Things to do in  New York City

Designed by Frédéric Auguste Barthold and Gustave Eiffel, the Statue of Liberty was a gift from France to commemorate the Declaration of Independence’s 100th anniversary. Today, this 305-foot (93-meter) statue, a USA icon, guards the entrance to New York Harbor on Liberty Island. Lady Liberty and the land surrounding her were declared the Statue of Liberty National Monument in 1924.

The Empire State Building has long been one of New York City’s best-known attractions. Ranked among the world’s tallest buildings—One World Trade Center is today the tallest in Manhattan—the landmark is instantly recognizable for its stepped, art deco pinnacle, which is floodlit at night and displays holiday and commemorative colors throughout the year.

As the gateway for some 12 million arrivals to the United States, New York City’s Ellis Island was America’s busiest immigrant-inspection station for more than 60 years. Today, the island’s restored main building houses the Ellis Island Immigration Museum, which honors the US’s immigrant heritage, chronicles the island’s role in that history, and gives voice to the people themselves.

The heart and soul of Manhattan, Central Park spans 843 acres (341 hectares) of green space. Across that great expanse, it offers attractions and amenities ranging from running paths, a boating lake, and the Central Park Zoo to gardens, fountains, and the Wollman Rink. For more than 160 years, locals and visitors alike have gathered year-round at this National Historic Landmark to enjoy a respite from New York City’s concrete jungle.

The National September 11 Memorial & Museum in New York City stands as a place of remembrance and a somber tribute to those killed in the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The plaza, built on the World Trade Center site, features two reflecting pools, while the subterranean museum lends a deeper understanding of the impact of that day.

Both an architectural marvel and one of New York’s most recognizable landmarks, the Flatiron Building has been turning heads since its debut in 1902. Named for its uncommonly triangular shape, the building was designed by architect Daniel Burnham and is a US National Historic Landmark. With 22 floors, it’s never been NYC’s tallest building, but it’s certainly one of its most iconic.

One of New York City’s most storied buildings, the Dakota stands quietly across from Central Park with its Gothic gables and ornate stonework. Visitors come to admire the architecture and reflect on its place in pop culture history—especially as the former home of John Lennon. Offering a glimpse into old New York elegance, it’s a must-see stop on many Upper West Side walking tours.

Few New York City landmarks turn heads like the Brooklyn Bridge, an 1883 beauty spanning the East River between Lower Manhattan and DUMBO. While architecture buffs can marvel at the neo-Gothic stone arches and 19th-century engineering, most travelers will simply see an essential piece of the New York City skyline—and head straight for the walking promenade to take a whole lot of photos.

Located in the Flatiron District, Madison Square Park is a bustling, leafy square packed with benches, playground equipment, and open space to soak up the sun. Visitors come here to enjoy public art, use the Wi-Fi, relax over a picnic, or wait in line at Shake Shack. The park offers easy access to landmarks such as the Flatiron Building, but most people plan a visit here to enjoy the green space and people-watch.

The focal point of Bethesda Terrace, this landmark fountain—one of the largest water features in New York City—is known for its bronze statue of a winged angel, which has been a Central Park landmark for around 150 years and has appeared in countless movies and television shows. Admire the fountain from the upper level of the terrace above the Arcade, or relax next to its grand lower basin fountain and people watch.

Radiating art deco glory, Rockefeller Center in Midtown Manhattan is where you’ll find Radio City Music Hall, NBC Studios, the Top of the Rock observation deck, and, in winter, New York City’s famous ice rink and Christmas tree. Opened by John D. Rockefeller Jr. in the Great Depression, it’s a classic NYC stop for its history as a cultural center and architectural icon.

With its chaotic crowds, neon lights, and video billboards, Times Square is one of New York City’s best-known landmarks. It’s near many of the Big Apple’s famous theaters and hosts the annual New Year’s Eve ball drop—an essential Manhattan experience. Whether you thrive in crowds or would rather avoid them, you should experience the NYC area at least once.

Greenwich Village is a popular downtown Manhattan neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, historic brownstones, and charming feel. Formerly a hub of 1960s counterculture, the Village is home to arts organizations such as the Whitney Museum of American Art and Film Forum, LGBTQ+ landmarks such as the Stonewall Inn, and New York University. Today, it additionally boasts a range of upscale shops, destination restaurants, and lively bars.

Occupying an entire city block, New York City St. Patrick’s Cathedral is a neo-Gothic masterpiece in the heart of Manhattan’s midtown neighborhood. The cathedral’s soaring 330-foot (100-meter) spires stand out among the steel and glass skyscrapers of Midtown, and each year it beckons more than five million visitors inside with its arches, altars, a colossal organ, and intricate stained-glass windows.

Admire New York City from on high at the One World Observatory, the 100th-floor viewing deck reachable in just 47 seconds by high-speed elevator. On the ride up, time-lapse technology showcases the city’s transformation from the 1500s to the present day via immersive, floor-to-ceiling screens. At the top, enjoy panoramic views of the city’s waterways, iconic skyline, and renowned landmarks.