A Guide to Places to See in New York
New York; a place of dreams and ambitions, as well as some of the most iconic landmarks in the world. These are just some of our favorite things to do in the city that never sleeps.
Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour
To really familiarise yourself with the city and discover all the best places to see in New York, a Hop on Hop off Bus Tour is the way to go. The Big Bus Tour company has over 25 stops across the city as well as at the most famous museums and landmarks and the great thing, you can create your own sightseeing itinerary and jump on and off when you want. Take advantage of a free one-day ticket with The New York Pass.
Empire State Building
Probably one of the most iconic buildings in New York, and a definite must-see in New York, the Empire State Building towers over Midtown Manhattan at 102-stories. This famous art deco skyscraper commands some of the best views in the city and visitors can rise to the Top Deck (102 floors up!) to watch the sunset or enjoy the equally stunning 360 views from the 86th floor Main Deck. Tip: go for sunset when you can watch the city light up in all its glory.
9/11 Memorial & Museum
Pay tribute to the victims of the 2001 attacks at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum in Downtown Manhattan. Located on the site of the original World Trade Centre, visitors can step back into the past and learn of the ill-fated day nearly two decades ago with over 10,000 artifacts on display. 2,000 harrowing interviews and first-hand accounts, photographs, and testimonies also make up this harrowing but humbling experience. Entry included in The New York Pass.
American Museum of Natural History
A great one for the kids, the American Museum of Natural History is not only one of the largest museums in the world but is home to fascinating pre-historic skeletons, ancient fossils, and giant meteorites. For anyone – old or young – with a curious mind, this museum will have you hooked from the minute you step through the door. Top exhibits: its 94-foot blue whale and a 122-foot long dinosaur skeleton. Those alone make it one of the top places to see in New York.
Food on Foot Tours
New York and food: two of the best things paired together. Head off the beaten path and venture into some of East Village’s most iconic eateries, or into Midtown for true New York staples. New York is famous for its diverse culinary culture so what better way to taste your way around the city than a Food on Foot Tour.
Inside Broadway Walking Tour
You can’t go to New York and not experience Broadway. An institution in its own right, this time you can go behind the scenes to experience what life is like on stage and learn from the stars about how to become a Broadway actor and make it big. This two-hour guided tour will take you around the Theatre District and let you in on some insider secrets, so for any budding actor or theatre enthusiast, this one is a must-see in New York.
Brooklyn Bridge
Connecting Brooklyn and Manhattan, Brooklyn Bridge is perhaps one of the most photographed landmarks in the city. Jump on a bike, or if you’re on foot you can join a tour or go at your own pace. Tip: it’s one of the best spots to see the iconic skyline of skyscrapers in Downtown Manhattan.
Central Park Sightseeing Walking Tour
A leafy sanctuary just off Fifth Avenue, set between the Upper West and Upper East Sides, Central Park is the most popular green space in Manhattan. If you’re looking to tick off what to see in New York, put Central Park on your list. If you’re visiting in summer bring a picnic and if it’s too cold get lost amid the paths through enchanting woodlands and lakes. Tip: there’s a section of the park, Strawberry Fields, dedicated to John Lennon.
Grand Central Station
The true hub of New York, Grand Central Station isn’t just a bustling commuter causeway – it’s an architectural delight in its own right and has been accredited status as a US National Historic Landmark. Thousands of people pass through Grand Central Station daily so the people watching is second to none, but don’t forget to look up at the ceiling mural or admire the original Tiffany clock – the largest of its kind in the world measuring in at 48-feet! Explore this Manhattan landmark at your own pace with an audio-tour.
Ellis Island
Operating as the immigrant check-in for Europeans coming to America, Ellis Island is one of the most historically important sites in the country. The Immigration Museum is a must-see in New York and showcases the history of over 12 million immigrants who entered the United States. Almost half of all American people descended from those who crossed through the golden door of Ellis Island so perhaps you’ll be able to trace some family roots there yourself.