New York City is bursting with iconic sights, so if you’re visiting for the first time, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. During my recent trip to the Big Apple, I made it my mission to experience the quintessential NYC landmarks, explore the art and culture, and take in the vibrant neighborhoods. In this guide, I’ll share my favorite must-see attractions and my personal experiences at each, along with tips on making the most of your time there.
1. Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
One of the most famous symbols of freedom, the Statue of Liberty was my first stop. The ferry ride to Liberty Island offered incredible views of the city skyline and the statue itself, which looked even more impressive up close. The pedestal and crown tickets sell out fast, so I recommend booking in advance if you want to climb up for the views. The museum at the base tells the story of the statue’s construction and its significance, which I found fascinating.
Afterward, I continued to Ellis Island, which was an emotional experience. Standing in the Great Hall, where countless immigrants first entered the country, gave me a profound sense of history. The Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration provided an interactive exploration of the immigrant experience, and I was surprised to find a computer database where I could look up records of immigrants—perfect for those interested in genealogy.
Travel Tip: Purchase the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island ferry ticket combo to save time and avoid long lines at Battery Park.
2. Central Park
Central Park is a breath of fresh air in the middle of Manhattan’s hustle and bustle. I spent a whole afternoon wandering its meandering paths, taking in the scenic beauty of the lakes, bridges, and wooded areas. Renting a bike made it easier to explore the park’s vast expanse. I stopped by the Bethesda Terrace and Fountain, a classic NYC spot that’s been featured in countless movies.
For something quieter, I wandered into the Shakespeare Garden and visited Strawberry Fields, a peaceful memorial dedicated to John Lennon. If you’re an art lover, don’t miss the statues throughout the park, like Alice in Wonderland and Balto. Central Park Zoo is also a delightful stop, especially if you’re traveling with kids.
Travel Tip: If you want a unique perspective of the park, take a guided horse carriage ride at sunset—it’s both romantic and picturesque!
3. Empire State Building
The Empire State Building offers one of the best views of New York City. I went at dusk to see the city lights gradually come to life, and the 360-degree views from the 86th-floor observation deck were unforgettable. For an even higher perspective, you can go up to the 102nd floor, though I found the main deck offered plenty of breathtaking views.
The Art Deco architecture and the history displayed in the exhibits on the way up were just as interesting as the view. The Empire State Building has been a staple of the NYC skyline for nearly a century, and you can feel its storied past in every detail.
Travel Tip: Buy your tickets online to skip the line, and consider going early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the crowds.
4. The Metropolitan Museum of Art
With an afternoon free, I headed to the Met, one of the world’s largest and most renowned art museums. The museum’s vast collection spans 5,000 years, and I found myself lost in everything from ancient Egyptian artifacts to European paintings by masters like Van Gogh and Monet. I also loved the Costume Institute, where they display intricate fashion pieces from different eras.
Since it’s impossible to see everything in one visit, I focused on a few sections that interested me the most, like the arms and armor collection and the Asian art galleries. There’s even a rooftop garden that offers fantastic views of Central Park and the Manhattan skyline.
Travel Tip: Plan your visit by selecting a few must-see exhibits beforehand. The Met also has a “pay what you wish” admission policy for NY state residents and students, so bring your ID if you qualify.
5. Times Square
Love it or hate it, Times Square is a must-see. The bright lights, massive billboards, and sheer energy of the place make it unlike anywhere else. I went at night when the neon signs and giant LED screens were at their most dazzling. While it’s crowded, the atmosphere is contagious, and it’s easy to spend an hour just soaking in the scene.
I stopped by the TKTS booth in the center of Times Square, where you can get discounted Broadway tickets. Seeing a Broadway show is one of the ultimate NYC experiences, and this is a great way to score tickets without breaking the bank.
Travel Tip: Keep an eye on your belongings in the crowd, and if you want a quieter experience, visit early in the morning or late at night.
6. Brooklyn Bridge
The walk across the Brooklyn Bridge was a highlight of my trip. Starting from Manhattan, I strolled across this iconic structure, marveling at the views of the Manhattan skyline and the East River. The bridge itself is an architectural marvel, and the wooden walkway and Gothic arches make it perfect for photos.
When I reached the Brooklyn side, I spent some time in Brooklyn Bridge Park, which has a stunning waterfront view of Manhattan. Nearby, DUMBO is a great neighborhood to explore with its trendy cafes, art galleries, and the famous spot for that Instagram-worthy shot of the bridge framed by the buildings on Washington Street.
Travel Tip: Start your walk early in the morning for fewer crowds and softer lighting for photos. The bridge can get busy, especially on weekends.
7. 9/11 Memorial & Museum
Visiting the 9/11 Memorial was a sobering experience. The two reflecting pools are built in the footprints of the Twin Towers, and the engraved names of the victims are a powerful reminder of the lives lost. Inside the museum, I explored exhibits that detailed the events of 9/11, the aftermath, and the resilience of New Yorkers. It was deeply moving, and I highly recommend visiting as a tribute to those affected.
Travel Tip: The 9/11 Memorial is free to visit, but the museum requires a ticket. For a more reflective experience, visit on a weekday when it’s less crowded.
8. Grand Central Terminal
Grand Central Terminal is more than just a train station; it’s a Beaux-Arts masterpiece and a New York icon. The main concourse, with its soaring ceiling painted with constellations, took my breath away. I stopped by the Whispering Gallery, where you can stand at opposite corners and hear whispers across the room—a fun, quirky feature!
While there, I also explored the Grand Central Market, which has a fantastic selection of gourmet foods. For a classic New York meal, I grabbed a bite at the Oyster Bar, a historic restaurant tucked beneath the station.
Travel Tip: If you’re interested in architecture and history, take a guided tour of Grand Central to learn about its design and hidden secrets.
New York City is a place like no other, with countless things to see and do. This list barely scratches the surface, but these attractions offer a perfect introduction to the city’s energy, history, and culture. From the powerful sights of the 9/11 Memorial to the breathtaking views from the Empire State Building, each stop on this journey made me fall more in love with NYC.