packed with interactive elements that make learning about different cultures, art, history, and science fun , this is an attraction where kids can let off at least 2-3 hours of steam.

Located on West 83rd Street in Upper Manhattan – just a few minutes walk from Central Park – the CMOM also offers classes and workshops (like Gross Biology!) that are sure to spark plenty of intrigue.

90 – United Nations Headquarters

United Nations Headquarters, New York City

A symbol of unity that looks over the East River, the UN Headquarters offers in-person guided tours of its flagship building , giving visitors a chance to learn about the work of this important international organization, checking out the art and architecture along the way.

Tours run around an hour long and make a few stops inside the General Assembly and Dag Hammarskjöld libraries , and, if you’re lucky, observe the Security Council in session.

Tours aside, you can get lost in the UN Bookshop, send a postcard with a UN stamp, or browse the educational exhibits about peace, human rights, and activism (open Monday to Friday 9-5).

91 – Fraunces Tavern Museum

Fraunces Tavern Museum, New York City

Once a roaring watering hole during the revolutionary war — yep, meaning that this historic landmark dates back to the late 1700s — the Fraunces Tavern Museum is where none other than George Washington gave a moving farewell speech to his officers , which has since been transformed into a lovingly restored tavern and museum that tells the story of early America.

Tucked away in the Financial District in Lower Manhattan, this small but significant museum is home to a range of exhibitions that explore the revolution, the War of 1812, and more – not to mention the world’s biggest John Ward Dunsmore paintings collection.

Housing both permanent and temporary exhibits, guided tours from history buffs come highly recommended.

92 – Soho & Little Italy

Soho & Little Italy New York City

Two iconic NYC neighborhoods make up the Lower Manhattan area of Soho and Little Italy , a place that’s brimming with fine art galleries (including some very famous ones), quaint cobblestone streets, an abundance of world-class boutiques frequented by the who’s-who of NYC, and, of course, a sleuth of lip-smacking pizza joints.

While this part of town is best known for its high-end fashion stores (think Prada, Dolce & Gabbana) and historic restaurants (don’t miss Lombardi’s, Margherita NYC, and, if you’re still hungry, Il Piccolo Buffalo), it also has plenty of lowbrow entertainment to keep visitors occupied too — from indie movie houses to secret speakeasies!

  • Soho & Little Italy tours

93 – New Museum

New Museum, New York City

Full of over 6,000 contemporary artworks from over 800 artists , in a cutting-edge 7-story building that personifies what lies inside, the New Museum regularly flies under the tourist radar but delivers a fascinating and thought-provoking insight into the world of modern art.

Besides what’s on offer in the main rooms — largely focusing on lesser-known creators – there’s also a searchable database of over 3,700 artists, guided tours, and an audio tour if you prefer to wander at your own pace.

Hot tip: if your schedule lines up, visit from 7pm to 9pm on a Thursday for pay-what-you-wish admission! newmuseum.org

94 – Museum of Chinese in America

Museum of Chinese in America, New York City

A nice combination of art and history, the modestly-sized Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) aims to preserve the rich Chinese traditions and history , telling the story of the Chinese people who immigrated to New York and helped build the now-thriving Chinese American community.

Located in downtown Manhattan, the museum offers guided tours of its permanent exhibition and seasonal exhibits — where you’ll find over 65,000 artifacts spanning photographs, textiles and clothing — as well as a range of family-friendly hands-on activities and workshops.

Of course, located a stone’s throw from the sleuth of Chinatown restaurants, a visit is best backed up with a plate of delicious steamed dumplings.

95 – LoL Comedy Lounge

LoL Times Square Comedy Club

Sure to have you in stitches, the LoL Comedy Lounge is a laugh-out-loud comedy club that’s home to some of New York City’s funniest and most talented comedians.

Located in Midtown Manhattan in the heart of Times Square, this modern venue is where you’ll find an eclectic mix of established acts and up-and-comers doing what they do best — serving up side-splitting jokes on a silver platter.

Keep in mind: tickets to the nightly shows are usually very affordable but there’s often a two-drink minimum attached (helps to ease the nerves anyway).

  • LOL Times Square Comedy Club tickets

96 – New York Historical Society

New-York Historical Society, Manhattan

A quintessential New York City museum on the western flank of Central Park, the New York Historical Society is all about chronicling (and celebrating) the city’s rich and varied history.

From its origins right up to the present day, no stone is left unturned in this comprehensive museum — with exhibitions spanning 400 years of history on everything from fashion and sport to politics and civil rights , with plenty of art, sculpture and miniatures on show too.

There are also regularly scheduled guided tours (the docent-led kind are highly recommended), as well as occasional events ideal for the history buff looking to take their experience to the next level.

97 – The Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine

The Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine, New York City

Famous not only for being enormous — sitting in the top 5 of the world’s largest cathedrals as of 2022 — but also for being unfinished for over 120 years (and therefore aesthetically uneven) the Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine  is an underrated architectural and religious landmark that’s well worth a visit.

Listed as a National Historic Landmark, this Episcopal cathedral is home to some stunning stained glass windows, intricate carvings and sculptures, and two grand pipe organs , with an expansive interior that makes any visitor feel humbled and small.

Besides being a venue for concert musical performances, it also offers guided tours, houses art exhibitions, and welcomes literary fans to the American Poets Corner.

98 – Wave Hill Public Garden & Cultural Center

Wave Hill Public Garden, New York City

Delivering fresh air, bold colors, and a sense of history all rolled into one, Wave Hill ’s 28-acre public garden and cultural center is the perfect place to escape from the city’s madness.

Located in New York City’s Riverdale neighborhood in the Bronx, this scenic park features beautiful gardens where you can enjoy a picnic by the picturesque Hudson Palisades (don’t forget your camera).

The grounds also encompass a heritage greenhouse complex, with an art gallery that hosts regular exhibitions in the focal point itself: the neo-Georgian stone mansion.

99 – New York Hall Of Science

New York Hall Of Science, New York City

A place to don the lab coat and dive into the wacky and wonderful world of science, the New York Hall Of Science is a hands-on museum that’s perfect for inquisitive minds of all ages.

Boasting over 450 exhibits (most of which can be touched and played with), made all the more enjoyable by the nation’s largest outdoor science playground, this Queens museum will take you on an interactive journey through physics, chemistry, biology, math and more — from learning about the human body to building your own robots.

Sitting over in Flushing Meadows Corona Park, it’s also conveniently located near a few other top NYC attractions (namely the Unisphere, Queens Zoo, Queens Museum of Art and Citi Field), making for a full day of sightseeing.

Save hundreds with the NYC attractions passes

New York City tourist attractions pass comparison guide

Planning to hop around a handful of the concrete jungle’s finest attractions? With millions of tourists making the trip to the Big Apple year after year, local attractions have joined forces and partnered with tour companies to offer discounted passes for a number of the city’s top sights — known as New York City attractions passes .

These handy tickets — choose between the CityPass, New York Explorer Pass®, Sightseeing FLEX pass, Go City, or Freestyle Pass depending on your trip’s duration and budget — allow you to save up to 50% on some of the best tourist attractions in NYC , whether that be taking in a panoramic view from Top Of The Rock, browsing the Met, seeing Lady Liberty up close, or exploring Central Park by bike!

See also: New York City Attractions Pass Price Comparison Guide

Final thoughts

Thanks for checking out our collection of the best tourist attractions in New York City! If you have anything you’d like to add to the list, feel free to leave a comment below.

Bon voyage!

The Ultimate New York Travel Guide 2024

The Ultimate New York Travel Guide 2024

Our new york travel tips for first time visitors.

Image of author Steffen

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!

Steffen Kneist Loving New York

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)

New-York-First-Time-Visitors-370×200

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?

where to 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.

best observation decks in New York

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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

Itinerary New York 4 to 6 days

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

Shopping in New York: The Ultimate Guide 2024

outlets-in-nyc-180716104645002

The Best Outlets in NYC – The Ultimate Guide for 2024

Rare items inside a flea market

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Shopping in SoHo Best Stores

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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!

Beautiful Bars in NYC

The 24 Most Beautiful Bars in NYC Right Now

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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!

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Best places to visit in new york state in 2024.

New York state captivates both domestic and international travelers with the most populated city in the United States, sprawling state parks and a few beach communities. Whether you want to visit New York City to see Times Square and go ice skating at Rockefeller Center, or retreat to the mountains of upstate New York, there are plenty of one-of-a-kind vacation spots in the Empire State. U.S. News considered sights, culture, adventurous pursuits and the opinions of experts and readers to compile this ranking of the best places to visit in New York state. Read on for vacation inspiration, and don't forget to vote below for the destinations you think belong on this list.

Niagara Falls

Adirondacks, thousand islands, new york city, the finger lakes, the catskills, bear mountain state park, letchworth state park, long island, fire island, saratoga springs, cooperstown, shelter island.

tourist place new york

The tumbling, frothy falls – more than 3,100 tons of water flows over the edge every second – are the star tourist attraction in this New York destination that borders Canada. The best way to see Niagara Falls is on a Maid of the Mist boat tour, which takes poncho-clad visitors on an electric tour boat to the base of the falls. Or, more daring visitors can experience this natural wonder on a thrilling whirlpool jet boat tour. Just don't forget to check out the area's other unforgettable attractions, such as Niagara Falls State Park's hiking trails, Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens & Butterfly Conservatory or the nearby casinos.

tourist place new york

The Adirondack Mountains of upstate New York span roughly 6 million acres and are home to hundreds of communities, lakes, valleys and trails. Water lovers can canoe or kayak on Saranac Lake or go boating on Tupper Lake; hikers can tackle the area's 2,000-plus miles of trails; and skiers can shred powder on Whiteface Mountain near Lake Placid. Visitors will also want to save some time for checking out history-focused sights like the Lake Placid Olympic Museum and Fort Ticonderoga, as well as sampling regional beverages at local wineries and breweries.

tourist place new york

Despite its name, the Thousand Islands region is composed of more than 1,800 islands. The best way to see this vast area, which also stretches into Canada, is during an open-air boat tour. A scenic cruise here will take you past lighthouses, mansions and castles and include commentary about the real-life pirates who used to roam the islands' waters and the Gilded Age magnates who once called the region home. When you're ready to return to land, hike the trails in Wellesley Island State Park or fish in Mary Island State Park, both on Wellesley Island.

tourist place new york

A hub for culture, the arts, food and sightseeing, New York City is a must-visit on many travelers' bucket lists – and for good reason. Everyone can find something to enjoy in the Big Apple. You can see a Broadway show, visit the world-famous Empire State Building, walk the High Line, check out the dozens of museums, eat your way through Manhattan's distinct neighborhoods on a food tour or shop till you drop along Fifth Avenue. Don't forget to stroll through iconic Central Park and visit its can't-miss attractions, including the Central Park Zoo and Conservatory Garden.

tourist place new york

A romantic New York getaway , the Finger Lakes region appeals to travelers seeking a relaxing retreat with lovely scenery. Skiing at the area's resorts, wine tasting at the Seneca Lake Wine Trail's wineries and boating and hiking at local state parks are all popular activities to enjoy in this part of northwestern New York. The Finger Lakes are known for their spectacular fall foliage, but with their wealth of charming towns and variety of seasonal attractions, the lakes are excellent to visit year-round.

tourist place new york

With 98 peaks, southeastern New York's Catskill Mountains beckon to nature enthusiasts. About 40% of Catskill Park's 700,000-plus acres are designated as "forever wild," meaning you'll have access to sprawling spaces ideal for outdoor activities. In winter, the Catskills offer ample opportunities to ski and snowboard. Meanwhile, summer is perfect for hunting, hiking, boating and zip lining, among other activities. After a busy day outdoors, you can check out the region's art scene (the Catskills were home to America's first art movement – the Hudson River School) or enjoy the amenities at one of the area's top resorts .

tourist place new york

Located on the western banks of the Hudson River in the Palisades region of New York, Bear Mountain State Park offers sweeping views of the Hudson Valley and the surrounding highlands. The forested park's trails (including a stretch of the Appalachian Trail) take hikers through lakes, gorges and valleys. What's more, Bear Mountain State Park features a zoo, a swimming pool, a hand-painted merry-go-round and a seasonal outdoor ice skating rink, ensuring family fun both on and off the trails. (Note: Portions of this park are closed due to storm damage sustained in July 2023. Please check the park's website for the current operating status.)

tourist place new york

Nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the East because of its impressive gorge, Letchworth State Park is a hidden gem for travelers who love the outdoors. The park is home to three large waterfalls and dozens more on tributaries, many of which you can see as you trek some of Letchworth's 66 miles of hiking trails. Additionally, the park offers ample opportunities to go whitewater rafting, kayaking, horseback riding, biking and even hot air ballooning. If you prefer winter sports instead of summer pursuits, arrive when temperatures fall to go cross-country skiing or snowmobiling.

tourist place new york

This 118-mile-long island is frequented by New Yorkers looking to escape the city to relax on white sand beaches with a glass of wine. Summer hot spots like the Hamptons and Montauk boast charming seaside allure and can't-miss stretches of sand, like Ditch Plains Beach, a popular place to surf. Meanwhile, family-friendly Jones Beach State Park is a more approachable option with a swimming pool, a mini-golf course and shuffleboard areas, among other amenities. Beyond beaches, Long Island boasts more than 50 wineries and tasting rooms, some of which are part of the island's North Fork Wine Trail.

tourist place new york

The presence of two renowned institutions – Ithaca College and Cornell University – makes Ithaca a true college town. But this small town in New York's Finger Lakes region is also known for its stunning natural beauty, so much so that its slogan is "Ithaca is gorges." Ithaca is surrounded by more than 150 waterfalls, as well as gorges and dense forests with hiking and biking trails. What's more, the town overlooks the southern shore of Cayuga Lake, a superb spot for boating, fishing and swimming. For groups with budding naturalists, follow Ithaca's Discovery Trail to must-see attractions like the Sciencenter and the Cornell Botanic Gardens.

tourist place new york

Those looking to get away from skyscrapers can travel about 60 miles southeast of New York City to reach this 32-mile-long, car-free barrier island. On Fire Island, you'll find several charming communities, including Ocean Beach (where most of the island's hotels, restaurants and shops are located) and Cherry Grove and Fire Island Pines (two of the island's top LGBTQ-friendly areas). Plus, Fire Island is home to Fire Island National Seashore, a protected area that welcomes bird-watchers and campers in droves. If you'd rather spend your vacation swimming, surfing or sunbathing, head to Robert Moses State Park in summer to enjoy its beautiful beaches.

tourist place new york

Ever since the Mohawk people came to Saratoga Springs and discovered its mineral waters, which were believed to have restorative properties, the town has blossomed into a popular vacation destination. Visitors can still drink from or soak in the town's mineral springs, 12 of which are located in Saratoga Spa State Park. However, many travelers now flock to Saratoga Springs to see one of the country's oldest racetracks, the Saratoga Race Course. Take a walking tour of the facility to learn more about its history and horseracing, or visit in August to attend the venue's premier event, the Travers Stakes.

tourist place new york

Cooperstown may be small, but it attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year thanks to its ties to America's pastime. Although most experts agree that baseball wasn't invented here, Cooperstown remains a mecca for sports lovers because of its must-visit sight, the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. However, the village offers other kinds of attractions, too. Travelers can visit the Fenimore Art Museum to see impressive works of art or check out The Farmers' Museum's exhibits about local agriculture. Cooperstown also features beautiful neoclassical buildings, such as Hyde Hall, and a variety of breweries and wineries.

tourist place new york

Situated between the North and South forks of Long Island, Shelter Island features a quiet, laid-back atmosphere perfect for escaping the hustle and bustle of New York City. One-third of the island is occupied by the Mashomack Preserve, a protected area with more than 200 bird species and hiking trails through meadows and salt marshes. The rest of Shelter Island boasts charming Victorian-era buildings that house boutiques and eateries, plus stunning stretches of sand with calm waves ideal for swimming, such as Crescent Beach and Wades Beach.

tourist place new york

New York's capital city teems with culture and history. Visitors can admire the elaborate beauty of the New York State Capitol building on a tour and observe natural history exhibits at the New York State Museum (both of which are free), or explore Albany's Dutch heritage at Crailo State Historic Site and the Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site. Meanwhile, art enthusiasts can view landscape paintings from the Hudson River School at the Albany Institute of History & Art. Beyond the tourist attractions, travelers can stretch their legs in Washington Park, grab a local craft beer or catch a show at The Egg.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

tourist place new york

Governors Island

tourist place new york

Rochester, NY

tourist place new york

Lake George

tourist place new york

Sleepy Hollow

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Places to Visit in New York City

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Tourist Places In New York City

Here are some the best places to visit in new york city:, statue of liberty.

Statue Of Liberty

A colossal neoclassical sculpture on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, the Statue of Liberty is one of the most iconic places to visit in New York City. It is a copper statue; the Statue of Liberty Enlightening the world was gifted by France to the United States for friendship. 

Times Square

Times Square

Located at Broadway, 7th Avenue cornered by 42nd and 47th Streets, Times Square is a major commercial intersection, tourist destination, entertainment hub, and one of the major New York City attractions. Dating back to the 1880s, its original name was Long Acre Square. However, the mayor of New York renamed it Times Square, in 1904, after the popular daily The New York Times took up residence in the building. 

Central Park

Central Park

Central Park is the fifth largest urban park in New York City and is located between the Upper West and Upper East sides of Manhattan. The park has lots of popular attractions for its visitors. Some attractions are historically significant but all of them are beautiful, such as artificial lakes, meadows, waterfalls, and wooded areas. These attractions also include Belvedere Castle, and Blockhouse, a remaining Fort from the War of 1812.

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Metropolitan Museum Of Art

Metropolitan Museum Of Art

Locally known as “the met,” the Metropolitan Museum of Art is the largest art museum in America. It has a rich collection of over two million words, divided among seventeen curatorial departments. One of the world’s largest and finest art museums, you get the artworks of over 5,000 years representing the world’s culture, from prehistory to the present and from every corner of the Earth. 

Broadway And The Theater District

Broadway And The Theater District

Broadway is the name of the oldest north-south running, diagonal road that begins from State Street at Bowling Green. The Theater District is an area in Midtown Manhattan, New York, where 41 major Broadway theatres are located. Also known as the Broadway Theater district, it is amongst the prominent New York City attractions, especially for theatre lovers. Home to the city’s best theatres, it is recognized as the heart of the entertainment industry.  

The Museum Of Modern Art

The Museum Of Modern Art

MoMA or the Museum of Modern Art is one of the most popular places to Visit in New York City known for its world’s largest collection of artefacts. A fusion of creativity, the museum plays a crucial role in preservation, development and collection of modern art. MoMA was established in 1929 and a permanent collection was brought into the realm in 1952.

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World Trade Center

World Trade Center

A large complex of several buildings, the World Trade Center is located in the Financial district of Lower Manhattan in New York City. The twin towers of the World Trade Center, the north and south, were devastated to an extent sufficient to shake the nation’s spirit in the 9/11 attack. The buildings were then rebuilt and opened to people in 2014. 

Rockefeller Center

Rockefeller Center

The Centre is a complex of nineteen commercial buildings in Midtown Manhattan, as well as one of the major New York City Attractions. Named after John D. Rockefeller Jr., the centre was created over 100 years ago. To bring his idea of a “city within a city” to ground reality, a fusion of art, style, and entertainment, the centre has every bit to offer what the city has.

Empire State Building

Empire State Building

A 102-storey Art Deco modernist skyscraper in the heart of New York, Midtown Manhattan, the building is named after the nickname of New York, ‘Empire State’. One of the most distinctive and famous buildings in the United States of America, the Empire State building is listed amongst the renowned New York tourist attractions. It also tops America's favourite architecture list, and stands tall at 1250 feet.

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9/11 Memorial And Museum

9/11 Memorial And Museum

The memorial and museum commemorates the terrorist attacks on September 9th, 2001, in which the Al Qaeda terrorist organisation hijacked four passenger-laided aeroplanes. During the rebuilding of the devastated twin towers of the World Trade Center, the 9/11 memorial and museum was established.

High Line

High line is a 1.45 mile long elevated linear park on the West Side of Manhattan. It is maintained by Friends of the High line, a non-profit organisation. The organisation is dedicated to reimagining the public spaces and its role to create connections, healthy neighbourhoods and cities. Walk through the garden, explore artworks, experience performances, cherish delicious food, and build connections with friends and neighbours. 

Brooklyn Bridge

Brooklyn Bridge

The first fixed crossing of the East river, the Brooklyn bridge is a cable-stayed/ suspension bridge that connects the boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn. It was the first bridge to use steel for cable wires. It is also considered as an amazing feat of the nineteenth century engineering marvels. 

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Fifth Avenue

Fifth Avenue

Also known as the shopping district, Fifth Avenue is the area between 49th and 60th streets in Manhattan. It does not fail to reserve its name in ‘places to visit in New York City’. Fifth Avenue is one of the most expensive shopping districts on the Earth. It is also one of the most picturesque streets and avenues in Manhattan with museums, hotels, restaurants and luxurious buildings.

One World Observatory

One World Observatory

It is basically an observation deck at the top of One World Trade Center. The observatory floors were located on 100-102 floors of the centre, with dining options at the ONE Dine and exhibits. The Observatory provides space to host events, for example, ASPIRE, a 9000 square foot space, which provides an unparalleled vantage point in the city to enjoy and host events. 

Wall Street

Wall Street

An eight-block long street located in the financial district of Lower Manhattan in New York City, the Wall Street is a 800 metre long stretch. The Wall Street extends in the West from Broadway to South Street and the East river in the east. Since ages, Wall Street has been headquarters of some of the largest Brokerages and Investment banks of the United States of America.

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New York Public Library

New York Public Library

Home to 53 million items and spread over 92 locations, the public library is listed as one of the most popular places to visit in New York City. It is also the second largest public library in the United States and the fourth largest in the world. People from anywhere can attend the public programs and access the facilities available in the Library, by showing an ID proof.

St. Patricks Cathedral

St. Patricks Cathedral

A Catholic Cathedral in Midtown Manhattan, St. Patrick’s Cathedral is the seat of the Archbishop of New York and the Parish Church. Enjoy the stunning architecture of the Cathedral, and pray the rosary during evening hours. The largest neo-Gothic Cathedral spreads over an entire city block and is visited by millions of visitors annually. 

Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum is an art museum that exhibits collections of modern and contemporary art, presenting new ideas on modernism. The museum has housed the art-collecting activities of Solomon R. Guggenheim and is part of UNESCO World Heritage . It’s one of the most famous places to visit in New York City attracting visitors with its unique architecture and collection.

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Bryant Park

Bryant Park

The park is a recreational area with walking paths, cycling paths, artificial lakes, and boat rentals for its visitors. One of the busiest public places in the World, Bryant Park is famous for its winter village theme, with cosy igloos and other winter sports activities. Mecca for arts and culture, the Park has engaging and captivating events, festive, delicious food, and fitness classes to offer its visitors.

Carnegie Hall

Carnegie Hall

A concert venue in Midtown Manhattan, Carnegie Hall is famous for its history, rooted in its acoustics, beautiful interiors, and concert halls.One of the most prestigious facilities in the world, the gallery has been one of the ultimate badges of musical honour. The mission of Carnegie Hall has been to present music and musicians and to transform the power of music.

American Museum Of Natural History

American Museum Of Natural History

As the name suggests, the American Museum Of Natural History is a natural history museum situated on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. Home to around fifty exhibits, the museum is considered one of the world’s largest and most notable museums. The museum is a renowned institution and offers both education and entertainment. Explore the museum’s landmark, the rose centre for Earth and Space. 

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Washington Square Park

Washington Square Park

The Greenwich Village neighbourhood of Lower Manhattan has this beautiful Washington Square Park that stretches over 9.75 acres. It is one of the New York City attractions, a well known public park, is used for meetings and as a centre for cultural activities. The greenery around the park, walkways and the beautiful stone-rimmed fountain has spectacular views and sights to offer its visitors.

Radio City Music Hall

Radio City Music Hall

An entertainment venue and theatre, the Radio City Music Hall falls within the Rockefeller Center. Located in Midtown Manhattan, it is nicknamed “The Showplace of the Nation” and it is the Headquarters for the Rockettes. The night shows, performances, comedian shows, and chart-tapping musical art, the Hall has everything to offer to its attendees.

Liberty Island

Liberty Island

An island owned by the federal government, Liberty Island is one of the famous New York tourist attractions that holds historical and national significance. It is located in Upper New York Bay in the United States. The island is dedicated to the notable Statue of Liberty, which is also its most notable feature. 

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New York Harbor

New York Harbor

The opening of the Hudson river, the New York harbour empties into New York Bay near the East River Estuary. One of the most beautiful places to visit in New York City, the harbour is one of the largest natural harbours in the world. It plays a vital role in the region's economy, wherein it transports millions of kilograms of cargo, through thousands of water vessels.

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17 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in New York State

Written by Shandley McMurray and Lana Law Updated Sep 16, 2022

The task of choosing a handful of top attractions to represent the entire state of New York is not an easy one thanks to its nearly endless number of things to see and do. From the historic to the most contemporary, New York State overflows with interesting places to visit.

Letchworth State Park, New York

New York City is undeniably the state's most popular tourist destination, and it's packed with famous attractions, restaurants, and shops. The borough of Manhattan is home to many of the city's top destinations, like Central Park, Times Square, the Empire State Building, and much more.

Upstate New York, as locals call pretty much anything north of the city, offers year-round vacation possibilities. In summer, the many lakes and mountains, along with New York's charming small towns , are the main attractions.

Winter is also a popular time to visit due to the ski resorts and luxury hotels and lodges that make great getaways.

Plan the perfect escape any time of year with our list of attractions and places to visit in New York State.

1. Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

2. niagara falls, 3. central park, 4. times square, 5. finger lakes, 6. lake placid, 7. lake george, 8. storm king art center, 9. cooperstown, 10. thousand islands, 11. the adirondacks, 12. the catskills, 13. letchworth state park, 14. darwin d. martin house complex, buffalo, 15. watkins glen state park, 16. george eastman house and the international museum of photography and film, rochester, 17. kingston.

Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty is the nation's most iconic monument , a symbol of hope to millions of immigrants on their way to Ellis Island.

Tourists can visit both attractions via a ferry operated by the National Park Service that meets passengers at Battery Park and runs continuous loops throughout the day.

The first stop is the statue, where visitors can enjoy views of both the monument and the New York City skyline at no charge. You can also purchase tickets to access the pedestal or crown, although crown passes sell out at least six months in advance.

Be sure to wander through the museum in the base of the statue and check out the extensive educational signs, statues, and historic markers.

Ellis Island

The ferry stops next at Ellis Island, where there is a museum on the first floor of the main building, an architectural masterpiece that once served as the main processing center and hospital from 1892 to 1954. On the upper level, tourists can wander the rooms of the quarantine wing and see some of the original bunks and facilities used by those hoping to start new lives.

Inside are poignant exhibits, with walls of photos, documents, and personal stories that capture defining moments in American history, one person at a time.

Tourists should plan at least a half day to enjoy sightseeing at both attractions, or if pressed for time consider hopping aboard the ferry and using the ride to get phenomenal views of these New York City landmarks from many angles.

Official site: www.nps.gov/stli

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is one of the natural wonders of North America, drawing millions of visitors each year. Located along the border of Canada and the United States, there are actually three waterfalls within the park: Bridal Veil Falls, American Falls, and Horseshoe Falls. Horseshoe Falls is the widest and tallest, dropping 167 feet from a 2,700-foot-wide ledge.

For the best panoramic view of all three falls, go up the observation tower, or take the famed Hornblower boat tour into the basin of Horseshoe Falls. It's one of the most popular things to do in Niagara Falls . In addition to park information and tour tickets, the visitor center has a gift shop, several dining options, and a theater that shows a 40-minute film about the history and legend of the falls.

Niagara Falls in winter on a cold day

The park also provides nighttime illumination of the falls and hosts spectacular fireworks shows on special occasions.

In winter, the falls transform into a frozen spectacle of massive icicles, freezing fog, and ice-covered trees and railings. On clear, calm days, the plume of mist rising off the falls stretches high into the sky and can be seen from as far away as the CN Tower in Toronto.

Official site: www.niagarafallsstatepark.com

Central Park

Although it may appear on a map as a small patch of green within the grid of Manhattan streets, Central Park is an expansive space that contains enough sights and things to do to last for days, if not longer.

Central Park is home to a wide range of attractions , from impressive architecture and peaceful gardens to skating rinks.

Bethesda Terrace is known for its stunning Bethesda Fountain, and the Mall , an idyllic, broad pathway canopied by the arching limbs of centuries-old American elms, begins at the terrace. Tourists will find several peaceful spots to relax, like the formal Conservatory Garden , the Shakespeare Garden , or the famed Chess & Checkers House .

Bethesda Fountain

Kids will enjoy the Central Park Zoo , which features sea lions, penguins, and other animals, and the younger ones will want to ride on the historic Carousel . The park also has, of course, expansive green lawns and enough playgrounds to keep kids busy for days.

Heckscher Playground lies mid-park between 61st and 63rd streets and boasts an extensive sprinkler area to help little ones cool off on a hot summer day. It dates to 1926 and also has slides, a giant sandbox, and climbing structures, as well as lots of open space to run around.

The Billy Johnson playground near the zoo features a stone slide beloved by kids. Be sure to bring a newspaper, or better yet, the lid of a pizza box to sit on while sliding, as it makes the ride faster.

Several ponds are also on hand to enhance the ambience. Pack a picnic and enjoy your meal with a side of people-watching.

Central Park can be toured by horse-drawn carriage for the ultimate romantic sightseeing experience.

Official site: www.centralparknyc.org

Times Square

There are weeks' worth of attractions and things to do in and around Times Square, but even a brief visit to experience the bigger-than-life excitement is worth the trip. The heart of Times Square is at the junction of Broadway and 7th Ave, where you will be mesmerized by the massive screens that announce everything from the newest films and shows to special presentations.

The pedestrian areas are full of artists, performers, and tourists taking in the cacophony of the city and the enticing smells wafting from the food trucks that line the streets. While in the neighborhood, a visit is not complete without dinner at Sardi's Restaurant and a show in the world-famous Theater District .

Times Square in the early evening

Traveling with the kids? You'll find plenty of family attractions, including Madame Tussauds , which has not only amazing waxworks and interactive exhibits but also offers a new perspective from the glass-walled viewing platform that protrudes over the sidewalk.

Times Square is also home to a staggering number of stores, big and small, and no visit is complete without a stop at M&M World where you can't help but smile. The Empire State Building , another NYC icon, is within walking distance of the square and is open until 2am for breathtaking views of the city below.

Finger Lakes

According to Iroquois legend, the long, narrow lakes in the landscape west of Syracuse were formed by the impression of the fingers of the Great Spirit. The numerous lakes that make up the Finger Lakes region offer a range of outdoor opportunities in a visually stunning landscape.

Cute towns and Finger Lakes resorts are dotted along the lakeshores of the main lakes, most of which are particularly busy during the summer months. Some interesting ways to explore the area are on the Cayuga Trail, the Seneca Lake Trail, and the Keuka Trail.

The town of Corning is home to the living history museum Heritage Village of the Southern Finger Lakes , as well as The Rockwell Museum , which features a variety of artwork. Auburn is also home to several attractions, including the Harriet Tubman House , the Seward House Museum , Willard Chapel, and the Fingerlakes Mall. Additional attractions include the Finger Lakes Museum in Branchport and the Sonnenberg Gardens & Mansion State Park.

Mountain coaster at Greek Peak Mountain Resort

Seeing the falls at Watkins Glen State Park ; riding in a hot air balloon over Letchworth State Park , and having an adventure at Greek Peak Mountain Resort are among the best things to do in the Finger Lakes .

Adirondack chairs looking over Mirror Lake in Lake Placid

The world-famous winter sports resort of Lake Placid, at the foot of Whiteface Mountain , has twice hosted the Winter Olympics (1932, 1980). Today Lake Placid is a major tourist center , located in beautiful natural surroundings with lakes and hills.

While it is perhaps best known internationally for its winter recreation, particularly skiing, the town is a popular summer destination as well. All kinds of unique shops and restaurants line the main tourist strip in Lake Placid. Beautiful resorts are found along the shores and in the rolling landscape.

In addition to the actual body of water named Lake Placid, there is also the incredibly scenic Mirror Lake , which is a centerpiece of the town. The setting for this lake makes it one of the most beautiful lakes in New York State .

Lake George

The town of Lake George is located at the southern end of a 32-mile-long lake of the same name. The town is a major tourist destination in the summer, and the lake itself is the main attraction.

Many of the islands on the lake have been developed for camping, and the area is particularly popular with motorcyclists.

Million Dollar Beach , on Beach Road, provides swimming, picnic facilities, and volleyball courts. Sightseeing cruises are also a fun way to see the lake. Prospect Mountain offers a high scenic point for a view out over the lake and surroundings.

Historical points of interest around Lake George include Lake George Battlefield Park and the Fort William Henry Museum .

Storm King Art Center

Wear comfortable shoes when you visit Storm King Art Center, which was named for the nearby mountain overlooking the Hudson River. This magnificent outdoor sculpture gallery set among 500 acres of bucolic landscape is by far one of the most captivating attractions in New York state – and you'll want to walk around it all.

Not a walker? No worries. There's a tram on-site to take you past most of the massive sculptures, but you'll want to download the site's app to get the most detailed information about each piece. Also, since this is an open-air attraction, plan your visit for a nice day to get the most out of your trip.

Many of the ambitious works on display throughout the fields and hills of this unique exhibition change frequently, and the art looks different in every season. That means you're in for a new experience with every visit. And trust us, going once really isn't enough!

Storm King is open Wednesdays to Mondays from 10am to 5:30pm. Last entry is at 4. It will take at least two hours to explore the area, more if you'd like to stop and appreciate the impressive works, so plan your trip accordingly. There's a café on-site offering healthy lunches, drinks, and snacks to help ward off hunger pangs during your journey.

Address: 1 Museum Road, New Windsor, New York

Official site: https://stormking.org/

National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum in Cooperstown

Cooperstown sits at the southern tip of Otsego Lake in central New York state. It is best known as the home of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum , where baseball aficionados can admire the sport's legends and view memorabilia.

The Heroes of Baseball Wax Museum is a fun follow-up to the Hall of Fame, and although it is on the smaller side, it is fun to pose with baseball's greats in a laid-back atmosphere and enjoy their "baseball bloopers" film in the small theater.

Cultural attractions in Cooperstown include the Fenimore Art Museum and the Alice Busch Theater , which hosts the Glimmerglass Festival, an annual international opera event. There are also historic sites like Hyde Hall , once a sprawling colonial estate, as well as The Farmer's Museum , where life on Lippitt Farmstead and a historic village is brought to life.

Thousand Islands

Dotted all over a 50 mile stretch of the St. Lawrence River are thousands of little islands. They are located along a granite shelf extending from the Canadian Shield to the Adirondack Mountains in the United States, with the boundary actually running between the islands. It is an area of great scenic beauty any time of year, but especially vibrant in autumn during foliage season.

Operating between mid-May and mid-October, boat tours among the maze of islands show ever-changing vistas and include glimpses of holiday homes that range from the plainest of log cabins to the most luxurious of summer villas. One of the most amazing sights in the Thousand Islands is the stunning Boldt Castle dating from 1900.

The Adirondacks

The Adirondacks are a scenic range of forest-covered hills in northern New York state, with numerous lakes and recreational opportunities. The hills are part of the Canadian Shield and reach a height of over 5,000 feet.

The highest peak is Mount Marcy at 5,345 feet. The Adirondacks are a favorite holiday destination for New Yorkers. People come here to enjoy hiking, canoe on the extensive waterways, and relax at lakeside cottages and resorts in the Adirondacks .

This is a beautiful area to photograph in the fall, with an incredible display of New York autumn colors .

View over the Catskill Mountains

Another popular destination to experience nature in New York State is the Catskills. The rugged countryside of rolling hills and peaceful lakes is perfect for recharging your mental batteries. You can be as active as you like by undertaking activities like biking, canoeing, and hiking; or as lazy as you like by sitting by the pool, snoozing, or visiting the spa at one of the many top resorts in the Catskills.

In the winter, the Catskills transform into a snowy wonderland and draw skiers from far and wide to some of the finest ski resorts in New York .

Letchworth State Park

Letchworth State Park is home to three sets of waterfalls along the dramatic Genesee River Gorge. Steep cliff walls line the gorge, which is surrounded by forest, and it is often referred to as the "Grand Canyon of the East."

Middle Falls is the largest, with a 107-foot drop, and is illuminated at night from May through October. It's dubbed one of the best waterfalls in New York for good reason! Upper Falls is just as captivating, but only drops about 70 feet. It is surrounded by stunning rock cliffs and crossed by the photo-worthy Portage High Bridge.

The park offers a full range of facilities, from campsites and cabin rentals to trails, swimming, a playground, and concessions. Winter activities include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and designated snowmobile trails.

One of the most memorable experiences in Letchworth State Park is definitely the hot air balloon rides that soar high above the phenomenal landscape, offering views that truly can't be beat. Book one during fall for the most impressive display of Mother Nature's best color show.

Darwin D. Martin House Complex

Darwin and Isabelle Martin commissioned Frank Lloyd Wright to build a multi-structure complex in 1904, which he did at the height of his Prairie House era. It is considered by many to be his finest such work.

One of the top things to do in Buffalo , the house is open to the public and can be toured on either a Basic Tour or an In-Depth Tour, with guides who can direct viewers to the details and enhance visitors' understanding of the structure. Portions of the estate that were torn down over the years are being reconstructed.

Address: 125 Jewett Parkway, Buffalo, New York

Official site: www.darwinmartinhouse.org

Watkins Glen State Park

Watkins Glen is located at the southern tip of Seneca Lake within the Finger Lakes State Parks . The glen extends for two miles, dropping a total of 400 feet over 19 waterfalls, past 200-foot cliffs that were carved by the water.

In addition to admiring the gorge from its rim trails, visitors will find many things to do, including fishing, hiking, and even swimming in the park's Olympic-sized pool. The park has campsites for both tents and RVs, as well as picnic areas for day visitors. Guided tours of the gorge are available in season.

Official site: https://parks.ny.gov/parks/142/

George Eastman House in Rochester

The 50-room George Eastman mansion was completed in 1905 and originally included a stable, garage, barn, five greenhouses, and many gardens. Located in Rochester, the house has been restored to its appearance in the early 1900s, with photographs made by Eastman, as well as letters and notes that assisted in the restoration.

George Eastman House and the International Museum of Photography and Film

The outstanding International Museum of Photography and Film is located on the grounds and will be of interest to anyone with a passion for photography. The museum also showcases a number of traveling exhibits and movies on a regular basis. Be sure to check their website to see what's coming up.

Address: 900 East Avenue, Rochester, New York

Official site: https://www.eastman.org/

Ulster County Courthouse in Kingston, NY

Kingston is a quaint waterfront town that lies on the outskirts of the Catskills, about two hours north of Manhattan. It's a popular place to spend a weekend in New York , with a slew of fun things to do, especially during summer.

When the warm sun shines, this unassuming town really comes to life–in the form of outdoor concerts, festivals, and other fun events. Grab a bite on an outdoor patio by the Hudson River, hop on a cruise, or tour one of the area's multiple museums.

The Hudson River Museum is particularly interesting if you're a fan of all things nautical, while train lovers could spend hours in the Trolley Museum of New York .

Save time to practice a little retail therapy in the boutique shops Uptown , but do not miss a wander along the streets of the Stockade Historic District . This region is comprised of eight blocks of fairy-tale worthy buildings and so much charm, you'll want to stay longer.

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14 Tourist Trap Restaurants in NYC That Are Actually Good

Worth the time for visitors and locals

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Folks traveling to New York often want to live like a local for a few days, visiting the restaurants and bars where they can just blend in and avoid anything too touristy. But plenty of places across the boroughs blur the line between tourist trap and local safe haven.

The places on this map fill up regularly during primetime with tourists, but locals in the know will sneak in, too. Here now, a list of some of the biggest tourist destinations in New York that are worth a visit. Consider them the next time family or friends come to visit.

Health experts consider dining out to be a high-risk activity for the unvaccinated; it may pose a risk for the vaccinated, especially in areas with substantial COVID transmission.

Arthur Avenue Retail Market

This food hall and retail market has been open in the Bronx’s Little Italy since 1940, focused on classic Italian-American goods. Food runs from fresh mozzarella to overstuffed heroes, but Eater critic Robert Sietsema most highly recommends eating at charming Sicilian counter Café al Mercato for some focaccia sandwiches, tripe soup, baked pastas, and other hot entrees. Beyond food, find freshly rolled cigars, tons of dried pasta, craft beer, and even gardening supplies. To make the stop a full tour of the neighborhood, follow Sietsema’s walking guide .

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An indoor retail market with lots of food on display and customers sitting at wooden benches.

Open since 1962, Sylvia’s is a Harlem tradition — an essential restaurant, period, for classics like ribs, cornbread, fried chicken, and collards. What started as a luncheonette has expanded to over 200 seats with catering and remains a go-to for politicians and celebrities. Since founder Sylvia Woods died in 2012, the family has been running the business.

The packed, red-walled dining room of Sylvia’s with chairs and tables covered in white tablecloths.

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Gray's Papaya

The dogs at Gray’s , on the Upper West Side and open 24/7, have been widely loved for decades, particularly as a popular drunken stop for locals. With its Recession Special still going strong — two franks and a medium drink for $6.95 — it’s little wonder why.

The Gray’s Papaya sign shines in its bright yellow color while patrons inside order hot dogs.

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Magnolia Bakery

Magnolia has a reputation for cupcakes after Sex and the City made it famous. But that’s the rookie move — instead, go for the decadent banana pudding or an airy icebox cake.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Magnolia Bakery (@magnoliabakery) on Apr 4, 2019 at 11:43am PDT

The Halal Guys

Lines snake down the block constantly at this chicken and rice phenom . Its flagship cart sits on West 53rd Street off Sixth Avenue, prime location for tourists going to the Museum of Modern Art and the Midtown lunch crowd. Get the combo platter, and get the sauces.

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Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant

This oyster bar has reigned inside Grand Central’s subterranean space since 1913, and it welcomes commuters just as much as tourists daily. The smart move is to sit at the bar with a plate of raw oysters during the late lunch hour. Order the love-it-or-hate-it  oyster pan roast , and decide which side to choose.

A long underground bar with backed bar stools is set up under an arching tunneled ceiling with yellow glowing lights.

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Chelsea Market

An anchor of West Chelsea for more than 20 years, Chelsea Market is one of the city’s best food courts . It’s always a mob scene and it’s hard to find seating. But it’s a market that locals actually use, for both its stellar restaurant vendors — Ayada, Los Tacos No. 1, and Miznon rise above — and market stands.

Diners sit at a crowded counter enjoying Lobster Place’s raw bar.

John's of 12th Street

This red-sauce spot opened in 1908 and remains a restaurant from another era that we’re happy to revisit in real life and on TV (by way of “the Sopranos” and “Boardwalk Empire ” ). This onetime speakeasy made wine and booze in the basement and today pays homage to Italian American items like pasta fagioli, clams oreganata, chicken parm, or spaghetti and meatballs. It’s also a super vegan friendly menu.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by John's of 12th Street (@johnsof12thstreet)

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Veniero's Pastry

This Italian pastry shop has been going strong since 1894, where cannoli, tiramisu, sfogliatelle, and gelato are all required orders. Devotees of the bakery know to grab a table under the stained glass ceiling just before Veniero’s closes (midnight during the week, and 1 a.m. on weekends).

Dozens of assorted fruit tarts sit in a display case at Veniero’s in the East Village.

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Dominique Ansel Bakery

Ever heard of a little pastry called the Cronut? Suckers line up at 6 a.m. for the croissant-doughnut hybrid that took the world by storm — but locals know to go later in the day for pastry chef Dominique Ansel’s stellar kouign amann , frozen s’mores, or any of the other pastries in the case, really.

Pastry chef Dominique Ansel stands behind a counter while customers watch him assemble a dessert.

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This behemoth French brasserie from restaurateur Keith McNally has had a huge influence on the NYC dining scene. Its red leather banquettes, soft lighting, and bistro fare keep it serving one million meals every year . Rather than sit down for a full meal, head to the bar for some steak tartare and frites, wash it down with Champagne, and drink in the Balthazar experience.

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Russ & Daughters

Four generations of family ownership and over one hundred years of business give this place a certain sense of gravitas, but it’s the quality that keeps people coming back. Consider the Classic, a bagel with cream cheese and smoked salmon (maybe with tomato, capers, and onion, too). Take a peek behind the long counter as staff assembles your order. And if you want to try and pass for a local, don’t order your bagel toasted.

Pieces of salmon jut out of a bagel sandwich sliced in half, that’s placed on a white cermaic plate. A sign for Russ & Daughters hangs in the background.

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Katz's Delicatessen

Few sandwiches are as famous as a pastrami from Katz’s, and perhaps none have had quite the Hollywood treatment. Sure, it fills up to the brim in here daily, but New Yorkers know to file in near closing time, 11 p.m. most weekdays, midnight on Friday, or any time of night on Saturday (the only night it’s open 24 hours). Katz’s also serves one of the city’s best hot dogs, properly topped with sauerkraut and mustard.

The exterior of a lit-up Katz’s Delicatessen at night.

Nathan's Famous

It’s a fact that the dogs served at the original Nathan’s are superior to any from its many franchise locations. They are also better than many of the other hot dogs found in New York. Go on any day that isn’t the Fourth of July.

Customers wait in a line that wraps around the corner of the colorful Nathan’s Famous restaurant in Coney Island.

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Chasing Foxes

Chasing Foxes

12 Places to Visit in New York – A Local’s Guide & Their Tips

Posted: January 24, 2024 | Last updated: January 24, 2024

<p>There are so many places to visit in New York, but I see <strong>so many</strong> posts done by people who were there for just a couple of days. </p> <p><strong>And here’s the kind of advice they give:</strong> Visit Times Square, go see a show on Broadway, take a ferry, etc.</p> <p><strong>But then there are the locals who know the <em>perfect</em> places to visit in New York. </strong></p> <p>They’re the experts and literally every idea that I’ve shared from these New Yorkers has gone onto my Things to Do in New York bucket list.</p>

There are so many places to visit in New York, but I see so many posts done by people who were there for just a couple of days.

And here’s the kind of advice they give: Visit Times Square, go see a show on Broadway, take a ferry, etc.

But then there are the locals who know the  perfect places to visit in New York.

They’re the experts and literally every idea that I’ve shared from these New Yorkers has gone onto my Things to Do in New York bucket list.

<p class="has-medium-font-size"><strong><a href="https://www.monicafrancis.com/blog/best-new-things-to-do-in-new-york-city" rel="noreferrer noopener">Monica Francis</a> says…</strong></p><p>“Not many people make it up to Central Park’s <strong><a href="http://www.centralparknyc.org/things-to-see-and-do/attractions/conservatory-garden.html">Conservatory Garden</a> </strong>(Upper East Side), so it’s rarely busy. </p><p><strong>There are three beautiful formal gardens here:</strong> French, Italian, and English. </p><p>Wander through and choose your favorite, or just choose your favorite bench and settle in.”</p>

1. Conservatory Garden

Monica Francis says…

“Not many people make it up to Central Park’s Conservatory Garden (Upper East Side), so it’s rarely busy.

There are three beautiful formal gardens here: French, Italian, and English.

Wander through and choose your favorite, or just choose your favorite bench and settle in.”

<p>New York is apparently filled with jazz bars!</p><p class="has-medium-font-size"><strong>Here’s what a few locals are saying…</strong></p><p>“-I’ve been to <strong><a href="http://www.antiquegaragesoho.com/menu/" rel="noopener">Antique Garage</a></strong> in Soho that had live jazz and had a blast. The interior was so neat and since it was summer, the windows were open and you felt transformed into another place.”</p><p><strong>Another local named John adds,</strong> “For the Jazz soaking, I would also recommend <strong><a href="https://www.smallslive.com/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Small’s in West Village</a></strong>.”</p><p><strong>And lastly, Molly says, </strong>“<strong><a href="https://www.bluenotejazz.com/nyc/" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Blue Note</a></strong> is a famous spot and has wonderful shows (drinks too). Also, mentioned in the guide is <strong><a href="https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/the-carlyle-new-york/dining/bemelmans-bar" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bemelman’s Bar</a></strong>, which features live jazz along with famous (excellent) cocktails on the Upper East Side.”</p>

2. The Jazz Bars

New York is apparently filled with jazz bars!

Here’s what a few locals are saying…

“-I’ve been to  Antique Garage in Soho that had live jazz and had a blast. The interior was so neat and since it was summer, the windows were open and you felt transformed into another place.”

Another local named John adds, “For the Jazz soaking, I would also recommend Small’s in West Village .”

And lastly, Molly says, “ The Blue Note is a famous spot and has wonderful shows (drinks too). Also, mentioned in the guide is Bemelman’s Bar , which features live jazz along with famous (excellent) cocktails on the Upper East Side.”

<p class="has-medium-font-size"><strong>Monica also adds this New York tip:</strong></p><p>“The jumbled streets of the West Village are perfect for getting lost on purpose and stumbling upon plenty of classic New York vignettes. If you don’t bring a camera here, you’ll regret it.”</p>

3. West Village

Monica also adds this New York tip:

“The jumbled streets of the West Village are perfect for getting lost on purpose and stumbling upon plenty of classic New York vignettes. If you don’t bring a camera here, you’ll regret it.”

<p>“Every morning, dozens of shops in the <strong><a href="https://www.gardenista.com/posts/how-to-navigate-the-nyc-flower-market/" rel="noreferrer noopener">flower district</a></strong> fill the sidewalks of 28th Street with fresh blooms and branches. Pick up a bouquet for your hotel room, buy armfuls of florals for a party, or just admire the scene.” – <strong>Monica</strong></p>

4. The Flower District

“Every morning, dozens of shops in the flower district fill the sidewalks of 28th Street with fresh blooms and branches. Pick up a bouquet for your hotel room, buy armfuls of florals for a party, or just admire the scene.” – Monica

<p><strong><a href="https://cupofjo.com/2017/12/07/best-winter-activities-in-new-york-city/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cup of Jo</a>, </strong>a blog run by Joanna Godard, is one of my favorite places to relax and read. And because she’s a blogger who hails from New York + always has great tips, <strong>I trust her advice here…</strong> </p><p><strong>She says this about Balthazar</strong>, “Soho’s famous, bustling, never-gets-old French brasserie, anytime of day or night.”</p>

5. Balthazar

Cup of Jo , a blog run by Joanna Godard, is one of my favorite places to relax and read. And because she’s a blogger who hails from New York + always has great tips, I trust her advice here…

She says this about Balthazar , “Soho’s famous, bustling, never-gets-old French brasserie, anytime of day or night.”

<p class="has-medium-font-size"><strong>So where is this Greek tavern? A local New Yorker answered:</strong></p><p>“… in Chinatown, where incredible food is served in an old paper shop that feels like a secret haunt.”</p><p>A Greek tavern in Chinatown with some <em>incredible </em>reviews, and a cool location. </p><p>It’s now on my New York to-do list.</p>

6. Kiki’s Greek Tavern

So where is this Greek tavern? A local New Yorker answered:

“… in Chinatown, where incredible food is served in an old paper shop that feels like a secret haunt.”

A Greek tavern in Chinatown with some incredible reviews, and a cool location.

It’s now on my New York to-do list.

<p class="has-medium-font-size"><strong>Insider Tip from Briar:</strong></p><p>“One of the best things we did was book a pay-what-you-like food walking tour around Lower East Side (where we were staying). </p><p>It sounded ridiculous at the time, but we basically ran from a delicious steaming food stop to delicious steaming food stop. </p><p>It helped us find the closest and tastiest food near us, which was an excellent motivator to leave our cozy beds, and gave us somewhere reliable to eat on our way home late, with cold feet and grumbling tummies!”</p><p><strong><a href="https://www.freetoursbyfoot.com/new-york-tours/#food" rel="noreferrer noopener">Here’s a link to the tour.</a></strong></p>

7. Lower East Side Pay-What-You-Like Walking Food Tour

Insider Tip from Briar:

“One of the best things we did was book a pay-what-you-like food walking tour around Lower East Side (where we were staying).

It sounded ridiculous at the time, but we basically ran from a delicious steaming food stop to delicious steaming food stop.

It helped us find the closest and tastiest food near us, which was an excellent motivator to leave our cozy beds, and gave us somewhere reliable to eat on our way home late, with cold feet and grumbling tummies!”

Here’s a link to the tour.

<p class="has-medium-font-size"><strong>I had no idea that the Loeb Boathouse existed but it needs to be done. Thank you <a href="https://witwhimsy.com/favorite-spring-spots-new-york-city/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wit & Whimsey</a> for this idea!</strong></p><p>“There’s something so magical about some of the first Central Park days of the season. You still need a light jacket but the temperatures are perfect for long (she’s writign this in spring), carefree strolls and The Boathouse is the ideal landing spot when you want to rest your feet and have a cocktail on their terrace overlooking the boat pond. Some of my favorite afternoons have been spent doing just that with nowhere to go afterward. It’s pure bliss. (Highly recommend going to Sprinkles Ice Cream afterward for a spring treat. I just went and am mildly obsessed.)”</p>

8. The Loeb Boathouse

I had no idea that the Loeb Boathouse existed but it needs to be done. Thank you Wit & Whimsey for this idea!

“There’s something so magical about some of the first Central Park days of the season. You still need a light jacket but the temperatures are perfect for long (she’s writign this in spring), carefree strolls and The Boathouse is the ideal landing spot when you want to rest your feet and have a cocktail on their terrace overlooking the boat pond. Some of my favorite afternoons have been spent doing just that with nowhere to go afterward. It’s pure bliss. (Highly recommend going to Sprinkles Ice Cream afterward for a spring treat. I just went and am mildly obsessed.)”

<p class="has-medium-font-size"><strong>Sam from <a href="https://findloveandtravel.com/4-days-in-new-york-itinerary/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Find Love and Travel </a>says…</strong></p><p>“The Edge, known as one of the best Sky Decks in NYC! It just opened in 2020 and is known as the highest outdoor sky deck in the West Hemisphere!</p><p>Make your way to the 100th story where you will enjoy unobstructed views of the Manhattan skyline along with a partial glass bottom deck.”</p>

9. The Edge

Sam from Find Love and Travel says…

“The Edge, known as one of the best Sky Decks in NYC! It just opened in 2020 and is known as the highest outdoor sky deck in the West Hemisphere!

Make your way to the 100th story where you will enjoy unobstructed views of the Manhattan skyline along with a partial glass bottom deck.”

<p class="has-medium-font-size"><strong>Another New York Insider Tip from Sam:</strong> </p><p>“If you happen to be visiting New York around the holidays, the Hudson Yards does a great light display you won’t want to miss.”</p>

10. The Hudson Yards

Another New York Insider Tip from Sam:

“If you happen to be visiting New York around the holidays, the Hudson Yards does a great light display you won’t want to miss.”

<p class="has-medium-font-size"><strong><a href="https://tobebright.com/top-10-farmers-markets-in-nyc/" rel="noreferrer noopener">To Be Bright </a>gave a great recommendation for a farmer’s market and since I love going to them, I thought I’d pass it your way:</strong></p><p>“Dubbed “Bay Ridge’s Town Hall,” long-time residents and families who are <span>new</span> to the neighborhood meet to shop, share recipes and catch up with their neighbors at this Greenmarket that provides a gathering space for the tight-knit Bay Ridge community. A great selection of producers providing everything from fresh caught fish, baked goods, and a bounty of seasonal fruit, vegetables, and flowers draw shoppers week after week, all season long.”</p>

11. Bay Ridge Greenmarket

To Be Bright gave a great recommendation for a farmer’s market and since I love going to them, I thought I’d pass it your way:

“Dubbed “Bay Ridge’s Town Hall,” long-time residents and families who are  new to the neighborhood meet to shop, share recipes and catch up with their neighbors at this Greenmarket that provides a gathering space for the tight-knit Bay Ridge community. A great selection of producers providing everything from fresh caught fish, baked goods, and a bounty of seasonal fruit, vegetables, and flowers draw shoppers week after week, all season long.”

<p class="has-medium-font-size"><strong>I love bicycling and especially when I don’t have to deal with traffic, so I really appreciate this tip from <a href="https://www.theblondeabroad.com/locals-guide-to-new-york-city/" rel="noopener"><span><strong> <a href="http://www.danaberez.com/">Dana Berez</a></strong></span></a>: </strong></p><p>“One of my favorite things to do is bike along the West Side Highway. This path spans from downtown Manhattan all the way to the Upper West Side.</p><p><strong>The best part? </strong>There is no car traffic on this path so it’s perfect for getting used to biking in NYC.”</p>

12. Bike Along the West Side Highway

I love bicycling and especially when I don’t have to deal with traffic, so I really appreciate this tip from   Dana Berez : 

“One of my favorite things to do is bike along the West Side Highway. This path spans from downtown Manhattan all the way to the Upper West Side.

The best part? There is no car traffic on this path so it’s perfect for getting used to biking in NYC.”

<p>This one is my personal recommendation. I know I’m not a local, but I had to share at least one recommendation. :)</p><p>Celebrity chef Dominique Ansel is famous for perfecting the “cronut,” a mix between a croissant and a doughnut.</p><p>We had heard about its incredibly flaky layers and perfect flavors so we decided to give it a try. I was actually concerned that it wasn’t going to be that great, but it <em><strong>actually</strong></em> lived up to the hype.</p><p>The flavors change every so often and if I remember correctly (this was back in December of 2019), we had a cream cheese chocolate cronut.</p><p>And if that’s not something you really want, then I definitely recommend going anyway. They have a <strong>huge</strong> assortment of different pastries and goodies curated by an expert French pastry chef. 👌</p><p>Post Originally Published on Chasing Foxes.</p>

Bonus: Dominique Ansel Bakery

This one is my personal recommendation. I know I’m not a local, but I had to share at least one recommendation. :)

Celebrity chef Dominique Ansel is famous for perfecting the “cronut,” a mix between a croissant and a doughnut.

We had heard about its incredibly flaky layers and perfect flavors so we decided to give it a try. I was actually concerned that it wasn’t going to be that great, but it actually lived up to the hype.

The flavors change every so often and if I remember correctly (this was back in December of 2019), we had a cream cheese chocolate cronut.

And if that’s not something you really want, then I definitely recommend going anyway. They have a huge assortment of different pastries and goodies curated by an expert French pastry chef. 👌

Post Originally Published on Chasing Foxes.

<p>If you’re looking for some incredible travel locations, or want to be inspired, then these 3 places are going to give you some serious wanderlust!</p><p><strong>Read Here: </strong><a href="https://www.chasingfoxes.com/3-places-that-will-make-you-go-i-kind-of-need-to-book-tickets-right-now/"><strong>3 Places That Will Make You Go, “I Need to Book Tickets Right Now.”</strong></a></p>

3 Places That Will Make You Go, “I Need to Book Tickets Right Now.”

If you’re looking for some incredible travel locations, or want to be inspired, then these 3 places are going to give you some serious wanderlust!

Read Here: 3 Places That Will Make You Go, “I Need to Book Tickets Right Now.”

<p>San Miguel de Allende is an absolute <em>gem</em> in central Mexico. </p><p>Safe, incredibly beautiful, kind people, and such good food; <strong>it’s no wonder so many retirees have moved here!</strong></p><p><strong>Read Here:<a href="https://www.chasingfoxes.com/my-trip-to-san-miguel-de-allende-personal-tips-when-visiting/" rel="noreferrer noopener"> My Trip to San Miguel de Allende & Personal Tips When Visiting</a></strong></p>

My Trip to San Miguel de Allende & Personal Tips When Visiting

San Miguel de Allende is an absolute gem in central Mexico.

Safe, incredibly beautiful, kind people, and such good food; it’s no wonder so many retirees have moved here!

Read Here: My Trip to San Miguel de Allende & Personal Tips When Visiting

<p>Riads are traditional Moroccan inns, and if you’d like to relax in the calm courtyard of a beautiful space, and enjoy incredible food and amazing service, then this is the place to go!</p><p><strong>Read Here:</strong> <strong><a href="https://www.chasingfoxes.com/le-riad-yasmine-a-hidden-oasis-in-morocco/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Le Riad Yasmine: A Dreamy Travel Location in Morocco</a></strong></p>

Le Riad Yasmine: A Dreamy Travel Location in Morocco

Riads are traditional Moroccan inns, and if you’d like to relax in the calm courtyard of a beautiful space, and enjoy incredible food and amazing service, then this is the place to go!

Read Here: Le Riad Yasmine: A Dreamy Travel Location in Morocco

<p>If you love Mexican food and you want to know the <strong>best</strong> locations to get incredible dishes in Mexico, then I’ve got you covered!</p><p><strong>Read Here: <a href="https://www.chasingfoxes.com/foodie-mexico/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Your Foodie Mexico Guide: 17 Places for the Best Food</a></strong></p>

Your Foodie Mexico Guide: 17 Places for The Best Food

If you love Mexican food and you want to know the best locations to get incredible dishes in Mexico, then I’ve got you covered!

Read Here: Your Foodie Mexico Guide: 17 Places for the Best Food

<p>If you love beautiful desserts and a fun location, then this cafe needs to be on your list!</p><p>The food was great, the drinks were delicious, and I would probably make a pilgrimage to this cafe once a year if I could!</p><p><strong>Read Here: <a href="https://www.chasingfoxes.com/this-cafe-gave-me-my-yearly-dose-of-estrogen-and-im-not-complaining/" rel="noreferrer noopener">This Cafe Gave Me My Yearly Dose of Estrogen (And I’m Not Complaining)</a></strong></p>

This Cafe Gave Me My Yearly Dose of Estrogen (And I’m Not Complaining)

If you love beautiful desserts and a fun location, then this cafe needs to be on your list!

The food was great, the drinks were delicious, and I would probably make a pilgrimage to this cafe once a year if I could!

Read Here: This Cafe Gave Me My Yearly Dose of Estrogen (And I’m Not Complaining)

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Mt. Marcy and Hudson River At Dusk In The Adirondacks Region

Adirondacks

Places to go in new york.

New York State is  historic . It's untamed. It's iconic. But more importantly, it's anything you want it to be. From the lights of Times Square to the mists of Niagara Falls , Lake Placid 's Olympic legacy to Cooperstown 's baseball roots, Albany's 400-year history to Jamestown 's comedy treasures, the castles of the Thousand Islands to Long Island 's  Gold Coast mansions , the  Hudson Valley 's inspiring landscapes to the Catskills' sweeping mountain views and stunning  Finger Lakes  wine country— there’s something for everyone. 

With top attractions that are totally worth the hype , like the Statue of Liberty  and Strong National Museum of Play , unique experiences  and hidden gem destinations  there's no shortage of places to explore in New York.

Whether you're looking for a day trip,  weekend escape , romantic getaway , or budget-friendly trips , find travel inspiration and itineraries by exploring our 11 unique vacation regions below and discover what it is that you LOVE about New York.

Choose your region

From the foothills of Lake George, to peaks near the Canadian border: the Adirondack Mountains! more

Capital-Saratoga

Discover culinary delights, stunning scenery, world-class culture, and events year round! more

Explore beauty and adventure in the outdoors. The Catskills are your mountain getaway! more

Central New York

From state parks to a National Hall of Fame, an extraordinary beverage trail and caverns! more

Chautauqua-Allegheny

NY's southwest has great outdoors, local wines, and the National Comedy Center! more

Finger Lakes

Eleven pristine lakes surrounded by natural beauty, top attractions, events, and wine trails! more

Greater Niagara

Full of awesome adventures and cultural treasures; there's so much to see and do in Western NY! more

Hudson Valley

A Top 20 Must See Destination: Find events, year-round sports, and wineries amid great beauty! more

Long Island

From famous white-sand beaches to world-class wineries, there is something for everyone! more

New York City

Find the very best of everything: arts, culture, museums, shopping, food, and more! more

Thousand Islands-Seaway

Discover this freshwater paradise for sightseeing and recreation! more

Show some love for New York State

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Boldt Castle located in Alexandria Bay, New York.

  • 9 Most Charming River Towns in Upstate New York to Visit in 2024

Upstate New York is home to charming towns with stunning landscapes that leave you in awe of nature. Lovers of the outdoors will fall in love with Upstate New York because there are many activities to do in this region where the Adirondack and Catskill Mountains are situated. 

This part of the United States differs from other parts of New York because of its rural and country features. If you are looking to have fun in a quiet and reserved town with endless beauty and timeless history, here are nine charming low-population towns near the river to visit in 2024. There is a lot to see and do in these towns for solo travelers, families, and friends. Come along with your hiking boots because there are many trails to discover.

Coeymans, New York.

Coeymans, New York. By Dougtone - Flickr , CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

The Hudson River marks the eastern town line of Coeymans. It was named after an early settler who was a patent holder of the area. In 1800, the town had a population of 400. In 2024, it has a population of 7256. From nature parks to historic homes, you are in for a fun time here.

Spend time at Joralemon Park. Enjoy the view of the park from under the pavilion or go hiking along the several miles of walking trail through the woods. Finished from the park, go on a guided walking tour, stopping by Mull House and Cemetery, Tobias Ten Eyck House and Cemeteries, and Coeymans-Bronck Stone House. Bring your day to an end by checking out the Valley Paper Mill Park in Alcove, which is 14 minutes from Coeymans. 

Landscape view of the corner of Main Street and South Street in Beacon, New York, USA.

Beacon was named in honor of the Beacon fires that blazed from the Fishkill mountain, alerting the Continental Army of the British troop movements. Beyond its history, Beacon is a beautiful river town worth visiting.

It is home to one of the largest museums in the United States, the Dia Beacon Museum. Go to the town's Main Street and join the long line of antiquers to hunt for rare antiques or savor the beautiful waterfront view of the waterfall of Fishkill Creek that runs through the area. Hiking up Mt. Beacon on the railway trail. Visit Beacon Historical Society to relish the rich, preserved tale of the town. If you are interested in glass sculpting, you should visit Hudson Beach Glass for classes and glass product shopping. Go to Scenic Hudson's Long Dock Park to get a beautiful view of the Hudson River while taking an evening stroll.

Westport, New York, situated on the shore of Lake Champlain in New York State.

Westport is Located within the Adirondack Park. It stands as the birthplace of the Adirondack Chair. This picturesque river town has an eastern borderline formed by Lake Champlain. Get access to lake-side dining, hiking, biking, boating, and golfing. 

As the birthplace of the "Adirondack Chair." You get access to lakeside dining, hiking, biking, and golfing opportunities here.

Follow the Lee Park Trail hike up to the Hoisington Brook Cascade, a little fall under a stone bridge. Other trails to look out for are the Art Farm Trail, Long Valley Trail, Champlain Area Trails, and Field and Forest Trail.

Canandaigua

Main Street in downtown Canandaigua, New York.

Main Street in downtown Canandaigua, New York. Editorial credit: Ritu Manoj Jethani / Shutterstock.com

On the northern end of the Canandaigua Lake is the beautiful town of Canandaigua . The Finger Lake region of New York is known for its astonishing waterfront view, and Canandaigua is not left out. 

It is littered with small quaint shops, historic places, fine dining, and an amazing waterfront view. From swimming to boating, the town stands true to the meaning of its name, “the Chosen Spot.” Here are some places to look out for when you visit: Kershaw Park for picnics and relaxation, Granger Homestead & Carriage House Museum for a fun time-traveling historical experience, Canandaigua Lake Wine Trail for finger-licking meals and wine-tasting, etc. In the downtown area, visit the Canandaigua Farmers' Market on a Saturday for some farm produce shopping. Enjoy water activities like boating and fishing at The Canandaigua City Pier.

Poughkeepsie

Aerial perspective capturing the sunset over Poughkeepsie.

Aerial perspective capturing the sunset over Poughkeepsie.

Once called "The Queen City of the Hudson," Poughkeepsie is one New York town worth visiting in 2024. Shortly after the American Revolution , this city served as the second capital of the state.

Once recognized as the World's longest pedestrian bridge in the world until it was overthrown in October 2016, the Walkway over the Hudson is a sight to behold. It offers pedestrians the opportunity to enjoy the astonishing view of the Hudson River.

Explore the shops in the Downtown area and mingle with the locals and other tourists during your shopping spree. Go on a scenic drive at night on the Mid-Hudson Bridge and revel in the view of the river. Relish delicacies at Rossi Rosticceria Deli. The Poughkeepsie Public Library District is not just a library; it is an architectural site listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

A landscape view of the shops and restaurants along West Strand Street in The Rondout, Kingston's historic waterfront, captured in Kingston, New York, USA.

Kingston is a town rich in history and culture. It lies on the west side of the Hudson River, about 54 miles south of Albany City .

Its story dates back to the 1700s when it became New York’s capital. Eventually, it was destroyed by fire during the infamous Saratoga campaign  in the American Revolutionary War.

However, that did not end the town’s story. It later became a commercial town when cement was found in a part of the community. 

Kingston is packed full of diners, parks, museums, and shops where travelers can get all-round pleasure when in town. Visit the Hudson River Maritime Museum to see Mathilda, the 1898 steam tugboat, and several other notable boats. Take your kids to the Forsyth Park Playground, go with friends, or go solo and participate in sports activities like basketball, tennis, and baseball. At the Forsyth Nature Center, families and friends will have a great time learning about the different species of birds and reptiles.

Alexandria Bay

 The view of The Power House and Clock Tower of Boldt Castle on the St. Lawrence River in Alexandria Bay, New York, USA.

The picturesque Alexandria Bay is located in the Thousand Islands Region of Northern New York. This village has more to offer than beauty; a lot of history is built into the walls of the sites here. 

Starting from the Boldt Castle, a 120-room mansion built by George C. Boldt for his wife Louise, who unfortunately did not live to see its completion. It is open from May to October. Check it out if you are in town during that period.

The next stop is the Longue Vue Island, the only artificial island in the region. Explore the entire island and discover secrets that will lead you to the Ghosts that have been said to haunt the island. If you are in town in April, go wine-tasting at Dark Island Spirits.

Mohonk Lake in the Catskill Mountains of New York State.

On the west side of the Hudson River is the beautiful Catskill village. From its main street to the Rip Van Winkle Bridge, there is a lot to see and do in this small, quaint area. The town has a population of less than 5000 people, offering visitors a peaceful and relaxing holiday.

The Rip Van Winkle Bridge is a six-mile bridge that runs over the Hudson River, connecting the Hudson town to Catskill. On the bridge, there is a pedestrian walkway that allows cyclists and hikers access to two monuments, the homes of two of Hudson’s River School Painters. Also, check out the Hudson River Skywalk while you are there. Enjoy the river view and a taste of history. 

Croton-On-Hudson

Sunrise over Croton Dam, NY, with its stepped spillway waterfall. The long exposure captures a smooth and silky effect on the falling water, creating an artistic ambiance.

Sunrise over Croton Dam, NY, with its stepped spillway waterfall. The long exposure captures a smooth and silky effect on the falling water, creating an artistic ambiance.

On the Hudson River's shores is another New York village you should look out for. Once called the town of Cortlandt but was later renamed Croton-On-Hudson. You should plan your visit to coincide with any of the annual events organized here, like Clearwater's Great Hudson River Revival, which is usually held in June.

Visit the New Croton Dam that stretches over the Croton River. The mountainous area around the dam offers a lot of recreational activities, from picnicking to cross-country skiing. This area is constantly booming, and life is going all year round. Croton Point Park is one of the largest parks in Westchester County. The park offers visitors cross-country skiing, hiking, walking, and fishing opportunities. Learn the town’s history at Van Cortlandt Manor Museum.

Discover Upstate New York's Hidden Highlights

Upstate New York comprises welcoming, nature-rich towns with charming landscapes and unending pleasurable activities for people of all ages. You can add each of these towns to your travel bucket list of places to go in 2024. You will learn about the history of these small towns and also discover new trails and piers. There’s a long list of things to do. Pack your bags and begin your adventure today.

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"That Was 20 Years Ago, And I’m Sure It's Even Worse Now": People Are Sharing The Popular Travel Destinations They Did Not Enjoy

"The most fascinating part of the whole vacation was realizing that many people live for this place. The crowds…the prices…the lines. Never again for us."

Hannah Loewentheil

BuzzFeed Staff

When you travel to a new place, you probably leave home with high expectations. After all, you never know — you could be embarking upon your new favorite destination. But chances are, you haven't been head over heels for every locale you've visited.

Julia Roberts in a jacket over a floral top looking away against a cityscape background

So I asked the BuzzFeed Community to tell me about a destination that left them feeling underwhelmed. Here's what people said, along with comments from some redditors who love to travel.

1. "san francisco. the city was so crowded, i didn’t like the food, and the homelessness we saw all around us was extremely sad.".

Chinatown in San Francisco

2. "Virginia Beach. I love beaches, but Virginia Beach was murky and way overcrowded, and there was not much to do. It’s also near a military base, so having the constant military planes overhead was just unnerving."

Crowded beach with people sunbathing and umbrellas, adjacent to a walkway

— Chocolateboujie

3. "New York City. I remember coming up the escalator from Penn Station and immediately smelling pee. I recall walking streets that were lined with huge piles of stinky trash bags. It was so dirty everywhere, I was afraid to touch anything. That was 20 years ago, and I’m sure it's even worse now."

People walking across a street in NYC

— mellowswan58

4. "Cabo San Lucas. There were massive ships blocking the horizon, panhandlers who would stand in front of you so you couldn’t see the ocean, and hordes of people getting in the way at every snorkeling spot. There were beach chairs packed like sardines. I love other parts of Mexico, but Cabo was generally an underwhelming experience."

Cabo San Lucas Marina as seen from a resort

5. "Venice. This Italian city was so crowded and overrun with tourists that I couldn't even stop to enjoy the sights and experiences around me."

People sitting at an outdoor café in a busy square with an ornate building in the background

— alyssiadspence

6. "Disney World. My whole family was so excited about this Florida vacation, and we could not wait to get there. But we spent more money than planned (we still can’t even stomach how much we spent), we fought more as a family than we ever had, and we stood in line after line after line. The most fascinating part of the whole vacation was realizing that many people live for this place. The crowds…the prices…the lines. Never again for us."

Cinderella Castle at Disney World with visitors in front, clear sky

7. "Bora Bora in French Polynesia. Yes, it’s so beautiful, but there’s really nothing to do beyond the beach. And you have to stay at one of the super-expensive resorts to actually make a trip there worthwhile. The other destinations in the Society Islands were more fun and still just as gorgeous."

Overwater bungalows extend from a wooden pier into a calm sea under a sunny sky

8. "Egypt. I was so excited to go, but it was the worst place I’ve ever traveled to. Everyone tried to scam me relentlessly, from the airport clerk to the taxi drivers and the pyramids tour guide. People will tell you they recognize you from the day before, and they'll try to get you to ride their donkey and follow you even when you say multiple times that you’re not interested. It was impossible to walk half a block from my hotel to try to buy water without people constantly stopping me trying to get money in some way and some form. It was absolutely exhausting."

The Great Pyramids of Giza with tourists and camel rides in the foreground

— poeticfish417

9. "Tulum, Mexico. It has beautiful beaches but is otherwise completely devoid of character. It's expensive and boring (unless your only goal is to party with other tourists)."

Beach with visitors below ancient ruins, clear sky, and a traditional hut on the left

— coolmug64

10. "Sydney. I found it to be a very boring city. I hate that I wasted so much of my time in Australia there. Bondi Beach was just okay, and seeing the iconic landmarks like the Opera House felt like checking things off a box. After that, I wasn't sure how to spend my time. The city has no personality. As soon as I hopped on a train west, I saw incredible landscapes and met truly genuine folks. You can do Sydney in a day or two. I wish I’d headed into the bush the minute my plane landed."

Crowded beach with people sunbathing and swimming, cityscape in the background

11. "Bali. This Indonesian island is still great in many ways, but it is increasingly overrun by obnoxious tourists and expats. I'm talking vapid, entitled influencer (or wannabe influencer) kinds of tourists/expats who wait in long lines to take selfies at historical/spiritual sites that they don't bother to learn anything about."

Beach scene with people on bean bags under umbrellas at sunset

12. "Amsterdam. It was so crowded, chaotic, and easy to get run over by other tourists on bikes who've never ridden before. I feel like it's romanticized a lot, but the first time I visited, I was genuinely disappointed. It's definitely dirty on the streets, and the canals have a lot of waste drifting in them."

Street view with people cycling and walking, historical buildings, and a church with twin spires

— u/Marveloes

13. "Paris. What a colossally overrated city. I’ve always heard that Paris syndrome was a real thing, but I wasn’t prepared for how disappointed I was actually going to feel after visiting. The crowds were atrocious, the locals are not friendly, to say the least (even though I could speak some French), and everything was absolutely filthy. And this is all coming from a San Francisco native!"

A bustling city street scene at night with illuminated shop signs and a crowd of pedestrians

14. "Portland, Oregon. My best friend and I drove across the country from Florida to Washington, stopping for national parks, iconic eateries, and more. We read so many good things about Portland online, but in reality, it was one of the most depressing places I’ve ever seen. The hotel itself was awesome, but outside those doors, the downtown area was awful. There was tons of open drug use, naked people on the sidewalk, and the smell of bodily fluids everywhere. It was too much. We saw other parts of Oregon and loved it (especially Cannon Beach), but Portland was a major disappointment."

The sun sets over a busy avenue in downtown Portland

15. "Santorini was pretty disappointing, in my opinion. I feel like the photos I've seen online must have been photoshopped. I expected beautiful views but ended up having to crop graffiti and dirty buildings from the backgrounds of my pictures. It was also so expensive. The cheapest lunch option I found was a small wrap for 11 euros. It really felt like a tourist trap. Rhodes, on the other hand, was gorgeous and affordable. This island was home to beautiful beaches and old medieval buildings. I would avoid spending much time in Santorini, considering how much more expensive it is than other, equally beautiful Greek islands."

Crowd of people gathered in Santorini overlooking the sea and islands

16. "The Alhambra in Granada, Spain. It was so crowded, especially considering how small it actually is. I’d seen so many photos of the Alhambra where it looked so stunning, and I envisioned it being this serene palace. In reality, though, it was beyond packed with tour groups. Perhaps this is a good instance of how inaccurately social media can represent popular tourist destinations."

Group of people under an ornate archway, looking toward a building&#x27;s intricate facade

17. "Atlantis in the Bahamas. You have this image of a luxury resort before visiting, but upon arrival, you find this incredibly overcrowded place (and that’s *before* the cruise people arrive and completely take over the property during daytime hours). Anytime there was an issue with service, they would blame it on 'island time.' If one more person said the phrase 'island time,' I was going to lose it. We had thousand-dollar excursions, private cabanas, and dinner reservations all cut short due to island time. Paradise Island was beautiful, but we're never going back to Atlantis."

Atlantis Caribbean beach resort, with white sand coastline

18. "Naples. I did a big European trip after college and spent about a month in Italy. Naples was EASILY the worst place we visited. Seedy, run-down, trashy, unsafe, you name it. Would never go back."

The busy corner with street vendors between Via San Gregorio Armeno and Via San Biagio dei Librai in Naples

— u/ wanna_meet_that_dad

19. "Barcelona was disappointing to me. If you aren't a big drinker and don't want to do a lot of shopping, the city is kind of boring. Spend a day on the beach and another day touring, and you've pretty much done it all. That being said, going to La Sagrada Família was incredible. It made the rest of the boring trip totally worthwhile."

Crowded urban street with pedestrians walking, trees lining the path, and kiosks on the sides

20. "Nashville. Traffic is a nightmare, and you cannot enjoy the downtown area because it is so loud. All of the bars have music blaring out into the street, and it just blends together into one high-decibel sound wave. Not to mention, there are people who are homeless passed out in the middle of the sidewalks. The city reeks of urine and sewage, and on weekends, you cannot even walk without getting bumped into. Don’t even get me started on all the party buses, tractors, and pedal taverns that further congest things and add to the noise, with everyone in town for sorority events and bachelorette parties."

A busy street at night with neon signs and crowds in Nashville

21. "Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. It's very artificial feeling, and the whole city has a crowded amusement park feel. There's nothing eye-catching. It feels like a lesser clone of Singapore."

Aerial view of Dubai Marina futuristic skyline with a man-made lake in the middle

— gabrielavillegasn

22. " Las Vegas , for me. I know it's a very popular tourist spot in the US, but I just can't stand going there. Like most people, I was excited to go at first, but just taking a big whiff of the air there makes me gag now. The streets can be really dirty, and traffic is terrible. It is really dry, and I personally can't stand not being near a body of water."

Las Vegas at night

— UncleBenjamin

23. "The Big Island of Hawaii . I recently went on a trip to the island. So many people rave about the views and the hiking trails past beautiful waterfalls. I was there for two weeks and spent roughly half of my time driving. Any waterfall 'hikes' were more aptly just short walks from the parking lot and up a couple of stairs. The volcanoes were cool, the weather was nice, and the views were okay, but I don’t think I would spend the time or the money to go back."

Visitors beside a rocky stream with a waterfall in a lush landscape

24. "Costa Rica. This country felt like a tourist trap. In many places, you have no option but to stay at an all-inclusive resort and purchase travel packages for adventure sports like zip lining, horseback riding, and more. There isn't much opportunity to deviate from these packages, and it's also very expensive. I felt that it was hard to learn anything about the local or Indigenous culture."

A person zip lining over trees and rainforest

Do you have something to add? Tell us in the comments or drop your thoughts into this Google form .

Note: Some entries have been edited for length and/or clarity.

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5 things to know about only Florida spot on New York Times list of places to see in 2024

tourist place new york

A South Florida city many may not have heard of has made the New York Times list of 52 places to go in 2024. 

Squeaking in at No. 52, Flamingo was the only Florida location was on the New York Times list.

Here's what New York Times had to say about Flamingo

"Rediscover a beloved lodge in the heart of the Everglades " with the reopening of the Flamingo Lodge, along with a renovated visitor center and restaurant.

"The return of the beloved facilities, along with glamping 'eco-tents,' has given birders, stargazers and anglers a reason to reconnect with the outpost of Flamingo, on mainland Florida’s southernmost tip and less than two hours by car from Miami.

"And if you’re lucky, you may spot flamingos in Florida Bay," the New York Times said.

Gem close to Naples: New York Times 'Best Places to Go' list for 2024 includes this Florida gem close to Naples

Here are 5 things to know about Flamingo.

Where is Flamingo, Florida?

Flamingo is located on the southernmost tip of Florida within Everglades National Park. 

Here's how far Flamingo is from several South Florida cities:

  • 84 miles from Miami
  • 87 miles from Naples
  • 107 miles from Fort Lauderdale

What can you find in Flamingo?

Flamingo is "one of world's premier destinations for wildlife viewing and outdoor recreation, " according to Flamingo Adventures.

Florida Lodge accommodations

The Flamingo Lodge and Restaurant offers 24 "breathtaking" new lodging rooms, along with an indoor/outdoor restaurant, all as you're surrounded by the Everglades, according to Flamingo Adventures .

Alternative accommodations include staying in a houseboat, an eco-tent , or one of the area campgrounds.

The Guy Bradley Visitor Center offers information from park rangers, educational displays, informational brochures, a gift shop, and backcountry permits. Campground facilities , a public boat ramp and a marina store. Hiking and canoeing trails are located near the visitor center, according to the National Park Service.

What can you do in Flamingo?

You can rent bicycles, canoes, kayaks, and motorboats and even houseboats.

Don't want to go out alone? Take a 90-minute boat tour with a naturalist or park ranger. Tours include a backcountry tour to Whitewater Bay or a tour of Florida Bay, according to the National Park Service.

Camping in the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Wilderness requires advance reservations. 

Get ready to unplug in Flamingo

Reception and WiFi are unreliable in Flamingo, according to the Park Service. "Generally, AT&T is the only cell service provider with signal anywhere west of Nine Mile Pond."

There is public wifi available inside the Guy Bradley Visitor Center but it doesn't extend to outside and it's available only when the center is open.

Flamingo on social media

What other us locations made new york times list.

U.S. locations specifically mentioned among the top 52 locations to visit in 2024 were:

  • Maui, Hawaii
  • Crates of the Moon, Idaho
  • Baltimore, Maryland
  • Kansas City, Missouri
  • Montgomery, Alabama
  • Pasadena, California
  • Boundary Waters, Minnesota

What was listed as No. 1 on the best places to visit in 2024?

Taking the No. 1 slot on the New York Times list were the states in the path of the total solar eclipse , which takes place April 8.

States in the path of totality include: Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan will also experience the total solar eclipse, according to NASA . 

BREAKING: Uvalde's police chief says he's resigning, days after several officers were cleared of wrongdoing in the delayed response to the 2022 school shooting

Map: 29 million Americans live under new voter ID laws put in place since 2020

Voters fill out ballots.

Voters in particular states will encounter stricter voter ID requirements when they head to the polls as part of a wave of in-person voter ID laws enacted across the country during the last four years.

Eight states have enacted voter ID laws since the 2020 election, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures: Arkansas, Idaho, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, North Carolina, Ohio and Wyoming. The rash of new laws affects 29 million adults. One in 6 voters live in anticipated 2024 battleground states — Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin — with new ID requirements.

Policies vary widely from state to state. In Ohio, acceptable forms of identification are limited to those issued by state or federal governments, such as driver’s licenses or passports, while North Carolina accepts student IDs, as well as military, public assistance and tribal cards. Certain states allow voters to request free ID cards or sign affidavits verifying their identities if they do not have IDs. 

The stricter requirements ahead of Tuesday’s primary elections were years in the making. North Carolina’s law, passed in 2018, was blocked three years later by the state Supreme Court, which ruled the law was “motivated at least in part by an unconstitutional intent to target African American voters .”

The court reversed that decision last year after the election of two GOP justices, allowing the law to go into effect. A federal lawsuit against it is set to go to trial this spring , The Associated Press reported.

Arkansas’ new law no longer allows voters to sign affidavits verifying their identities in place of showing IDs — something many states still offer. Instead, voters are now required to return to the polling places with photo IDs within a set time frame for their provisional ballots to count.

Requesting some form of identification from voters dates to the 1950s, but two Supreme Court decisions in the past two decades have paved the way for states to require IDs. In 2008, the court ruled that an Indiana law requiring voters to present photo IDs did not violate the Constitution.

In 2013, another decision stripped a section of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 that required states with histories of voter discrimination to get federal approval to make changes that affect voting.

Since that requirement was removed, at least 25 voter ID laws have been implemented — some of which have been struck down in court, according to the Brennan Center for Justice, a law and public policy group that tracks election laws.

Voter ID requirements are not inherently unpopular, and a recent Pew Research Center poll found more than 8 in 10 Americans supported requiring government-issued photo identification for voting.

Many of the recent ID laws gained momentum after former President Donald Trump and his allies made repeated, unfounded claims that voter fraud affected the outcome of the 2020 election. Trump’s challenges to the election have consistently lost in court , and state officials across the country have debunked fraud claims .

Studies have found voter fraud rates to be exceptionally low, which Ohio state Rep. Thomas Hall, a Republican who sponsored a law to require state-issued photo IDs, acknowledges. Still, Hall believes the law gives voters “peace of mind” that elections are secure.

“I think voter ID just took that ‘exceedingly rare’ and made it almost impossible here in Ohio,” he said.

Missouri state Rep. John Simmons, a Republican who sponsored legislation requiring a state-issued photo ID, said that election fraud cases are low priority for prosecutors and that requirement is a “commonsense” way to prevent such cases.

“Just because I don’t get broken into my home doesn’t mean I’m not going to lock my doors at night,” Simmons said. “We’ve got to get back to making sure we have confidence in the government.”

Voting rights advocates say strict ID laws have had a direct effect on voter turnout and disproportionately deter low-income people and people of color from voting.

“The policy of voter ID is responding to a problem that is not there, and so we have to be skeptical as to why states would put these policies in place if the justification for them is lacking,” said Eliza Sweren-Becker, senior counsel at the Brennan Center.

Sweren-Becker added that the barriers to voting created by ID laws are “part and parcel of an overall effort to make it harder for Americans to participate” in elections. States such as North Carolina, Georgia, Arkansas and Missouri implemented ID requirements alongside other election changes regarding absentee voting, early voting, signature matching and more.

Nearly 29 million Americans did not have current driver’s licenses and 7.6 million did not have any nonexpired government-issued photo IDs in 2020, according to a University of Maryland report that used a representative sample from an American National Election Studies survey. Survey participants who identified as Black or Hispanic were twice as likely as other groups to lack photo IDs, and 18- to 29-year-olds in these demographics were the least likely to have driver’s licenses or any photo ID out of all other groups. 

“The unfortunate reality is that lawmakers tailor these laws to exclude certain types of voters,” said Molly McGrath, a voting rights attorney with the American Civil Liberties Union. “And it works.”

Identification requirements can bring about disparities in other ways. Texas’ 2021 voting law required mail voters to list their ID numbers or partial Social Security numbers on both mail ballot applications and ballot envelopes themselves, which must match the information on their voter registrations. The Brennan Center found that in the state’s 2022 primary election, Latino, Asian and Black voters were at least 30% more likely to have application or mail ballots rejected because of the new requirement compared to white voters. Some voters did not have matching information, and others left it blank because they did not see it or thought it was optional, NPR reported.

Transgender people can also be caught up by voter ID laws. The Williams Institute, a think tank at UCLA Law, estimated that 260,000 transgender people living in states with voter ID laws did not have a form of ID that accurately reflected their names or gender identities for the 2020 general election. In the 2015 U.S. Transgender Survey, 25% of respondents reported being verbally harassed by poll workers after having shown IDs that did not match their current names or gender identities.

Updating ID gender markers can be arduous for transgender people. Eight states require proof of gender-affirming surgery , and two states do not allow ID changes. All of those states also have voter ID requirements.

A Pew Research poll found that 1 in 5 registered voters did not know they would be asked to show IDs to vote going into the 2016 election.

“Most people think about what they need to vote, meeting deadlines and everything else, just within the months or weeks before the election,” said McGrath, who expects the new requirements will surprise voters during the primaries. “Voters are busy; they have lives.”

More voting laws are coming. Hall, the Ohio state representative who is running for re-election, said he and his colleagues hope to pass more legislation in the name of election integrity in the near future.

Those against ID requirements like Ohio’s say the push for stricter election laws will continue to inhibit voters.

“We are seeing a sort of death-by-a-thousand-cuts approach to voting rights,” Sweren-Becker said.

CLARIFICATION  (March 4, 2024 5:20 p.m. ET): This article has been updated to clarify that the measures in question are specifically about identification for in-person voting, not for all voting in general.

Catherine Allen is an intern on the Data / Graphics team at NBC News.

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