Introduction To Must See Places In New York

New York is a city like no other. It is the most populous city in the United States and it is considered to be the world’s most influential financial, cultural and media hub. From its iconic skyline to its world-renowned landmarks, New York is a city full of life and energy that entices millions of tourists to visit each year.

New York City has a rich and varied history of immigration, culture and art that spans centuries. The city was founded by Dutch colonists in 1624 and has since become a melting pot of cultures. New York has a long-standing reputation as a global financial center and is also home to some of the world’s most famous museums, theaters, galleries, and landmarks.

For first-time visitors, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. From the hustle and bustle of Times Square to the breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty, there’s a seemingly endless array of attractions and things to do in New York City. Here’s our guide to some of the must-see places in New York.

The Empire State Building

The Empire State Building

The Empire State Building is one of New York’s most iconic landmarks and dominates the skyline of Midtown Manhattan. Built in 1931, the 102-story Art Deco skyscraper has become synonymous with the city and offers awe-inspiring views from its observatory deck on the 86th floor.

The observatory deck offers breathtaking 360-degree views of New York City, its skyline, and its many attractions. On a clear day visitors can see up to 80 miles away from the observation deck. The Empire State Building is open from 8am until 2am every day, and it is best to visit either early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the crowds and make the most of your experience.

Visitors can also opt for a guided tour or a VIP ticket to get access to exclusive areas such as the Dare to Dream Exhibit, which tells the story of the construction of the building, or the Top Deck Experience, which allows visitors to access an open-air terrace on the 100th floor.

Central Park

Central Park

Central Park is an urban oasis in the heart of Manhattan. It is one of the most visited parks in the world and features over 843 acres of lush gardens, meadows, lakes, trails, and playgrounds. It’s a great place to take a break from the bustling city and enjoy some peace and quiet in nature.

Central Park is a great place for all types of activities, from picnics and bird watching to running, biking, boating and more. Visitors can explore the park’s many attractions such as Belvedere Castle, Strawberry Fields (dedicated to John Lennon) or rent bicycles or rowboats from Central Park Boathouse.

The park is also home to many attractions such as the Central Park Zoo or Wollman Rink, an ice rink which opens every winter for ice skating under the stars. Every summer there are free outdoor concerts and movie screenings that take place in Central Park.

Statue of Liberty

Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty stands tall on Liberty Island in New York Harbor as a symbol of freedom and opportunity for all people who come to America. This iconic copper monument was given to the United States by France in 1886 as a gift to commemorate the friendship between the two countries.

The Statue of Liberty is open for public visits year-round and visitors can take ferries from Battery Park in lower Manhattan or from Liberty State Park in New Jersey to access Liberty Island. Visitors can explore the museum at Liberty Island or climb 354 steps up to the crown for stunning views over Manhattan.

Visitors can also opt for a guided tour of Liberty Island and Ellis Island with a knowledgeable guide who will provide insight into the history and significance of these two iconic sites. The tour includes access to both islands as well as access to the Immigration Museum on Ellis Island.

Rockefeller Center

Rockefeller Center

Rockefeller Center is an iconic complex located in midtown Manhattan between 48th and 51st street. It consists of 19 commercial buildings that house shops, restaurants, office spaces, TV studios and galleries as well as one of New York’s most iconic attractions – The Top of the Rock observation deck.

The observation deck offers breathtaking 360-degree views from 270 meters above street level. On a clear day visitors can see up to five states from the top of Rockefeller Center. The observation deck is open year-round from 8am until midnight every day.

Rockefeller Center also offers other attractions such as The Rainbow Room – an iconic restaurant located on the 65th floor – or the Rink at Rockefeller Center – an outdoor ice rink that opens every winter for ice skating under the stars.

Times Square

Times Square

Times Square is one of New York City’s most iconic landmarks and one of its busiest tourist attractions. It is located in Midtown Manhattan at the intersection of Broadway and Seventh Avenue and is home to huge video screens, theatres, restaurants and businesses.

The area around Times Square is known for its bright lights and billboards, making it one of the most photographed locations in New York City. Visitors can explore Times Square’s many attractions such as Madame Tussauds wax museum, the AMC movie theatre or observe some street performers around Times Square.

Times Square is also home to many performances throughout the year such as Broadway shows or annual events such as New Year’s Eve celebrations where visitors can witness one of the most iconic events of the year – The Ball Drop at midnight!

High Line Park

High Line Park

High Line Park is an elevated park located on Manhattan’s west side that runs from Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking District to West 34th Street at 34th Street Hudson Yards. It was built on an abandoned elevated rail line that dates back to 1934 and today is one of New York City’s most popular parks with over 8 million visitors annually.
High Line Park offers stunning views over Manhattan’s west side with its lush gardens, meadows, art installations, outdoor seating areas and more. Visitors can explore art galleries, cafes and shops along the way or enjoy some peaceful moments away from the bustling city below.
High Line Park offers guided tours throughout the year where visitors can learn about its history from knowledgeable guides as well as events such as dance classes, outdoor movie screenings and more!

Must See Tours In New York

Must See Tours In New York

For those wanting to explore New York City’s must see places in depth there are plenty of tours available that offer insights into all these attractions as well as plenty more! Here are two popular tours that are worth checking out when visiting New York City:

New York City High Line Guided Tour

This tour takes visitors on an exploration through High Line Park – an elevated park located on Manhattan’s west side – where visitors can learn about its history from knowledgeable guides as well as enjoy stunning views over Manhattan’s west side with its lush gardens, meadows, art installations, outdoor seating areas and more! The tour includes access to exclusive areas with guided commentary about High Line Park’s history as well as stops at various points along the way with plenty of photo opportunities. This tour is suitable for all ages and lasts two hours making it a great way to discover High Line Park in a short amount of time! Book a New York City High Line Guided Tour here.

NYC Skyline Cruise

This tour takes visitors on an exploration through New York’s incredible skyline while cruising along its harbor! Visitors will get stunning views of iconic landmarks such as The Statue Of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Ellis Island and much more while enjoying drinks at their onboard bar! The cruise lasts for two hours and includes informative commentary about each landmark along the way making it a great way to get an introduction into New York! Book a NYC Skyline Cruise here.

Conclusion

New York City has something for everyone from iconic landmarks such as The Empire State Building or The Statue Of Liberty, to urban oases such as Central Park or High Line Park! There are plenty of tours that are available that offer insights into all these must see places in depth making them perfect for those wanting to explore New York City in depth!