30 Must-See New York City Landmarks and Attractions

1. Times Square – The Crossroads of the World

The crossroads of Broadway and 7th Avenue between 42nd and 47th Streets is the world’s most famous promenade. It’s quite a sight, illuminated by hundreds of multicolored commercials in the heart of Manhattan.

2. Grand Central Station

One of the most visited railway stations in the world and boasting 44 platforms, this transport hub is a destination in itself. How many other places can you walk in the footsteps of movie stars, delve into shops or simply meet up with friends?

3. Rockefeller Center

Rockefeller Center is one of the most famous spots in the city, so it’s only fair that it ranks highly on my list of New York City landmarks. It’s mostly associated with the Lower Plaza ice-skating rink, as well as an excellent Christmas tree in December. The real treat, though, is the view from the 70th floor… visit and you’ll see why. Book your tour here 

4. The Empire State Building

You don’t need me to tell you that this is one of the tallest buildings in the city. If you’ve got a head for heights, the observatory desk on the 86th floor is breathtaking. Book your ticket here 

5. Central Park

Central Park is one of the finest urban parks in the world. A perfect pocket of green, hugged by heaving skyscrapers, it’s an essential if you’re visiting on a city break. Check those tours around Central Park as well 

6. Broadway

You’ll find plenty to do here! Broadway is the longest street in the world and is home to many theatres, cinemas, theatrical and ballet schools, and major designer stores. Book a show ticket here 

7. Dumbo and Brooklyn Heights Promenade

A trendy neighborhood behind Brooklyn Bridge, you’ll find classic loft-style accommodation that treats you to a new taste of urban living. And then there’s the epic view of Manhattan’s skyline from Brooklyn Bridge Park. This just so happens to be my favourite spot in the whole of New York City, especially at night.

8. Chrysler Building

The Chrysler Building is one of the most beautiful skyscrapers in New York City, at 405 Lexington. It rises to 318.9 meters and has an enormous 77 storeys. It’s not simply one of New York City’s most iconic landmarks, either. It’s also an excellent example of Art Deco architecture. The viewing terrace has never attracted interest, so it is not available for tourist visits.

9. 5th Avenue

The most famous street in New York City, this is where to shop if you want to rub shoulders with the elite and indulge in ultimate luxury. With high end department stores and sought-after shopping, it’s no surprise that this is one of the most desirable addresses in the city – both to shop and to live.

10. Wall Street

Wall Street is a world financial center in the business district, where you will find the New York Stock Exchange and the famous bull. It’s a seat for the most important money-making institutions in the United States. Wall Street tour 

11. Williamsburg

Williamsburg is traditionally regarded as the birthplace of hipster subculture throughout the United States. More and more artists are moving here, so there’s a constant swell in the number of galleries, restaurants and cafes. It’s also got a buzzy nightlife scene. South Williamsburg is inhabited by orthodox Jews, reportedly with a larger share of the population than Tel Aviv.

12. World Trade Center Memorial

These monuments commemorate the victims of the 9/11 attacks. It’s formed from a museum and two large swimming pools, where the twin towers once stood. Book a tour here 

13. World Trade Center One

This is the main building of the rebuilt World Trade Center complex in Lower Manhattan. On floors 100, 101 and 102, there is the One World Observatory, which provides incredible panoramic views of New York City and the surrounding area from a height of 381 meters. Your $32 will be well spent when you visit. Skip the line ticket 

14. Staten Island Ferry

This is a free ferry ride from Staten Island. Where better to admire the Statue of Liberty and the beautiful Manhattan skyline from, than a 25-minute cruise?

15. MoMa

You can get into MoMA on Fridays from 16:00-20:00 for free. Inside, you’ll find one of the most prestigious collections of contemporary art

16. Metropolitan Museum of Art

Tie in a visit to this museum with your trip to Central Park, which is nearby. This place houses huge collections of work from the finest masters of painting and sculpture. With over two million works spanning more than 5,000 years of cultural development of various civilizations, there’s a wealth of art to see. Entry ticket here 

17. Natural History Museum

This is the largest natural museum in the world with many anthropogenic collections. The collections of bones and fossils are particularly brilliant, but the star of the show is the Dinosaur Hall

18. Summit One Vanderbilt

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is not just an observation deck; it’s an elevated experience above the rest. Offering unrivaled panoramic views, this observation haven provides an immersive journey through the city’s iconic landmarks, diverse neighborhoods, and the dynamic pulse of New York—all from a vantage point that surpasses any other in the city. Book your ticket here 

19. Brooklyn Bridge

Brooklyn Bridge connects New York’s Brooklyn and Manhattan districts. It’s another excellent spot from which to admire New York City landmarks, scattered across the skyline.

20. Coney Island

The beach and peninsula share the name Coney Island in the south of Brooklyn, just off the Atlantic coast. Come here to be entertained and the amusement park, promenade and pubs will happily oblige.

21. Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

The statue, a symbol of free America, was given to the United States by France on the the 100th anniversary of the declaration of independence.You’re allowed to climb up to the crown on the head of the statue. Ellis Island is famous for being the first place new immigrants arriving in New York stepped upon, between 1892 and 1954. Book a tour here 

22. Madison Square Garden

Madison Square Garden has been the largest concert hall in the world since the late 1960s. But the line up is not limited to music. There’s also basketball, hockey, boxing and much more available at this iconic venue. Book a tour here 

23. Flatiron Building

This Manhattan building will fascinate you! The building gains its name from the triangular shape of the plot on which it was located.

24. China Town

The most colorful part of the city and a hub for Asian culture. You’ll get an entirely new sense of New York wandering the narrow streets and shopping here

25. High Line Park

The park is built on the site of the old High Line Park railway line, 30 meters above street level!

26. The New York Public Library

With over 50 million volumes to choose from, including publications for the blind, we’re sure you will find what you’re looking for here. Today, most of the collection of books is also available online for users from around the world to enjoy.

27. New York Aquarium

The aquarium in Brooklyn is home to more than 300 species of marine creatures. It also bears an excellent reputation for its continual research in marine flora and fauna.

28. Roosevelt Island

This is an island located between Manhattan and Queens, which can be reached by cable car. The queue itself is a great attraction, because it hangs high along the Queensboro Bridge. There aren’t many New York City landmarks that can lay claim to that!

29. Bronx Zoo

The Bronx Zoo is the largest zoo in North America and one of the largest in the world. It covers an area of 107 hectares and is inhabited by about 6,000 animals, representing 650 different species. It’s a great one for wildlife lovers or families.

30. Brooklyn Botanical Garden

The botanical garden in Brooklyn offers free admission on Tuesdays. The area is beautiful, expansive and home to myriad plants. It’s the perfect place to while away a few hours with a book, people watch from a comfy bench or simply to take in the natural beauty of the planting.

For more inspiration planning your time in New York, head over to our guide on USA city breaks. Plus, find out why there’s nowhere I’d rather be on New Year’s Eve than in NYC.

It’s not only about the Big Apple, though! Check out these seven states that are must visits when you’re in America. You’ll also love this guide for where to go and what to do at the USA’s most awe-inspiring national parks.