What to see in New York? The city’s biggest attractions

Does New York City really live up to all imagined big-city vibes? Definitely yes! Our first trip to the Big Apple was like a movie dream come true – neon lights, iconic sights and the endless energy of a city that actually lives 24/7! In this post, we want to share with you our favorite places and practical tips to help you experience this magical place to the fullest.

For us, New York was mostly a place we knew from the movies – bustling streets, distinctive yellow cabs and breathtaking views. When we finally stood in Times Square, we felt like we were in the center of the world! This city has something magical about it that attracts people from every corner of the globe. Although it is not always as beautiful as in the movie, walking in the morning you will stumble over bags of trash, and you will indeed meet a lot of homeless people on the streets, it is a city that is one of a kind.

On the one hand, it offers amazing opportunities – it inspires, impresses with its energy and diversity, and the number of interesting places and attractions in New York is probably endless. On the other hand, it can overwhelm with crowds and noise, which is an integral part of it. There is something for everyone in New York, from leisurely strolls through Central Park to the bustling streets of Broadway.

In this article, we want to take you on a journey through the most interesting corners of New York and share tips on what to see in New York, tips that will make your visit even more memorable. We have described many of these places in detail in dedicated posts, so this time it will be short, concise and to the point ;)

New York’s top attractions – what to see in New York?

The following is a list of what to see in New York, that is, a list of the top attractions that we think are worth visiting during your stay in New York. The order is completely random – each of these places has its own unique charm and you are sure to find something among them that will delight you!

1. Times Square – the heart of the city

Many people begin their tour with a site that is a symbol of New York. Times Square, known for its neon advertisements and crowds of people, is the city’s entertainment center. Regardless of the time of day, you will find tourists, street artists and countless stores and restaurants. Of course, in such places you have to be especially wary of pickpockets and swindlers.

2. Central Park – the green lungs of New York City

A walk through Central Park is a must-do when visiting New York. The world’s most famous park offers many activities: romantic carriage rides, ice skating in winter or picnicking in summer. A visit to Central Park is not just a stroll through the green spaces, but you’ll also find famous landmarks worth stopping at like Bethesda Terrace and Strawberry Fields. It’s worth setting aside a few hours to explore Central Park.

3. The Empire State Building – a remarkable icon of New York City

There is nothing more memorable than the view of New York City from a height. The Empire State Building offers two observation decks – at 86. i 102. floors. We especially recommend a visit at sunset, when the city sparkles with a thousand lights, although it is the most besieged place then. Being before sunset allows you to see New York from above both during the day and at night.

4. the Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center – an alternative to the Empire State Building

If you want to see the Empire State Building against the city skyline, head to the Top of the Rock observation deck at Rockefeller Center. The view of Central Park and all of Manhattan is unforgettable, and it is, in our opinion, one of the best observation decks to see New York in all its glory.

Rockefeller Center itself also deserves attention, if only because this is where the famous Christmas tree stands around Christmas time.

5. Brooklyn Bridge – a walk with a view

Crossing the Brooklyn Bridge is a must on any visit. The walk from Manhattan to Brooklyn offers amazing views of the city skyline, and you’ll even see the Statue of Liberty from here. Brooklyn awaits you at the end of the bridge with its waterfront park, atmospheric cafes, art galleries and street art.

6. The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

A symbol of freedom and one of the most visited sites in New York is the Statue of Liberty. Many people take a cruise to Liberty Island, where they can admire the statue up close and even climb it, and to Ellis Island, where the Immigration Museum is located.

7. One World Trade Center and World Trade Center Memorial

It is worth visiting the tallest building in New York – One World Trade Center – and the nearby World Trade Center Memorial which, along with the museum, is located at Ground Zero. It is a memorial to the victims of the 9/11 attacks and a symbol of the city’s rebirth. You can admire New York City from One World Trade Center, as there is an observation deck.

8. Broadway – the magic of theater

If you are a fan of theater and musicals, you can’t miss the opportunity to see a Broadway show. “The Lion King,” “Wicked” or “Hamilton” are just a few of the offerings that will delight you with their grandeur and artistry.

9. High Line Park – park over the streets

High Line Park is a unique park created on former railroad tracks that stretches through the Chelsea neighborhood. Walking along the High Line, you can enjoy modern architecture and numerous art installations or just urban life on the streets below.

10. Metropolitan Museum of Art

The MET is one of the largest and most important museums not only in New York, but around the world. Here you will find an impressive collection of artworks, from ancient civilizations to modern masterpieces. It is a must-see on the map for any art lover and beyond.

11. Wall Street and the Financial District

Wall Street is a symbol of global finance and the home of the New York Stock Exchange. Walking down this historic street, you can feel the atmosphere of big business, and in the financial district look for the famous bull statue Charging Bull, which has become an icon of strength and determination, and the girl The Fearless Girl. Wall Street is actually one street, but it is often referred to as such when referring to the financial district.

12. American Museum of Natural History

One of the world’s most famous museums that will delight children and adults alike. The American Museum of Natural History is where you can see impressive collections, including dinosaur skeletons, dioramas depicting various ecosystems of the world, and fascinating temporary exhibitions. Don’t forget to visit the Hayden Planetarium, which offers unforgettable shows about the cosmos.

By the way, we recommend our post New York for kids – attractions in New York for the whole family! »

13. Ferry to Staten Island

If you want to see the Statue of Liberty for free, we recommend a ferry ride to Staten Island. This is a great way to admire the Manhattan skyline and the statue itself (the ferry doesn’t stop at Liberty Island, but passes quite close).

14. The Edge and Hudson Yards viewpoint

The Edge is one of the newest and most spectacular viewpoints in New York City. It is located in Hudson Yards and offers stunning views of the city from a glass terrace on the 100th floor of the skyscraper. Also worth a visit is the nearby The Vessel, an unusual architectural installation that has become one of the symbols of Hudson Yards.

15 Summit One Vanderbilt

Summit One Vanderbilt is another state-of-the-art viewpoint that offers a unique experience with its glass terraces and mirrored walls and floors. The views of Midtown Manhattan, the Empire State Building and the East River are very impressive.

16. Brooklyn and DUMBO

The Brooklyn district is a place that delights with its atmosphere and diversity. We especially recommend DUMBO, a part of the district overlooking the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan Bridge. It’s a great place to walk and take photos with the iconic view of the bridge with the Empire State Building in the distance. From Brooklyn Bridge Park you can see Lower Manhattan very well, and you can also spot the Statue of Liberty from here.

17. The Manhattan Bridge

Among the city’s attractions, along with the Brooklyn Bridge, is the slightly lesser-known but equally interesting Manhattan Bridge. Walking around it is a great alternative if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy the city skyline from a slightly different perspective.

18. Grand Central Terminal – an architectural gem of New York City

Grand Central Terminal is not only the largest railroad station in the world, but also a true architectural gem. The main hall impresses with an impressive vaulted ceiling with a painting depicting star constellations. Don’t forget to stop by the famous clock in the middle of the hall and visit the hidden “whispering arch” that provides a unique acoustic effect. Grand Central Terminal is one of New York’s top attractions.

How to plan a tour of New York? Practical tips

Sightseeing in New York can be a challenge, as you end up having to find your way around these many streets and intersections and the highly developed subway network. A well-planned day will help you make the most of your time, so we have prepared some helpful tips:

• Plan ahead: Book tickets to the city’s popular attractions online to avoid queues and save time. For some attractions, seats are purchased several days in advance, and sometimes ticket prices are more favorable when purchased in advance.
• Use the subway: It’s the fastest and cheapest way to get around the city. In New York, the map of subway lines is a veritable tangle, but one can easily get caught up in it all. To pay for rides you can buy a MetroCard and reload it, but it’s more convenient to just pay with a contactless card or phone at the entrance. Exploring the city using the subway will be easier, as many of the city’s attractions are close to the station. You can read more about public transportation on the MTA‘s official website.
• Buy CityPASS: With passes, you’ll save on entrance fees to major attractions. It pays off especially if you want to see more paid attractions. Link: CityPass.

• Free Internet: We bought a local eSIM card every time, but you might as well take advantage of the free Wi-Fi networks you’ll find at every turn in New York.
• Walk as much as possible: even in New York, exploring on foot is possible :) Many attractions are located close to each other, and walking will allow you to feel the atmosphere of the city.
• Avoid rush hours: Mornings and afternoons on the subway can be crowded, so try to plan rides outside of these hours.
• Don’t be afraid of local food: New York pretzels or pizza by the slice are part of the local experience. Even if they are not among the healthiest foods it is worth trying them here, and in New York you will find them on almost every corner.
• Remember to tip: Finally, one of the most important aspects that does not apply only to New York, but to the entire United States. Tipping is almost mandatory here, so not only do the prices not include taxes, but you also have to throw in a 15-20% tip.

Much more practical advice and information can be found in our dedicated post: New York practically – what you need to know before you travel: visas, hotels, tickets… »

How many days should I allocate to explore New York?

A stay of 5 to 7 days is optimal. For the first time ;)

With so many days, you will have time to see the biggest attractions such as Times Square, Central Park and the Empire State Building, as well as discover lesser-known corners of the city, such as DUMBO, the picturesque streets of Greenwich Village, the atmospheric Chelsea Market, take a cruise to Staten Island or walk the Brooklyn Bridge. This amount of time also allows you to quietly enjoy local cuisine, explore different neighborhoods and shop on the famous Fifth Avenue.

What to see in New York – a ready-made itinerary for 7 days

If you’re looking for a ready-made plan to explore New York, we have something special! We have prepared a detailed map, on which we’ve marked more than 80 places of interest! Exploring the city with such a map on your phone will certainly be easier.

Attractions in New York – our opinion

New York is a city that can be explored endlessly. Each visit is a new experience and unforgettable moments. We spent a lot of time here, but still left unsatisfied, and we know that we will return here again! Although we have seen many of the city’s top tourist attractions, every now and then we get content with more interesting places , which make it imperative that we see New York again.

New York offers a multitude of tourist attractions and entertainment for everyone. Fantastic world-class museums await (Metropolitan Museum of Art, Museum of Natural History, Museum of Modern Art), green oases like Central Park and High Line Park, and amazing vantage points from which to view New York City and catch a glimpse of the tentacled, hurrying people below.

It’s crowded, noisy, but that’s what big agglomerations are like :) Here you just have to expect it