The 20 must-see places in New York

1/ Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

• Why visit? Standing on a small island in New York Harbor, the Statue of Liberty represents America itself. For New York, it’s what the Eiffel Tower is for Paris: the landmark you simply must see. A visit to the Statue of Liberty naturally extends to Ellis Island, which welcomed immigrants from the late 19th century through the early 20th century. Another crucial site in New York’s history.
• Tip: Schedule your visit to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island for the day after you arrive. Use jet lag to your advantage by catching the first ferry in the morning. You’ll avoid the long lines that build up by late morning.
• More info: Visit the dedicated pages for the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

2/ Brooklyn Bridge

• Why visit? This bridge connecting Manhattan to Brooklyn features distinctive architecture. You’ve likely seen it in countless films whenever New York appears on screen. The best part: Brooklyn Bridge has a pedestrian walkway with stunning views of Manhattan.
• Tip: Cross from Brooklyn to Manhattan in the morning. The sun will be at your back, perfectly lighting up Manhattan’s skyline.
• More info: Visit the dedicated page for Brooklyn Bridge.

3/ World Trade Center and Financial District

• Why visit? At the southern tip of Manhattan, the Financial District symbolizes American financial power. Head to Wall Street to see the iconic New York Stock Exchange. The district is dominated by One World Trade Center, the tallest building in North America. This tower replaced the original Twin Towers of the World Trade Center, destroyed in the September 11, 2001 attacks. The memory of 9/11 remains very present in New York. Take time to visit the memorial and the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. Don’t miss the Oculus, the striking World Trade Center transportation hub.
• Tip: To fully understand the Financial District, consider booking a guided tour. A 3-hour walking tour covers the neighborhood’s history from its origins to today. The guide has a background in finance, offering unique insights into the area.
• More info: Visit the dedicated page for the Financial District.

4/ Empire State Building

• Why visit? Though shorter than One World Trade Center, the Empire State Building remains an iconic symbol of New York. Opened in 1931, this skyscraper has appeared in countless films, from “The Day After Tomorrow” to “Independence Day.” Beyond its Art Deco interior, you can enjoy sweeping views from the observation deck on the 86th floor.
• Tip: Before heading to the 86th-floor observatory, take time to appreciate the building’s interior, especially the magnificent lobby on Fifth Avenue. Many visitors rush through without looking around.
• More info: Visit the dedicated page for the Empire State Building.

5/ Flatiron Building

• Why visit? The Flatiron Building ranks among New York’s most striking structures. Its triangular shape and slender profile seem to defy physics. Just across the street, take a break in the charming Madison Square Park. You’ll encounter New York’s friendly squirrels!
• Tip: Step inside the Flatiron Building—a small exhibition awaits. Read my article about the interior of the Flatiron Building.
• More info: Visit the dedicated page for the Flatiron Building.

6/ Chrysler Building

• Why visit? Completed in 1930, the Chrysler Building is now dwarfed by surrounding skyscrapers. Yet it still stands 319 m (1,047 ft) tall. It remains my personal favorite in New York for its elegant architecture.
• Tip: Don’t hesitate to enter the Chrysler Building. A small exhibition awaits in the lobby, and you can admire the beautiful Art Deco doors surrounding the elevators.
• More info: Visit the dedicated page for the Chrysler Building.

7/ Grand Central Terminal

• Why visit? You might be surprised to find a train station on a must-see list. Grand Central Terminal is no ordinary station. Its decor is absolutely unique and deserves a visit.
• Tip: Visit Grand Central on a weekday evening. The station buzzes with commuters rushing to catch their trains. The energy is electric!
• More info: Visit the dedicated page for Grand Central Terminal.

8/ United Nations Headquarters

• Why visit? The UN Headquarters immerses you in contemporary history and current events. Book a guided tour in advance by following my tips on the page explaining how to visit the UN. The tour includes the famous Security Council chamber and the General Assembly hall.
• Tip: After visiting the UN, head up 42nd Street. You’ll see or revisit the Chrysler Building, Grand Central Terminal, and Bryant Park.
• More info: Visit the dedicated page for the UN Headquarters in New York.

9/ Bryant Park

• Why visit? If you’ve never been to New York, this name might mean nothing to you. Yet I stand by it: Bryant Park deserves its place on the must-see list. This small park on 42nd Street in the heart of Midtown lets you feel the pulse of New York. Grab a chair, settle on the lawn, and watch the Empire State Building tower above you. That’s when you’ll know: you’ve arrived.
• Tip: Do as New Yorkers do—pack a picnic and enjoy it in Bryant Park.
• More info: Visit the dedicated page for Bryant Park.

10/ Rockefeller Center

• Why visit? Located in the heart of Midtown, Rockefeller Center is a real estate complex built in the 1930s. The buildings showcase beautiful Art Deco style, particularly the stunning lobby of the Comcast Building, the tallest building in the complex. Nearby, don’t miss St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Radio City Music Hall. Rockefeller Center is also home to Top of the Rock, its observation deck. This observatory sits lower than the Empire State Building’s and the One World Observatory at One World Trade Center, yet the views are exceptional—my personal favorite! If you don’t love the view, I’ll refund your ticket! 🙂
• Tip: Head to Top of the Rock right when it opens. You’ll skip the lines and catch the best light for viewing southern Manhattan.
• More info: Visit the dedicated pages for Rockefeller Center and Top of the Rock.

11/ Central Park

• Why visit? Central Park is Manhattan’s green lung—a vast park roughly 4 km (2.5 mi) long and 800 m (2,625 ft) wide. It offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. The park holds many surprises, from the Alice in Wonderland statue to the Balto statue. Central Park is also perfect if you want to bike in New York, rollerblade in New York, or even row on Central Park Lake. Don’t leave New York without experiencing Central Park.
• Tip: Explore Central Park on weekends for a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. The park is much more active than on weekdays.
• More info: Visit the page about 10 things to see in Central Park.

12/ Metropolitan Museum of Art

• Why visit? If you visit only one museum in New York, make it this one. The Metropolitan Museum of Art is the largest museum in New York—the city’s Louvre. Its collections span from ancient Egypt to today, including French Impressionists and American painting. If you love art, this is the place.
• Tip: Don’t miss the Met’s rooftop. Learn how to reach the roof of the Metropolitan Museum.
• More info: Visit the dedicated page for the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

13/ Times Square

• Why visit? Times Square is the world’s busiest intersection. The neighborhood pulses 24/7, bathed in neon and advertising screens. It’s intensely touristy, yes, but this unique madness is something you must experience.
• Tip: If you can manage it, visit Times Square on your first evening in New York. You’ll be overwhelmed by the spectacle—and the sensory overload will help keep you awake.
• More info: Visit the dedicated page for Times Square.

14/ The Summit

• Why visit? One Vanderbilt is a new giant tower, 427 m (1,401 ft) tall, opened in 2020 right next to Grand Central Terminal. The building is open to the public: since September 2021, an observation deck awaits at the top. Expect spectacular views of the Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, and Manhattan.
• Tip: This new observation deck is in high demand from visitors worldwide. Book your tickets as early as possible through our The Summit observation deck ticket reservation.
• More info: Visit the dedicated page for Summit One Vanderbilt.

15/ The High Line

• Why visit? The High Line is a walkway built on an abandoned elevated railroad track. This New York version connects the Meatpacking and Hudson Yards neighborhoods through Chelsea, offering unique views of southern Manhattan, the Empire State Building, and the Hudson River. In Hudson Yards, you’ll discover one of New York’s boldest creations: the Vessel, a structure somewhere between art installation and building. Learn more on the page dedicated to the Vessel.
• Tip: Pack a picnic for the High Line. You’ll find everything you need at Chelsea Market, a covered market at the southern entrance to the High Line.
• More info: Visit the dedicated page for the High Line.

16/ The Villages

• Why visit? New York isn’t just about skyscrapers. Greenwich Village and East Village offer a completely different atmosphere and scenery. Yet you’re still in the heart of New York.
• Tip: To see the best of both villages without wasting time, book a guided tour. The 3-hour tour gives you a complete overview of each neighborhood. Visit the page for the guided tour of Greenwich Village and East Village.
• More info: Visit the dedicated pages for Greenwich Village and East Village.

17/ SoHo and TriBeCa

• Why visit? SoHo and TriBeCa are two neighborhoods north of the Financial District. SoHo is worth visiting for its many fashion boutiques. TriBeCa features beautiful cast-iron buildings with distinctive facades. Both neighborhoods have a unique vibe—chic yet relaxed.
• Tip: If you want to shop, go on a weekday morning. You’ll have a more peaceful experience and better access to shop staff than on Saturday.
• More info: Visit the page for our guided tour of SoHo.

18/ Bushwick

• Why visit? Bushwick is a Brooklyn neighborhood known in recent years for its stunning street art. Here, “graffiti” means incredible murals. It’s a must-see for experiencing New York beyond Manhattan.
• Tip: Book a guided tour to discover Bushwick’s best murals and see the neighborhood properly. The 3.5-hour tour covers Bushwick, Williamsburg, and DUMBO, two other Brooklyn neighborhoods. Visit the page for the guided tour of Brooklyn.
• More info: Visit the dedicated page for Bushwick.

19/ Harlem

• Why visit? North of Central Park, the Harlem neighborhood tells the story of African American history and jazz. Harlem is also world-famous for its Sunday gospel services. Discover another side of New York.
• Tip: To experience the best of Harlem, book a guided tour. The 2.5-hour tour provides a complete overview of the neighborhood. Visit the page for the guided tour of Harlem.
• More info: Visit the page about murals to see in Harlem.

20/ Governors Island

• Why visit? If you visit New York, you should absolutely visit Governors Island. This island in New York Harbor, facing the Statue of Liberty, offers stunning views of New York. It’s accessible year-round.
• Tip: Plan your visit for Friday or Saturday evening to enjoy the extended hours. You can watch the sunset! Read my article about evening hours at Governors Island.
• More info: Visit the dedicated page for Governors Island.

Want to explore even more of New York?

• New York extends far beyond these 20 sites. This list covers the essential must-sees. From here, explore other attractions, landmarks, and museums based on your interests. To help you plan your New York trip and discover everything the city has to offer, consider my travel guide Destination New York. This 248-page full-color guide covers everything you need to see and know about New York.
• More information on the Destination New York guide page.