Being a tourist in New York, especially for the first time, is very difficult. This city has so much to offer that sometimes you don't know where to start. But how do you make sure you don't miss anything? We took care of that.
Below is a list of thirty-five attractions that no one should ever miss and that can be enjoyed all year round. The selection is a compilation of our favorite places in the city, including everything from great parks and art museums to food markets and historic sites.
➤ Statue of Liberty
One of the most famous sights of the USA – a majestic monument, which the poets called the new Colossus. If we take into account the pedestal, then the height of the statue is more than 90 meters. The symbol of freedom, which soon became the symbol of the whole country, was a gift from the French government. During the guided tour, you can climb inside the statue. There is a small museum there.
- Opening hours: every day from 9 am to 4 pm;
- Price: free;
- How to get there:the island where the statue is located can be reached by ferry from Battery Park.
➤ The Empire State Building
Famous before the filming of “King Kong” ; the skyscraper in the early years of its existence was equated with a new wonder of the world. The building consists of 102 floors, of which not all are accessible to the public. There is an observation deck on the 86th floor, which can be visited for a fee.
You can go up there by elevator, although some daredevils choose to walk. The observatory is located on the 102nd floor. There you can also find mooring masts for airships. As far as is known, none of them has been used for its intended purpose.
- Opening hours: every day from 12 noon to 10 pm;
- Cost: free;
- How to get there: the fastest way – use the subway the Broadway and Sixth Avenue lines will do.
➤ Central Park
Central Park in New York is considered one of the longest parks in the world. There are hotel complexes around, which is why the park is always full of tourists from all over the world: Brazil, Hungary, Japan, etc. There are many attractions on the territory, each of which is indicated by a corresponding sign.
And at the same time, this place breathes peace and tranquility. The park began to be built in the 19th century. During the development period, more than 4 million various plants were planted, lakes, ice rinks were created, and alleys were laid. Now there are several cafes and restaurants on the territory.
- Opening hours: around the clock;
- Price: free of charge;< /li>
- How to get there: You can walk or take a taxi from Times Square.
➤ Grand Central Station
The station was built at the beginning of the 20th century on the site of the Grand Central station. The nearest subway exit bears the same name as the station. The Central Station is recognized as the largest in the world. Numerous office buildings are located around the station. Inside the building there are many cafes, restaurants, various shops.
Here you can hire a professional guide who will tell you in detail the history of this place. The ceiling of the central station is decorated with an image of the starry sky, which was restored not so long ago. If you look closely, you can see that the sky is depicted backwards.
- Operating hours: every day from 6 am to 2 am;
- < strong>Cost: free;
- How to get there: can be reached by metro from lines S, 4, 5, 6, 7.
< h2>➤ Brooklyn Bridge
Until the beginning of the 20th century, the Brooklyn Bridge was considered the longest suspension bridge in operation. Its length is about 2 km, and the length of the largest span between supports – almost 500 meters. The bridge accommodates six car lanes and a fairly wide pedestrian lane. The bridge offers a wonderful view of the city, which attracts a huge number of tourists every year.
- Opening hours: around the clock;
- Price : free;
- How to get there: You can get there by subway via the orange line on the F train.
➤ Rockefeller Center< /h2>
The center, whose construction was begun by John Rockefeller Sr., is located between Fifth and Sixth Avenues. This is a whole complex of 19 buildings, which at the end of the 20th century was officially recognized as a historical monument of national importance.
It is literally a city within a city. There are many offices, shops, various studios, an ice rink and a music hall. In addition, it is worth visiting the observation deck, which offers an amazing view of the central part of Manhattan.
- Opening hours: around the clock;
- Price : free;
- How to get there: the most convenient way – take the metro using lines B, D, F, M, N, Q, R.
➤ High Line Park
In the very center of Manhattan, the High Line Park stretches along the railway overpass. The overpass was closed at the end of the 20th century. Now it is a place for calm walks in silence among lush greenery and flowers. The park conditionally consists of three parts. The first part was started in 2006 and completed in 2009.
The park was completed in full in 2019. Professional guides will tell you why else this park – special, what kind of plants are planted here and who are the “West Side Cowboys”. The tour ends at the pier where passengers who survived the wreck of the Titanic were met.
- Opening hours: around the clock;
- Price: free;
- How to get there: the park is located between two streets: Gansevoort Street and West 34th.
➤ The National Memorial and September 11 Museum
The memorial is dedicated to the victims of the tragic events that took place on September 11th. The idea of the project originated in 2003, but the construction of the memorial was completed in 2011. The project was selected from many others. A competition was held by the corporation involved in the development of Lower Manhattan. Its finalist received the right to realize the project of the monument. The memorial consists of two pools located exactly on the places where skyscrapers once stood.
- Opening hours: around the clock;
- < strong>Cost:from $10;
- How to get there: you can get there by subway using lines A, C, J, Z, 2, 3, 4, 5.
- Opening hours: every day from 10 am to 5 pm, Friday and closes at 21:00 on Saturday;
- Price: Admission starts at $12;
- How to get there:can be reached by subway lines 4, 5, 6.
- Opening hours: around the clock;
- Price: free of charge;
- How to get there: within walking distance from different parts of the city.
- Opening hours:Thursday to Monday, 11 am to 6 pm;
- Price: Admission starts at $10;
- How to get there:< /strong> can be reached by underground using lines 4, 5, 6, A, B, C.
- Opening hours: from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 am to 5 pm;
- Price: Admission starts at $12;
- How to get there: Accessible by metro, line A.
- Opening hours: every day from 9:00 to 17:00;
- How to get there: You can take a ferry from Battery Park.
- Opening hours: around the clock;
- Fee: free;
- How to get there: Fifth Avenue is adjacent to Washington Square.
- Opening hours: every day from 10 am to 6 pm;
- Cost:entrance ticket costs from $13;
- How to get there: you can get there by metro using lines A, B, C.
- Opening hours: around the clock;
- Price: free ;
- How to get there: the fastest way – accessible by subway, but walkable from midtown Manhattan.
- Opening hours: around the clock;
- Cost: free;
- How to get there: Walkable on Broadway or Fifth Avenue.
- Opening hours: around the clock;
- Fee: free;
- How to get there: You can get there by metro using lines 2, 3, 4, 5.
- Opening hours: every day from 7 am to 21 pm;
- Fee: Admission starts at $20;
- How to get there: There is a Fifth Avenue subway station near the cathedral.
- Opening hours: around the clock;
- Cost: free;
- How to get there: You can take the yellow, green and gray metro lines.
- Opening hours: from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 am to 5 pm;
- Price: Check the ticket price before visiting the site;
- How to get there: You can walk along Fifth Avenue.
- Opening hours: around the clock;
- Cost:< /strong> free;
- How to get there:the park can be reached by bus, subway, taxi, or walk through Fifth Avenue.
- Opening hours: around the clock;
- Cost:free;
- How to get there: Walking distance along Eighth Avenue.
- Opening hours: around the clock;
- Price: free;
- How to get there: You can get here by bus or walk from Houston Street.
- Opening hours: in order to get on a tour, you must first sign up through the UN website;
- Cost: you need to check on the official website;
- How to get there:you can get there by subway line 6.
- Opening hours: around the clock;
- Price:free of charge;
- How to get there: the Botanical Garden can be reached by metro lines 2, 3, 4, 5.
- Opening hours: from Tuesday to Sunday, check the website before excursion;
- Price: free;
- How to get there: can be reached by metro lines B, D, F, M , S.
- Opening hours: around the clock;
- Price: free;
- How to get there:the fastest way – take the subway lines 2, 3, E.
- Operating hours: around the clock;
- Fee: free;
- How to get there: The building can be reached by metro lines 4, 5, 6, 7.
- Opening hours: around the clock;
- Price : check the price on the site;
- How to get there:you can walk here from New York's Central Park.
- Opening hours: from Monday to Sunday, from 10 am to 21 pm;< /li>
- Cost: tickets can be booked for free on the official website of the project;
- How to get there: you can get to the building by metro if you use 7 line.
- Opening hours: around the clock;
- Price: free ;
- How to get there: you can walk here along Columbia Heights.
- Opening hours: around the clock;
- Price:< /strong> free of charge;
- How to get there: you can get here by metro line D, N, Q, F.
- Opening hours: around the clock;
- Price:< /strong> free;
- How to get there: Walking distance from Broadway or Seventh Avenue.
- Opening hours: around the clock;
- Cost: free;
- How to get there: you can get here by meter or by bus.
< /ul>
➤ Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Metropolitan Museum of Art is officially recognized as the largest museum in New York. In addition, it is one of the largest museums in the world. It all started with several private collections, which were brought together at the end of the 19th century. Now the museum has 17 different sections, each of which corresponds to a specific continent and period of history.
In addition to them, there is also a category of temporary exhibitions. Usually it is about 10 exposures, which are regularly replaced. The museum building has several cafes and recreation areas so that visitors can spend time in comfort.
➤ Broadway
Probably one of the most famous streets in the world. 25 kilometers of the road crosses many areas of the city. It is believed that this path cannot be covered in one day, given how much there is on Broadway. The atmosphere of luxury, bohemianism, the spirit of business and the flair of fashion – it is easy for a tourist to get lost in the abundance of everything that Broadway offers.
The mixture of historical eras that can be traced in the architecture of adjacent buildings is especially interesting. Interesting fact: all the skyscrapers on this street have a common – they are slightly tapered towards the top. As the locals say, they did this so that the buildings would not steal the sky.
➤ Solomon Guggenheim Museum
Solomon Guggenheim was a philanthropist who made his fortune in the successful conduct of business in the industrial field. In addition, he was a well-known collector. Interestingly, the museum named after him was initially housed only in rented areas until settling in the current building.
The Guggenheim collected works of art that can now be enjoyed in the museum. These are mainly paintings by avant-garde artists, but among them there are also works by masters of the Early Renaissance.
➤ The Cloisters Museum
Cloiters is part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This building was created by the forces of John Rockefeller Jr. Here all works are devoted to one period – Middle Ages. The collection is not limited to paintings, here you can find old manuscripts, crosses, tapestries and other items that have survived to this day to varying degrees. An interesting story is connected with the name of the museum. It refers to the five French monasteries, parts of which were used in the construction of the museum building.
➤ Ellis Island
This is where many started their journey to the American Dream. At the end of the 19th century, a reception center for immigrants was opened on the island. Here they issued permits for entry and flashing in the United States of America. The second name of Ellis Island – Isle of Tears.
A small percentage of immigrants were not allowed through under any pretext due to serious illnesses. There is also a third name – Oyster Island. Everything is simple here: there are many places around the island where oysters are found. At some point, their habitats were destroyed due to artificial drainage.
< li>Fee: from $19;
➤ Fifth Avenue
One of the largest shopping areas in the United States is located in Manhattan. There are shops of famous brands such as Tiffany and Hugo Boss, – shopping lovers will appreciate. In addition, you can find more than 10 famous museums on just one street, including the Metropolitan and the Guggenheim Museum.
The avenue divides the island into western and eastern parts, which is reflected in the name of the Manhattan streets. Interestingly, trams have never run along Fifth Avenue, but you can find tourist buses here.
➤ American Museum of Natural History< /h2>
The museum was founded by enthusiasts at the end of the 19th century. The original idea is believed to have come from the naturalist Albert S. Bickmore. The first natural history museum was set up in the old Arsenal, which was located on the territory of Central Park. The museum later moved to its current location.
The original building was much smaller. It was a small structure built according to the designs of Calvert Vaux. But the collection gradually expanded, so new buildings and premises had to be completed. The museum has many collections on a variety of topics that will be of interest to both adults and children.
➤ Chinatown
A piece of China in the middle of New York. At any time of the day you will find something to do here. Numerous cafes and shops, some of which open only when it is already dark. There is an interesting museum on this street that tells about the life of the Chinese in America.
The quarter began to be settled at the beginning of the 19th century, and at the end of the 20th century a new wave of immigrants poured in here. The most interesting thing is that, despite the fact that Chinatown – it is a popular tourist destination, prices are low almost everywhere.
➤ Flatiron Building
The name of the building is translated into Russian as “iron”. The shape of the building really resembles a pot-bellied iron. Once upon a time, the Fuller company was located here, so the building is still sometimes called the Fuller Building by the people. At the beginning of the 20th century, it was one of the largest projects in the city, over 90 meters high.
➤ Wall Street
The world famous bronze bull, created by Arturo di Modica, attracts thousands of tourists every year. Wall Street – this is a relatively narrow and not long street, on which numerous banks, offices, stock exchanges are bridged. Financial transactions were being made here already in the 18th century.
Over time, the spontaneous securities market formed an orderly structure, becoming the Platanov Association of Brokers. Previously, there were mass tours here, but then they stopped due to security concerns of organizations whose offices are located on Wall Street.
< /ul>
➤ St. Patrick's Cathedral
The cathedral houses the image of the patroness of New York, Mary of Guadalupe. Interestingly, the temple altar was created by a world-famous company – jewelry house Tiffany. Some time ago, the cathedral was closed for reconstruction. Now it has reopened its doors to tourists and locals. St. Patrick's Cathedral is deservedly considered the brightest representative of the neo-Gothic architectural style of the 19th century.
➤ Union Square
The square was built at the crossroads of two post roads, which are now called Broadway and Bowery. “Union” in the name of the square means “unity”, which is very symbolic. It was here that representatives of the working class gathered for rallies. There are many cultural and entertainment points near the park, and farmers' fairs are held directly on its territory several times a week.
➤ Frick Collection Art Museum
Children under the age of 10 are not allowed into this museum. Inside you will find beautifully preserved pieces of art, the oldest of which date back to the Renaissance. In addition to paintings, you should pay attention to furniture, carpets, silverware. The atmosphere of luxury and pomposity reigns in the museum, which is set by the plots of sculptures, paintings and engravings. Near the museum is located the Frick Library, famous for its extensive collection.
➤ Washington Square Park
Washington Square – a favorite destination for tourists and native New Yorkers alike. This place became the central square of the city's main university. Therefore, at any time of the day there are many students, street artists. But it was not always so. In the 19th century, a cemetery for the lower strata of the population was located on the site of the cemetery. No one moved the graves, they are still located on the territory of Washington Square.
➤ Madison Square Garden Complex
MSG, as they call it the building is local, contains a whole sports complex. However, this is not the only building that bore this name. Moreover, Madison Square is quite far from the complex. You can find out how this happened if you follow the guided tour inside Madison Square Garden.
➤ Soho Area
Low buildings, so contrasting with skyscrapers in other parts of New York. The name Soho is derived from the English phrase “south of Houston”. Now it is one of the districts that the youth of the city has chosen. There are many themed coffees and a lot of different shops. The architecture of the streets is interesting because different eras collide here. Relatively modern finishes side by side with cast-iron facades.
➤ UN Headquarters
For some people, visiting the UN Headquarters is like fulfilling a childhood dream. Although you need to sign up for a tour in advance, but if you suddenly find yourself next to the building, you can partially inspect it for free. 39 floors of the monumental building are decorated with flags of almost 200 countries that are members of the UN. Every year, a general assembly is held in this building, in which representatives of the highest authorities participate.
➤ Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Brooklyn Botanic Garden is the second largest in New York City. The garden is divided into 12 sections, each containing its own set of plants. Moreover, each has its own unique atmosphere and style. The best time to visit the Brooklyn Botanic Garden is in the spring. Then you will find it in all its glory.
➤ New York Public Library
The Public Library is a complex of separate buildings located in different parts of New York. In total, it has about 87 branches, which store more than 25 million books.
The idea of a library that would unite individual buildings into a single network arose at the very beginning of the 20th century. The construction would not have been possible without the participation of the illustrious philanthropist Carnegie, who has invested more than 5 million in a promising project.
➤ Woolworth Building
The neo-gothic building in the first years of its existence was considered the tallest in the world. And until now, it is included in the list of TOP 50 high-rise buildings in the United States. Its height is over 240 meters. There is an observation deck on the 58th floor.
Up until the beginning of the 21st century, until the twin towers were destroyed as a result of a terrorist attack, the Woolworth Building was often photographed along with the giant brothers. The building stood right between them.
➤ The Chrysler Building
The Chrysler Building is located right next to Grand Central Station in New York. Until the Empire State came into being, the Chrysler was considered the tallest building in the city. The building was designed in the Art Deco style, popular in New York in the 30s of the XX century.
The construction was financed by Walter Chrysler, a well-known businessman. Curiously, he took the money from his personal budget, and not from the accounts of his company. The roof of the building consists of seven radial arches-terraces, which repeat the image on the car disks of the Chrysler company.
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➤ Waldorf-Astoria
A luxurious hotel with nearly 2,000 rooms. Those who stay here have a high status: they are deputies, artists, eminent athletes and statesmen. Since the beginning of the 20th century, the Waldorf-Astoria has maintained its status as one of the most prestigious hotels in New York. Inside you can see many paintings and mosaics of both artistic and historical value.
➤ The Vessel
The futuristic building has grown in the heart of the popular tourist area. Hudson Yards annually attracts crowds of tourists, among which the majority – youth from different countries. The name of the complex is translated as a vessel.
The building contains more than 80 viewing platforms. They are connected to each other by numerous flights of stairs. By exploring different sites, you can see New York from new angles and from unexpected sides.
➤ Brooklyn Heights
The promenade project came about as a response to a protest against the construction of an expressway leading to Queens. Brooklyn Heights – this is a platform that covers part of the track from above. It is a popular place for leisurely walks and sports. In addition, the entire platform – excellent lookout overlooking the skyscrapers of Manhattan.
➤ Coney Island
The entertainment complex is located in Brooklyn. There are many attractions here: from the Ferris wheel to high-speed slides. Those who are looking for fun come to Coney Island. In addition to the amusement park, there is an open beach and many souvenir shops with cafes.
➤ Square Times Square
The most famous square in the world – Times Square. It was named after the New York Times, a newspaper whose office was located on the square at the end of the 19th century. Colorful buildings, monumental architecture, non-obvious sights – the square can be explored for many days and there is always something new to discover.
➤ Harlem
< p> the Northern area which has become famous for large criminal gangs. In the 17th century, this territory was inhabited by Indians, but they were quickly forced out by immigrants from African countries. The area is named after the Dutch city of Haarlem. It is considered one of the most disadvantaged places in New York.