New York City, a place to find inspiration, for millions of people. The energy and vibes this place offer is something not to be found anywhere else on earth. The amazing skyscrapers, monuments, flourishing arts, fashion, nightlife, food, everything here captures your heart and mind. When planning your visit to NYC, you must know that there is A LOT to do here. This massive urban jungle will make you run out of time but never out of places to explore.
When it comes to visiting NYC, you need to have some ideas about places you’re going to see. For that reason, we have prepared a list of some amazing and most desired attractions that you must see when in NYC!
#01 Times Square
It wouldn’t be wrong to say that Times Square in NYC is like a five-block metaphor. For some, it is exciting and colorful, and for others, it is overpriced and congested.
Times Square is the biggest tourist attraction and can’t be missed on its annual New Year’s Eve ball drop. You will find the main junction of the time square filled with some famous retailers and the TKTS discount booth that offers up to 50% of theatre tickets.
Your visit to the time square is going to be an unforgettable one. Just know that this area is super crowded and if you plan to visit especially on a new year’s Eve, come early morning so you don’t get confused and lost in the heavy crowd.
#02 Central Park
Located right in the heart of Manhattan, central park is totally free to visit. To enjoy the mesmerizing views this park offers, you can visit from 6 am to 1 am. Don’t get confused with its name, this is not just a park but it is a mixture of parks, museums, and a concert hall. This attraction is situated next to the American Museum of Natural History which is another must-visit attraction so now you can visit more than one attraction in one go.
You can also visit this place if you want to go to the zoo or just want some exercise or let’s say just to dine out with your special ones.
#03 American Museum of Natural History
American Museum of Natural History is the most loved place by visitors. From exploring the interactive exhibits on the land to the sea or outer space or the cafeteria and gift shop, everything is worth your notice. This place is crowded to no surprise but if you are visiting during weekdays in late winter or spring, you might find it with fewer people. For 1st time visitors, its opening timings are from 10 am to 5:45 pm. You can also buy tickets in advance from their website.
#04 Empire State Building
Empire State Building, the second tallest building in New York City is another must-visit attraction that you should be missing out on! Though you have to pay hefty admission fees, you will still find the place crowded which speaks for itself.
Just take a trip to the top of the Empire State Building, when the days are clear and you happen to be there, you’ll be able to see the city’s major highlights from 1050 feet beneath you. Doesn’t that sound amazing? For details about tickets and their prices, you can visit the Empire State Building’s official website as well.
#05 Statue of Liberty
Coming to the most talked-about attraction, Statue of Liberty. Located on Liberty Island, this statue draws visitors from all around the globe and all year-round. All you need to know while planning to visit this place is, how you are going to get there! You can either get in line super early so that you can get on one of the very first boats or simply purchase a ticket and catch the ferry at the Liberty State Park in Jersey City.
If you don’t have enough time, you can also view the monument from the High Line or Battery Park.
#06 New York Public Library
Also known as Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, New York Public Library attracts plenty of history junkies, book lovers and architecture devotees from all around the world. If you like reading, you will find a huge collection of English and American literature and a collection of some rare books you won’t usually find anywhere else. This library also hosts several lecture programs and children’s sections. It’s a beautiful architecture that will leave you in awe and you will enjoy wandering through it if you have an hour or two to kill.
#07 The High Line
Stretched over three of the city’s most lively neighborhoods like Meatpacking District, West Chelsea, and Hell’s Kitchen, the High Line offers some breathtaking views of Manhattan’s cityscape and Hudson River. Here, you will easily find areas where you can enjoy your picnics and sunbathes.
Escaping to the High Line is the best idea when you need a break from New York City’s hustle and bustle. Visits to this attraction are free and it’s typically open from 7 am to 7 pm. The hours extend to 10 or even 11 pm at night in spring summer and fall season.
#08 Brooklyn Bridge
The Brooklyn Bridge, one of the most famous landmarks the city has, is a mixture of gothic-shaped arches and suspension cables. Walking here is one of the easiest and fun experiences on its own. For the ones who love capturing amazing views, start off on the Brooklyn side and then, walk towards Manhattan. After all, starting off with some good scenery and a less crowded place is always a good idea.
If you are not into walking, you can also try biking on the bridge but usually, pedestrian traffic is quite heavy so it can be challenging. Just be aware of the fact that the access to the bridge begins back from the water’s edge.
#09 Broadway Show
Home to more than 40 Broadway theaters, New York City offers one the best collections of live theater in the whole world. Be it a new musical, long-running classic or the latest smash-hit, the magic of Broadway will leave you amazed.
The prices may be high, but you can visit the TKTS booth in Time Square for some great discounts! Don’t forget to check the show list before you visit so you can plan your visit to enjoy the shows you are really into.
#10 9/11 Memorial
Last but not the least, 9/11 Memorial. This memorial reflects on healing and growth. Entitled as “Reflecting Absence”, the memorial pools lie in the footprint of the towers that are surrounding the museum. Around the memorial, you will see amazing new buildings that were created to rebuild the loss. No doubt it’s an emotional place to encounter, but this beautiful tribute is worth the visit.
It also features displays including photos, videos, and artifacts that present the story of 9/11, the aftermath, and the impacts it left behind.
Final Thoughts
Though New York is a whole world in itself, offering a huge range to explore, we have listed some of the best attractions you must see in NYC, as that’s the only important highlight of your trip after you choose amongst best hostels in NYC. We hope now you have a better idea and understanding of some destinations you are definitely not going to miss when you visit New York City!
About the author:
Eman Munir: Working as a senior staff writer and SEO specialist at Travel Brust and jotting down all informative, fun stories and sharing experiences so everyone can see the world through a hodophile’s lens.
