There are dozens of must-see attractions in New York City. Many of their names are so iconic that their fame travels the world over.
Let’s take a closer look at some of New York City’s most well-known landmarks. We’ll start our journey in southern Manhattan and then head north from there.
1. The Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty is perhaps the most iconic monument in the entire city. Originally a gift from France to the United States, Miss Liberty now stands as a sign of freedom for the entire country.
To get there you’ll need to go to Battery Park, buy the $21 crown ticket and then take the ferry. Ferries come and go every 30 minutes so you can easily return to Manhattan or continue your journey onto Ellis Island.
We recommend beating the crowds and arriving before 11AM – and make sure to pick a nice day for the best pictures!
2. The 9/11 Memorial and World Trade Center
The Freedom Tower, completed in July 2014, stands near the base of the original Twin Towers. You can now visit the memorials of the North and the South Towers, as well as the excellent 9/11 Memorial museum that was constructed nearby.
Keep in mind that the entire campus is a place of remembrance and quiet reflection. Travelers are allowed to take pictures in the museum, but it’s recommended that visitors remain quiet. Tickets start from $24 and various tours are available. Free tickets are offered after 5PM on Tuesdays.
3. The Brooklyn Bridge
The Brooklyn Bridge is yet another iconic monument in New York City. There are many bridges connecting Manhattan to both New Jersey and other boroughs, but the Brooklyn Bridge stands apart.
A gorgeous footpath bisects the highway and offers beautiful vistas of the East River, nearby islands and New York City at large. The bridge was opened on May 24, 1883 and remains a popular thoroughfare today.
4. The Flatiron Building
The Flatiron – originally the Fuller Building – may not be as recognizable as the Empire State Building or Rockefeller Center, but its unique triangular architecture is noteworthy and warrants a quick visit. Located between Midtown and Downtown in Manhattan, this 22-story building sits surrounded by grandeur and countless eateries – most notably the massive food and drink complex, Eataly. Stop and take a peek as you continue to head uptown.
5. The Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is a skyscraper that needs no introduction. It held the title of ‘tallest building in the world’ for nearly 40 years and practically begs to be climbed – but to do so will cost you.
Shelling out $32 will get you a ticket to the 86th floor and the $52 ticket let’s you stop at both the 86th and 102nd floors. Once you get there, though, you’ll be able to see out more than 25 miles (on a clear day), well beyond the surrounding boroughs. The Empire State Building is open everyday from 8am to 2am.
6. Times Square
To many non-New Yorkers, the bustle of Times Square is New York. The incessant activity, the invasion of chain restaurants, the host of the ball drop on New Year’s Eve . . . it’s that image that gets broadcast around the globe. New York City is so much more than that, though, so don’t spend all your time here.
With that said, Times Square is unlike anywhere else in the world and worth a visit for that reason alone. Try and keep up with the movement as you walk through the infamous five blocks from 42nd to 47th Street.
7. Grand Central Station
Grand Central Station is a huge hub connected to both the subway system and the commuter rail. It’s outfitted with 44 platforms – more than any other station in the world – that all sit underground. Even if you don’t travel in and out of Grand Central, though, it’s worth stopping by.
Don’t miss the cavernous Main Concourse, with its vaulted astronomical ceiling and the iconic four-faced clock that sits atop the information booth. Audio tours are also available for those curious to learn more.
8. Central Park
Visiting Central Park can take the entire day. The 843-acre park is an urban oasis from New York City’s unparalleled business, and its meticulously curated layout is known around the globe; the park attracts an astounding 35 million visitors per year.
If it’s nice outside, don’t miss an opportunity to explore its beauty. And keep in mind, no matter how good you are with maps, you’re going to get lost.
9. The Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Metropolitan Museum of Art – affectionately called “the Met” – is a good stop on your journey while you’re near Central Park. This comprehensive museum covers everything from the history of Egypt to the Middle Ages to the Renaissance.
The Met occupies 2,000,000 sq feet (190,000 sq m), so grab a map, pick your favorite era and explore that while you still have the energy. Keep in mind that the museum’s cafeteria is expensive and can get crowded. There are plenty of alternatives outside on Lexington Avenue if you opt to save your money for other wiles.
10. Madison Square Garden
Madison Square Garden is perhaps the most famous indoor arena in the world. MSG functions in multiple capacities, serving as the host of the city’s most lavish music events and home to the Knicks, Rangers and the Liberty. Completed in 1968, this iteration is actually the fourth to bear the Madison Square Garden name. And even though the current model isn’t even in Madison Square, it still carries all the legacy that’s accumulated over more than a century of entertainment.
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