New York City Tourist Attractions
New York City is simply bursting at the seams with great things to see and do. It is a center of culture, history, art, activities, and much more.
Choices, Choices, Choices...
There are so many outstanding New York City tourist attractions. This is what makes NYC such a wonderful place to visit while at the same time presenting every visitor with the difficult question...What should I see?
There are a gazillion options but don’t get overwhelmed! This part of our guide focuses on the what, where, and how for many great New York City sights and landmarks and offers suggestions and advice that will help you decide what to see on your trip.
For the location of each attraction, see the New York City Tourist Attractions Map. To read what other visitors suggest, click here.
Things To See and Do in New York City
View the City from Above
Empire State Building
There's nothing quite like seeing a bird's eye view of a city as spectacular as New York. Take in the scene from the observation deck of New York's most famous skyscraper.
Top of the Rock
The Top of the Rock also has observation decks that offer dazzling views of the city below. It's location is perfect for viewing Central Park and the Empire State Building.
Need help deciding which one to visit? Read Empire State Building vs. Top of the Rock for tips to help you choose. Either way you won't be disappointed!
Take a Scenic Walk
Brooklyn Bridge
Experience this famous landmark up-close by walking across. It's hard to know which is more impressive - the bridge itself or the scenery around you.
Experience History
Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
Take a ferry trip and see what millions of immigrants encountered when they first arrived in the United State. Visit the iconic statue on Liberty Island and the historic immigration station on Ellis Island.
See Popular New York City Icons
Charging Bull
The giant bronze Charging Bull sculpture in Lower Manhattan attracts visitors from all over who love to rub, climb on, and have their pictures taken with the famous statue.
Take On the Urban Landscape
Times Square
Times Square is a place of high energy, constant movement, and a lot of lights. It's no wonder why this "Crossroads of the World" is a top New York City tourist attraction.
Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Center is the home to many notable buildings including Radio City Music Hall and 30 Rockefeller Plaza. Walk around, shop, or dine at this lively city hotspot.
See Great Architecture
Grand Central Terminal
New York City is full of inspiring architecture. The Main Concourse of Grand Central Terminal was modeled after a Roman bath. Find out why this train station is anything but ordinary.
Trinity Church
This historic church stands in contrast to the tall skyscrapers of Lower Manhattan. The towering steeple and colorful stained glass windows make it a beautiful place to behold.
Relax in a Park
New York City Parks
Yes, you can see nature in the middle of a big city! There are many beautiful parks to visit in NYC. When you're looking for a break from the busy streets, visiting a park may be just what you need.
Enrich Yourself at a Museum
New York City Museums
New York City has a great selection of stellar museums. See spectacular art by famous artists or dive into the history book. The Museum Mile is a good place to start.
Look Around a Market
New York City Markets
The city has fun and interesting markets full of curious foods and other goods. Find gourmet specialty items and fresh foods from local vendors.
When you’re planning, keep these tips in mind:
- Realize that you can’t do everything. The possibilities are practically endless and even if you lived here for a year, you wouldn’t be able to do it all.
- Prioritize. First, think about the interests of you and your travel companions and start making a list of the New York City tourist attractions you want to see. If there are certain attractions you don’t want to miss (or want to research more), then put them at the top of your list.
Remember, your vacation should be fun, not hectic. Make a point to see your highest priority items first and don’t worry if you can’t do it all. You can always come back!
There are enough New York City tourist attractions for many visits.
What is your favorite New York City attraction or travel experience?
What have you seen and done in New York City that you just can't keep to yourself? Share your experience and help others plan their trips!
What Other Visitors Have Said
Click below to see contributions from other visitors to this page...
New Year's Eve Just returned from New Year's Eve in NYC. Had the best time staying in the Central Park/Columbus Circle area. We skipped the crowds in Times Square in ...
So good they named it twice I've been to New York twice now and both times my favourite thing to do was walk through Central Park. It is so beautiful and so familiar even if you're ...
My NYC Experience My husband and I were in NYC in the Summer of 2007. It was our first time there and we were very excited. The city has a lot to offer and we couldn't get ...
Our Wedding in New York City Last August was our first trip to New York. We chose it as our wedding venue as we'd both always wanted to travel there. Most of it was booked in advance ...
Bring your comfy shoes
Wow, what to share. I think my favorite activity is just walking the neighborhoods to catch the flavor of each one. And eating in each one...
Loved ...
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