New York can be an overwhelming destination for travelers who are seeing the city for the first time. There are an endless amount of sights to see, attractions to experience, and food to try, so it’s important to go in with somewhat of a plan. If you are looking for suggestions of a few must-see attractions then keep reading. Make sure to use luggage storage in NYC if you arrive before your check in time because there is no time to waste in the city that never sleeps!
The Empire State Building
This one is a given. The Empire State Building is an iconic New York landmark that you will want to see when you are in town. If you just want to lay your eyes on one of the most recognizable buildings in the United States, then you won’t have to try hard. The Empire State Building can be seen from so many locations in the central NY area that it’s honestly hard to miss. However, if you really want to take advantage of everything this building has to offer, take a trip to the top. The 360 views from the top of this skyscraper can’t be beat. Try timing your visit around sunset for an unforgettable view of the city. And don’t forget to take some pictures for Insta as the backdrop is truly stellar.
Central Park
Another obvious choice but for a good reason, Central Park should be a must-see attraction on everyone’s list. With around 25 million people visiting each year, Central Park holds its place as a quintessential stop for anyone visiting New York. There is plenty to see in the park as it has almost 50 famous fountains, sculptures, and monuments as well as 36 bridges and arches. Visit this park in the spring or summertime for the best views.
Times Square
This is going to be the last obvious choice on the list but again, you can’t visit New York without stopping by this spot. It’s Times Square of course! When we conjure up a picture of New York in our heads, the first image to appear is usually Times Square. This area features bustling crowds, sky high billboards and screens and tons of sights to see. Check out the iconic Radio City or head down to Broadway and see a show. Don’t forget to check out the street art and bars and restaurants that are along the surrounding streets as well.
The High Line
Stepping outside of the standard NY attractions is The High Line. The High Line used to be a cargo railway but is now a 1.45-mile-long outdoor garden along the west side of Manhattan. You can walk along an elevated linear path that was created on an abandoned spur and inspired by the Promenade Plantée in Paris. After it was established in 2009 people from all over the world have enjoyed walking through the park’s variety of naturalized plants while enjoying the views of the city and the Hudson River. Additionally, if you don’t have plans to travel to Ellis Island to see the Statue of Liberty up close, you will be able to get some pretty good views of it near The High Line.
The Guggenheim
There is a great variety of museums in New York. With so many to choose from, you may find yourself overwhelmed by choice. If you only have time to visit one museum during your stay in New York, we highly recommend The Guggenheim. Located in a building designed by the iconic Frank Lloyd Wright, the architecture itself is reason enough to visit this museum. But once you get inside you will be delighted to find an impressive and ever-expanding collection of impressionist, post-impressionist, early modern and contemporary art. They also rotate special exhibitions throughout the year so make sure to check out what will be displayed during your visit.
The Williamsburg Bridge
You may be wondering how the Williamsburg Bridge made it onto our list before the famous Brooklyn Bridge did. Iconic as it is, the Brooklyn Bridge attracts a ton of foot traffic making it difficult to casually stroll along and enjoy the views. The Williamsburg Bridge offers the same views as the Brooklyn Bridge but without all those pesky tourists. You will be able to see stunning views of the Manhattan and Brooklyn skylines as you walk along the bridge and at either end you will be greeted by plenty of restaurants, bars and parks to explore.
The Brooklyn Flea
Once you’ve made it over the bridge you will want to check out one of the best flea markets that New York City has to offer: The Brooklyn Flea. Each weekend the market comes to life with hundreds of top vendors selling goods like vintage clothing, furniture, antiques and more. Make sure to check out this spot if your trip to NY falls over the weekend.
New York Awaits!
Make sure to plan some time to check out these top-notch attractions in New York City. There are hundreds of things to see and do in New York so if you are feeling overwhelmed, definitely start with this list. With some minor planning you are sure to have an unforgettable trip to New York!
