50 Must-See Landmarks In NY (with photos)

20th January, 2023

What are the must-see landmarks in NY? Which of these landmarks deserve a spot on your New York itinerary? I reveal all and more in this article outlining the 50 must-see landmarks in NY. Ready to find out more? Keep reading…

Contents

50 Must-See Landmarks In NY

50 Must-See Landmarks In NY

New York is among the world’s greatest business hubs. But it also has many fantastic landmarks, so if you don’t explore them during your visit, your tour is incomplete. This guide will tell you about 50 of those most monumental landmarks in NY. They cover from visits to Chinatown and Bronx Zoo to admiring Brooklyn Bridge and the iconic Lady with the Torch.

Most of these are located in Manhattan, as it is the primary tourist spot, while the residents live in other boroughs. But overall, New York City is filled with so many landmarks that you probably get lost or miss some out if you don’t have the correct list. Here is the complete guide to all the notable places you must visit. So, let’s get into their details, Pronto!

1. Start with the Statue of Liberty

Location: Liberty Island

What comes to your mind when someone talks about New York? The Statue of Liberty, of course. This France’s gift to the US has fascinated millions of its viewers since 1886 and signifies the country’s pride.

The 152-feet tall statue is a symbol of freedom as it represents a Roman goddess with a torch in her right hand, and Tabula Ansata (dating the US independence, 4th July 1776) in her left hand.

2. Have a Day in the Central Park

Location: Manhattan

Central Park is among the most popular and most visited tourist attractions in the city and it is one of the best free things to do in New York. The gigantic park was designed by Calvert Vaux and Frederick Law Olmsted and completed in 1873.

This 843-acre spread calm-land is home to many attractions, including, ponds, reservoirs, outcrops, playgrounds, a central lake, fountains, and yeah, also a zoo. It is open to numerous activities and completely exploring them all in only one day is almost impossible.

3. Visit St Patrick’s Cathedral

Location: Midtown Manhattan

If you are interested in Gothic-style buildings, St Patrick’s Cathedral is a must-go. It is a Catholic Cathedral facing Fifth Avenue, across the Rockefeller Center. Its construction was completed in 20 years between 1858 & 1878. Recently, it also got a $177m restoration for three years, before Pope Francis’s 2015 visit. You don’t want to miss the artistic sculptures and craftsmanship on the building, which has free entry.

4. Take a Tour of MoMA

Location: Midtown Manhattan

New York has another place for ancient lovers, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). It houses all the fantastic 150,000 art collections from the 18th century. It is one of the largest museums where you can witness masterpieces from iconic artists.

The Starry Night by Van Gogh, Dalí’s The Persistence of Memory, Picasso’s Les Demoiselles d’Avignon, and The Dance by Matisse, you will find here every famous art to see for real.

5. Reserve a Walk on Broadway

Location: Midtown Manhattan

Let’s get out of ancient times for a moment. You may want to see some light and entertainment now. So, head to Broadway, where you will bluster by the lights of theaters, cinemas, and especially operas. The street will quench your thirst for musical needs. Book a ticket for either classic The Lion King, or watch the show Phantom of the Opera, still running in its theaters.

6. Don’t Forget the Times Square

Location: Midtown Manhattan

After a delightful show on Broadway, head towards Seventh Avenue, as you cross Times Square during the walk. It is among the best night-time landmarks in NYC. The junction will surround you with lights, screens, signs, advertising, and much more. The big screens and live billboards attract millions from around the world. The point is also one of the famous locations at New Year due to the ball drop.

7. Stroll Down the High Line

Location: Manhattan & Chelsea

The High Line is among the best walkable landmarks in NYC. It is a railway viaduct turned into a 1.5 miles long elevated linear park. The track was opened in 2009, connecting Chelsea and Manhattan by a long stroll. The path will gift your eyes with magnificent views of the Hudson River on the south, and the Hudson Yard on the north. So, reserving an evening walk on this track is a must.

8. Feed Pigeons in Greenwich Village

Location: Manhattan

Greenwich Village was once known for the LGBT movement but is now less popular among such communities due to high housing costs. Still, it’s worth a visit because of Washington Square and Bleeker Street. You can feed some pigeons in the calm environment of the area. It is also famous for the shooting of Friends and Sex and the City. So, remember to take a stroll down the street to spot their used apartments.

9. Book a Day at Hudson Yard

Location: Manhattan

The Hudson Yard is one of the ultra-modern landmarks in NYC, which was (believe it or not) a storage yard and abandoned train tracks. The New York architects have done a miracle by transforming it into a place of glass-covered skyscrapers, malls, theatres, and restaurants. But when you visit Hudson Yard, don’t miss its signature monument, the Vessel.

10. Get Bird Eye Views of the City

If you visited New York and have not spectated the city from various observation desks scattered across the city in many buildings, your tour is incomplete. This list of landmarks in NY also features a couple of observation platforms individually, but making a must-do point here is to remind you they are not the only observation decks in the city. One you can find in the previous landmark (Hudson Yard) is the Edge.

11. Spend Time at Union Square

Location: Manhattan

Union Square is one of the most favorite landmarks in NYC for demonstrators and protestors. But put it out of your bucket list, as the protests don’t happen every day. There you will meet various artists and performers earning by expressing their talent in public. Also, many dog lovers have a walk with their canines, so you probably get a chance to cuddle some fluffy balls on your way.

12. Blow Your Mind in Artechouse NYC

Location: Chelsea

Enough with Manhattan. New York also has Chelsea, which is filled with the most interesting and must-see locations. One of them is the Artechouse NYC. You probably haven’t seen something so digitally colorful and overwhelming like the studio under Chelsea Market.

The room costs you $25 for 30-60 minutes, where you get a submerging experience in the room of colors paired with the perfect music. The floor, walls, and ceiling all become alive, giving you the best hour of your life.

13. Visit Guggenheim Museum

Location: Upper Manhattan

Welcome back to Manhattan. Yes, it’s again as the region has some of the most iconic landmarks in NYC. This time, it is the Guggenheim Museum that houses impressionist, contemporary, and modern art. The building is a state-of-the-art symbol in itself.

Its shell-like structure earns it a place as a National Historic Landmark and on the UNESCO World Heritage List. You will find there from astonishing artworks by Picasso and Mondrian to even a functioning 18-karat gold toilet.

14. Stroll Across Brooklyn Bridge

Location: East River

Once the longest suspension bridge, Brooklyn Bridge is one of the crucial landmarks in NYC. It connects Lower Manhattan with Brooklyn, and one of its sections is particularly designated for pedestrians. So, it may be a long but absolutely fascinating walk across the East River. Completed in 1883, it hosted a 21 elephants parade the next year, proving the strength and integrity of the structure.

15. Pay Tribute at National 9/11 Memorial

Location: Lower Manhattan

9/11 isn’t something everyone likes to refresh, but a tribute to the soul in peace may help. The 9/11 memorial is built on the 8-acre park where the World Trade Center used to be. The twin reflecting pools at the tower’s exact location is North America’s largest man-made waterfalls. On your tour to New York City, remember to spend some time there in tribute to the dead.

16. Read in New York Public Library

Location: Midtown Manhattan

New York also has a fantastic place for you if you are a bookworm. The New York Public Library is the second largest library system in the United States and the third largest globally. Its big common room is large enough to cover two city blocks. Apart from housing an enormous collection of books on diversified topics, the library also featured in many films like Ghostbusters and The Day After Tomorrow.

17. Visit the Brooklyn Bridge Park

Location: Brooklyn

The Brooklyn Bridge Park is a fantastic place to view the sunset while admiring the Manhattan skyline behind the Brooklyn Bridge. This one of the famous landmarks in NY took almost a decade to complete, as it converted Brooklyn Piers 1-6. Before the bridge’s construction, ferries and ships used the area as ports, but it became useless due to the bridge. Now the area is revived in the form of a park for recreation and beautiful sights.

18. Inspect Medieval Times at The Met Cloisters

Location: Upper Manhattan

If you have some interest in medieval times, the Met Cloisters will get your best attention. It is among the most underrated landmarks in NYC, as many people overlook the history it kept. Standing at the top of Fort Tryon Park, the museum has around 5,000 artifacts from ancient times like the 11th and the 12th century (some from even the 9th century).

19. Don’t Miss the Empire State Building

Location: Midtown Manhattan

Before 1970, the Empire State Building was the world’s tallest and one of the most integral landmarks in NYC. It is also one of seven modern wonders of the world, featuring in several movies like King Kong, Sleepless in Seattle, and Superman II. It has two observation decks on the 86th and 102nd floors. But you need to buy special tickets for the sunrise or nighttime (or both), and believe us, and it is worth a dime.

20. Walk Down the Fifth Avenue

Location: Manhattan

If you are a spend-thrift, Fifth Avenue might be probably a place you want to avoid. It is the world’s most expensive shopping street, which may upset your budget if you don’t plan it beforehand. But it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go there at all. A brisk walk and some window shopping won’t do any harm. While you walk down the street, you will also revisit many landmarks mentioned above.

21. Visit the Bronx Zoo

Location: The Bronx

The Bronx Zoo is also some of those landmarks in NYC on this list that is not in Manhattan. It is the United State’s largest zoo that is spread across 265 acres and is a habitat for nearly 8,000 animals. The zoo has saved numerous animals like American Bison and Sumatran Rhinos from extinction. Apart from wildlife sightseeing, you can also spend some extra bucks on a 4D theater, Butterfly Garden and Zoo Shuttle.

22. Shop at Rockefeller Center

Location: Midtown Manhattan

The Rockefeller Center is among the most significant landmarks in NYC. It is a complex consisting of 19 buildings between Fifth and Sixth Avenue. 14 out of 19 are Art Deco buildings, and the rest five are international style. The complex houses so much for you from music to shopping. It also has an observation deck, named Top of the Rock. And if you visit in December, you will witness the famous Rockefeller Christmas Tree.

23. Spend a Night at Metropolitan Opera House

Location: Upper Manhattan

For classic lovers, the Metropolitan Opera House is a must-see place for them. If you have any interest in opera music, don’t hesitate to have a night show here. The structure is the world’s most advanced opera house, having La Bohème, Madama Butterfly, and Porgy & Bess as the seasonal highlights.

24. Take Off with Air & Space Museum

Location: Manhattan

Feel the thrill of WWII as you visit the military aircraft museum in (again) Manhattan. The Air & Space Museum has some of America’s finest military vehicles from World War II and others. One is the USS Intrepid, which survived 5 kamikaze attacks, while another is USS Growler, the only publicly opened guided missile submarine. Try to save the day for this museum. It will be worth it.

25. View Sunset at Battery Park

Location: Lower Manhattan

Battery Park is among the small landmarks in NYC that you must visit during sunset. If you don’t want to spend money on observation decks for the sunsets, this is the best place at that time. The calm environment while you watch the sun going down, along the Liberty Lady, as some ferries pierce through the water, all contribute to the most peaceful end of the day.

26. Admire the Flatiron Building

Location: Manhattan

The Flatiron Building is one of the most attractive landmarks in NYC. Built in 1902, its popularity among photographers and artists has made it an enduring city symbol. It was also one of the world’s tallest in 1902, so New York has a wide history of making the tallest skyscrapers. The Flatiron Building is not only one of city’s first skyscrapers but also the first steel-skeleton structure whose construction is visible to the general public.

27. Enjoy a Good Laugh at Apollo Theater

Location: Upper Manhattan

Apollo Theater is among the most significant landmarks in NYC, featuring African American popular music. The Apollo was the central theatre on Harlem’s main commercial street, and its location reflected its cultural importance. Almost every major African American musical act performed here at least once. These days, you can have a decent medicine of laughter in the comedy shows it hosts today.

28. Dine in Chelsea Market

Location: Chelsea

Chelsea Market has become an internationally recognized brand due to its shopping sector and restaurants. It is regarded as one of the world’s best indoor food and retail marketplaces. So, you can enjoy dining in the soothing ambiance of the city, while savoring different cuisines. But it’s not all about food. Chelsea Market is also home to some upmarket stores offering gifts, jewelry, flowers, and home goods at a reasonable price.

29. Don’t Miss the Grand Central Terminal

Location: Midtown Manhattan

Grand Central Terminal is a train station, located on 42nd Street and Park Avenue. Because its name is similar to that of a nearby post office, it is commonly referred to as Grand Central Station. It is the world’s largest train station in platform count and floor area and was among the 10 most visited tourist attractions in 2018. The 49-acre complex houses 44 platforms and 67 tracks on two levels.

30. Cool Off at Washington Square Park

Location: Manhattan

Washington Square Park is a beautiful 5-acre open space and is among the peaceful landmarks in NYC with grass, trees, pathways, and a statue of George Washington astride a horse. You will see many performers like Union Square across your stroll. But having a light cool-off at the fountain with others won’t be a bad idea. Otherwise, it is a great picnic spot for many families and couples.

31. Picnic at Bryant Park

Location: Midtown Manhattan

Bryant Park is another excellent location and is considered among the best picnic landmarks in NYC. Locals and visitors alike enjoy it as a popular meetup destination. However, if you visit it in the winter and forget your blanket, they are also available but on a first-come, first-served basis. The park is well-known for its lush seasonal gardens, free activities, first-rate restrooms, and outdoor dining.

32. Book a Helicopter Tour of the City

On your tour, a helicopter tour of the city is the top priority of must-see. But the activity is placed so low in the list due to its price. But if you can afford it, the hottest all-inclusive helicopter tour in New York City will dazzle you with spectacular views of many landmarks in NYC. A ride of 15 to 30 minutes will be enough to give you a memory you will never forget.

33. Enjoy a Show at Radio City Music Hall

Location: Midtown Manhattan

Radio City Music Hall was planned to be a people’s palace, a place of beauty where ordinary people could enjoy high-quality entertainment. Its four-tiered auditorium was the world’s largest when it opened. The theater also houses a variety of artwork.

Although the Hall was originally intended to host stage shows, it converted into a movie palace within a year of its opening. It is best known as the country’s leading hall for popular concerts, stage shows, special attractions, and media events.

34. Take a Ride on Roosevelt Island

Location: Manhattan

If you have time, a trip to Roosevelt Island is highly recommended. It is one of New York City’s best-kept secrets, as it provides a relaxing pause from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Roosevelt Island is one of New York City’s hidden gems, with suitable transportation in the form of its aerial Tramway. You travel 250 feet above the city, witnessing the breathtaking views of landmarks in NYC along the journey.

35. View the Chrysler Building

Location: Manhattan

It is one of the most well-known structures in New York City and has a stronger presence in the Manhattan skyline. The Chrysler Building is an Art Deco skyscraper on New York’s East Side. There is no need for tickets for the Chrysler Building. You are welcome to enter the lobby whenever the building is open.

36. Pay a Visit to the Whitney Museum of American Art

Location: Manhattan

The Whitney Museum of American Art is one of the best gallery landmarks in NYC. The museum exhibits more than 20,000 artworks by numerous famous artists, including Alexander Calder, Jackson Pollock, Helen Frankenthaler, and Edward Hopper. The building’s interesting architecture results in getting tourists’ attention as well.

37. Stroll the SoHo

Location: Manhattan

The South of Houston Street, commonly abbreviated as SoHo, was once a working-class neighborhood full of factories and row houses. Today, this area is best known for its arts and shopping. Soho was almost entirely made up of fields (hence the name Soho Fields), with a few farm buildings thrown in for good measure.

Soho is also known for its vibrant and, at times, broad atmosphere. It will be worth it to take out some time for brunch and a brisk walk on the street. You might find a new favorite restaurant like the natives.

38. Quick Visit Little Italy

Location: Lower Manhattan

Little Italy is worth a visit if you want to sample delicious imported Italian specialties. You’ll also catch a glimpse of some of the restaurants and bars. As of now, the area is reduced to merely three blocks wide, and you can have just a quick stroll in the area, grabbing something Italian in the US.

39. Pass by the United Nations Headquarters

Location: Midtown Manhattan

One of the greatest landmarks in NYC is the UN Headquarters. It houses the United Nations’ principal organs, including the General Assembly and Security Council. Although the headquarters ground is in New York, the US government doesn’t have any administration over the building.

You can also visit the building. The Visitor Centre is open seven days a week, but guided tours are only available Monday through Friday.

40. Visit the South Street Seaport

Location: Lower Manhattan

The South Street Seaport offers visitors a chance to see the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island from a great distance. It is also home to several restaurants and shops. The seaport was once a major hub for maritime activity and was the site of the first U.S. Customs House. Today, the seaport is a popular tourist destination and is one of the most photographed landmarks in NYC.

41. Take a Trip to the New York Botanical Garden

Location: Bronx

The New York Botanical Garden is a national historic site and among the most beautiful landmarks in NYC. The 250-acre site includes 50 different gardens and plant collections.

The Garden is also a major educational institution, offering classes and workshops for all ages. Visitors can explore the grounds via walking trails or take a tram tour. If you love natural views and want peaceful surroundings, this garden is a must-visit.

42. Sunbath at Coney Island

Location: Brooklyn

If you are looking for an iconic summer destination for a perfect sunbath, Coney Island is the place to go. With its wide open spaces and sandy beaches, it’s easy to find a spot to relax and soak up some rays. It is also home to the world-famous Cyclone roller coaster, the Wonder Wheel Ferris wheel, and Nathan’s Famous hot dog stand. In short, Coney Island has something for everyone.

43. View a Match at Yankee Stadium

Location: Bronx

In the heart of the Bronx lies Yankee Stadium, one of the most beloved landmarks in NYC. The stadium has been home to the New York Yankees since 1923 and has seen some of baseball’s greatest moments. Even if you’re not a baseball fan, taking a tour of Yankee Stadium is a must-do while in town. If you are lucky enough to catch a game, you’ll experience firsthand why this place is so revered by locals and tourists alike.

44. Roam in Madison Square Park

Location: Manhattan

The history of Madison Square Park dates back to 1686, when it was part of a farm owned by Governor Thomas Dongan. So, it packs quite a history in itself. Covering an area of 8.5 acres, it is a popular destination for foodies. The Park is also home to many events and activities, including the annual Easter egg hunt, the Halloween parade, and the Christmas tree lighting, that you probably love to witness.

45. Have a Walk in Chinatown

Location: Lower Manhattan

Chinatown has the largest Chinese population outside China. Whenever you crave something Chinese, it is the best place to go. It is also a great place to learn about their culture and history without visiting the country. There are many museums and cultural centers that exhibit Chinese art, history, and culture. You can also take classes in the Chinese language and cooking. But don’t get confused if you see the same person five times on your 3-minute walk.

46. View the City from One World Observatory

Location: Lower Manhattan

Located in the World Trade Center, One World Observatory is one of the best landmarks in NYC you can visit. It offers stunning views of the city and its skyline in 360. As it is a part of the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, you can see up to 50 miles in every direction from the observatory’s windows. That means you can see landmarks like the Empire State Building, Central Park, Brooklyn Bridge, and Statue of Liberty all in one place.

47. Visit the National Museum of the American Indian

Location: Lower Manhattan

If you want to take a peep into prehistoric America, don’t wait to book a ticket to the National Museum of the American Indian. This museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting the history and culture of Native Americans. It is home to a large collection of artifacts, artwork, and clothing of that time.

It is a great place to learn about the rich history and culture of American Indians. The museum also offers various exhibits and programs that are sure to educate and entertain visitors of all ages.

48. Shop at Brookfield Place

Location: Downtown Manhattan

Located on the west side of Broadway between Liberty Street and Vesey Street, Brookfield Place is a fantastic shopping mall in New York City. The mall opened on March 16, 2016, and contains over 100 stores and restaurants.

Today, it is worth $250 million with stores like Gucci, Hermes, and Louis Vuitton. So, whether you’re looking for designer clothes, exquisite jewelry, or just a nice meal, Brookfield Place has something for your every fashion need.

49. Take a Cruise to the Hudson River

Location: East River

The Hudson River is one of the most iconic landmarks in NYC. Stretching for over 300 miles, the river runs through the heart of the city and provides stunning views of the skyline. It is a popular destination for boaters, fishermen, and tourists alike. You can take boat tours of the river or simply enjoy the views from one of the many parks along its shores.

50. Roam in Brooklyn Botanical Garden

Location: Brooklyn

Nestled in the heart of Brooklyn, The Brooklyn Botanical Garden is a scenic oasis for its visitors. Founded in 1910, this 52-acre urban paradise is home to over 12,000 different plants and flowers. You can explore the fragrant Rose Garden, stroll through the tranquil Japanese Garden, or smell the roses in the Shakespeare Garden. The peaceful paradise will end your tour on a delightful note.

The Best Landmarks in NY- Takeaway

New York is the business hub for many companies, but it is also filled with numerous tourist attractions. Millions of visitors arrive in the city for recreation and entertainment. You can also capture magnificent views of these attractions. I’ve listed 50 must-see landmarks in NYC as your instant guide. So, when you visit New York City next time, don’t try to miss any of these.

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