Planning a trip to the Big Apple and wondering, “where should i go in new york?” You’re not alone! New York City is a universe unto itself, packed with iconic landmarks, hidden gems, diverse neighborhoods, and endless experiences. With a history as rich as its cultural tapestry, navigating this vibrant metropolis can feel overwhelming, but it’s an adventure like no other. As a seasoned traveler who has explored NYC for decades, I’m here to guide you beyond the postcards and into the heart of what makes this city truly unforgettable. Let’s discover the must-see sights and unique experiences that answer the ultimate question for any first-timer or returning visitor: where should i go in new york?
New York City’s sheer scale means you can’t see everything in one go, but that’s part of its charm. Every visit offers something new. From world-class museums and historic sites to breathtaking views, vibrant street art, and legendary eateries, your options are limitless. The best places to visit in NYC often blend history, culture, and pure energy, creating moments you’ll cherish long after you leave. Let’s delve into the places that consistently top the list and offer unique insights into the city’s soul.
Iconic Landmarks and Must-See Sights
No trip to New York is complete without visiting its most famous landmarks. These places are essential answers to “where should i go in new york” for any first-time visitor. They stand as symbols of the city’s ambition, history, and enduring spirit.
Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
Standing tall in New York Harbor, the Statue of Liberty is a universal symbol of freedom and democracy, a gift from France to the United States in 1886. For millions of immigrants arriving in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, this iconic figure, designed by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi with internal framework by Gustave Eiffel, was their first glimpse of America. Libertas, the Roman goddess, holds the tabula ansata inscribed with July 4, 1776, the date of the US Declaration of Independence.
Visiting Liberty Island allows you to admire the statue up close and, with advance tickets, climb to the pedestal or even the crown for incredible views. A visit to nearby Ellis Island offers a poignant look into the immigrant experience at the former inspection station that processed 12 million newcomers between 1905 and 1954. Ferries depart from Battery Park in Lower Manhattan, making it a powerful historical and cultural excursion.
Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor
The Empire State Building
A true Art Deco masterpiece and former tallest building in the world, the Empire State Building is more than just a skyscraper; it’s a New York icon. Completed in 1931, it’s recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World and has starred in countless films, from King Kong to Sleepless in Seattle.
Visiting the Empire State Building offers not only stunning panoramic views from its 86th and 102nd-floor observation decks but also a journey through its storied past. It’s a classic answer to where should i go in new york for a timeless perspective of the city.
Midtown Manhattan skyline viewed from the Empire State Building in 2021
Times Square
The electrifying heart of Midtown, Times Square is a sensory overload of dazzling billboards, street performers, and bustling crowds. Located where Broadway meets Seventh Avenue, it’s one of the most visited spots globally, famous for its New Year’s Eve ball drop.
While often crowded and overwhelming, experiencing Times Square day and night offers two different perspectives of its energy. It’s a vibrant, albeit intense, part of the answer to where should i go in new york if you want to feel the pulse of the city’s commercial and entertainment core.
Vibrant Times Square with large digital billboards at night
St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Located directly across from Rockefeller Center on Fifth Avenue, St. Patrick’s Cathedral is a stunning example of Neo-Gothic architecture and a significant Catholic landmark. Construction began in 1858, with completion in 1878, and it’s now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Whether you view its impressive exterior, take a guided tour, attend mass, or explore the unique catacombs by candlelight, the cathedral offers a serene and beautiful contrast to the surrounding urban hustle, making it a peaceful spot when considering where should i go in new york.
Neo-Gothic facade of St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Midtown Manhattan
World-Class Museums and Cultural Hubs
New York boasts an unparalleled collection of museums covering art, history, science, and more. For anyone deciding where should i go in new york based on cultural interests, these institutions are essential stops.
Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met)
Situated on the Upper East Side along “Museum Mile,” The Met is the largest art museum in the United States, spanning 13 acres of exhibition space. Its permanent collection features over 2 million works, ranging from ancient Egyptian artifacts to European masters, African art, and modern pieces.
Spending time at The Met is a deep dive into global art history. It’s impossible to see it all in one visit, but selecting wings that interest you offers a profoundly enriching experience.
Exterior view of the Metropolitan Museum of Art on Fifth Avenue
The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
Located in Midtown, MoMA houses one of the world’s foremost collections of modern and contemporary art, from the late 18th century to the present. Here you can stand before masterpieces like Van Gogh’s The Starry Night, Dali’s The Persistence of Memory, and works by Picasso, Monet, and Matisse.
MoMA is a vibrant space that showcases innovation and creativity. It’s a prime destination for art lovers asking where should i go in new york for modern masterpieces.
The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
Housed in Frank Lloyd Wright’s iconic spiral building on the Upper East Side, the Guggenheim is as much a work of art as the collection it holds. Focusing on Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, early Modern, and contemporary art, the building’s unique ramp design allows visitors to view art as they ascend or descend.
The building itself is a New York City Landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage site. A visit is a fusion of architectural marvel and artistic appreciation.
Interior spiral ramp of the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
9/11 Memorial Plaza and the 9/11 Museum
Located in Lower Manhattan where the World Trade Center Twin Towers once stood, the 9/11 Memorial Plaza is a solemn 8-acre park featuring twin reflecting pools set within the towers’ original footprints. Surrounding the pools is a grove of trees, offering a space for reflection.
Adjacent to the plaza, the 9/11 Memorial Museum provides a moving and comprehensive historical account of the events of September 11, 2001, through artifacts, exhibits, and personal stories. It’s a deeply important and emotional place to visit to understand a pivotal moment in the city’s and nation’s history.
Reflecting pools at the 9/11 Memorial Plaza with the Oculus building in the background
9/11 Museum Workshop
Located in Chelsea, this smaller, yet incredibly impactful museum offers a unique perspective on the aftermath of 9/11. It documents the recovery efforts at Ground Zero through artifacts and powerful photographs taken by Gary Marlon Suson, the official photographer at the site.
Visiting this one-room museum with an audio guide narrated by Suson is a deeply personal and moving experience, offering a different layer of understanding about the events and their impact. It’s a valuable addition for those seeking a deeper historical connection when asking where should i go in new york.
Interior of the 9/11 Museum Workshop displaying artifacts
The American Museum of Natural History
On the Upper West Side, across from Central Park, this vast museum is the largest natural history museum in the world. Its 44 permanent exhibition halls are home to diverse collections including dinosaur fossils, animal dioramas, meteorites, and cultural artifacts.
Popularized by books and films like Night at the Museum, it’s a fantastic place for all ages, especially families. It offers hours of exploration into the natural world and human history, making it a prime answer to where should i go in new york for an educational and engaging experience.
Interior view of the American Museum of Natural History with a dinosaur exhibit
Exploring Vibrant Neighborhoods
New York is a city of neighborhoods, each with its distinct personality, history, and flavor. Wandering through them is one of the most authentic ways to experience the city and is key to answering where should i go in new york for a taste of local life.
Greenwich Village
Known for its history as a hub of counterculture movements, Greenwich Village (or “the Village”) has a bohemian past that shaped modern American culture, from the folk music revival to the LGBT rights movement. While gentrification has changed its landscape, it retains charm with tree-lined streets, historic brownstones, and Washington Square Park.
Stroll through Washington Square Park, browse shops on Bleeker Street, look for famous TV show filming locations, and soak in the relaxed, artistic atmosphere. Taking a walking tour can unlock stories of its famous former residents and historical events.
Washington Square Park with the Arch and Empire State Building in the background
SoHo
South of Houston Street, SoHo is famous for its striking cast-iron architecture, art galleries, and trendy boutiques. Originally an industrial area, its large, well-lit loft spaces attracted artists in the 1970s, leading to its transformation into a chic neighborhood known for high-end shopping and artistic flair.
Exploring SoHo’s streets offers a blend of architectural appreciation and retail therapy. It’s a stylish answer to where should i go in new york for those interested in art, fashion, and beautiful streetscapes.
Street scene in SoHo showcasing cast-iron buildings
Little Italy
While much smaller than its historical peak, Little Italy on Mulberry Street still offers a glimpse into the neighborhood’s Italian immigrant past. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it’s primarily a tourist destination today but retains old-world charm with red-sauce restaurants and pastry shops.
A quick stroll provides a sense of its history and cultural significance. It’s a nostalgic stop, especially for fans of films like The Godfather and Mean Streets which were set or filmed here.
Mulberry Street in Little Italy with festive decorations
Chinatown
Adjacent to Little Italy, Chinatown is home to one of the largest Chinese populations outside of Asia. It’s a bustling, vibrant neighborhood filled with markets, dim sum parlors, tea shops, and unique stores.
Exploring Chinatown is a sensory experience – the sights, sounds, and smells transport you to a different culture. Sampling authentic cuisine here is a must. It’s a fantastic place for cultural immersion and delicious food. Find out more about great food in new york and specifically good food in nyc in these areas.
Williamsburg, Brooklyn
Williamsburg has transformed over the past few decades from an industrial area into a trendy hub of artists, musicians, and young professionals. Located across the East River from Manhattan, it’s known for its vibrant street art, live music venues, independent boutiques, and diverse culinary scene.
Wandering through Williamsburg offers a taste of Brooklyn’s dynamic culture. Explore Bedford Avenue for shops and restaurants, enjoy the street art, and check out the stunning waterfront views of the Manhattan skyline. If you’re debating where to go in brooklyn, Williamsburg is a top contender.
Street art mural in Williamsburg, Brooklyn
Breathtaking Views and Unique Perspectives
New York City’s skyline is world-famous, and getting a bird’s-eye view is a highlight for many visitors. These spots are perfect answers to where should i go in new york for stunning panoramas.
Top of the Rock
Located in Rockefeller Center, the Top of the Rock observation deck offers arguably the best panoramic views in Manhattan. Unlike the Empire State Building, Top of the Rock provides unobstructed views of the Empire State Building, as well as spectacular vistas of Central Park to the north.
With both indoor and outdoor viewing areas, it’s a fantastic place for photos and soaking in the sheer scale of the city. It’s a top recommendation for stunning skyline views.
View of Central Park and Midtown Manhattan from Top of the Rock
One World Observatory
Perched atop the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, One World Trade Center, One World Observatory offers state-of-the-art views from Lower Manhattan. The experience includes high-tech elevators that showcase the city’s history as you ascend and digital guides that enhance your understanding of the views.
From the observatory, you can see the Statue of Liberty, New York Harbor, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, and New Jersey, along with incredible perspectives of Manhattan.
Panoramic view from One World Observatory showing Lower Manhattan, the harbor, and bridges
The Edge
One of Manhattan’s newest observation decks, The Edge is an outdoor platform jutting out from the 100th floor of 30 Hudson Yards. Its unique design offers thrilling views over the Hudson River and the west side of Manhattan, including a glass floor section for a dizzying downward look.
With its modern design and daring perspective, The Edge is a great choice for those looking for a unique and exhilarating viewpoint.
Visitors standing on the outdoor platform of The Edge observation deck
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
Opening recently atop One Vanderbilt near Grand Central Terminal, SUMMIT is less of a traditional observation deck and more of an immersive, multi-sensory art experience with stunning views. Spread across three floors, it features mirrored rooms, art installations, and transparent boxes extending out from the building.
SUMMIT offers unparalleled views of the Empire State Building and Midtown from within a unique and artistic environment. It’s a dazzling experience for those seeking something different.
Visitors inside the mirrored “Affinity” room at SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
Brooklyn Bridge & Brooklyn Bridge Park
Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge offers one of the most iconic experiences and views in NYC. Completed in 1883, this historic suspension bridge connects Manhattan and Brooklyn and provides fantastic views of the Manhattan skyline and New York Harbor. A dedicated pedestrian path makes it a popular stroll.
On the Brooklyn side, Brooklyn Bridge Park offers grassy lawns, piers, and paths right along the waterfront, providing postcard-perfect views of the bridge and Lower Manhattan. The nearby Dumbo (“down under the Manhattan Bridge overpass”) area offers that classic view of the Manhattan Bridge framed by buildings. For stunning, free skyline views, these are essential stops when considering where should i go in new york.
Walking path on the Brooklyn Bridge with Manhattan skyline in the background
View of the Manhattan skyline and Brooklyn Bridge from Pebble Beach in Brooklyn Bridge Park
View of the Manhattan Bridge framed by buildings in Dumbo, Brooklyn
Staten Island Ferry
Taking a free ride on the Staten Island Ferry is one of the best budget-friendly ways to see major New York landmarks. The ferry travels across New York Harbor between Battery Park and Staten Island, offering fantastic views of the Statue of Liberty and the Lower Manhattan skyline.
It’s a simple round-trip journey that takes about an hour, providing great photo opportunities without the cost of a dedicated harbor cruise. It’s a must-do for free views.
The Staten Island Ferry crossing New York Harbor with the Manhattan skyline in the background
Parks, Green Spaces, and Outdoor Activities
Amidst the concrete jungle, New York City offers expansive parks and unique elevated pathways that provide respite and recreation. When thinking where should i go in new york for a break from the city buzz, these places are perfect.
Central Park
Manhattan’s sprawling green heart, Central Park, is one of the most visited urban parks globally and a constant presence in film and TV. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, it’s a beautifully landscaped oasis.
Walk its paths, rent bikes, relax on the Great Lawn, visit the Strawberry Fields memorial for John Lennon, see the Bethesda Terrace, or explore attractions like the Central Park Zoo and Carousel. It’s a massive playground and a serene escape all in one.
The Mall in Central Park lined with trees and walking paths
The High Line
Built on a historic elevated freight rail line on Manhattan’s west side, the High Line is a unique public park offering an elevated walkway with art installations, gardens, and city views. It runs from Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking District up through Chelsea to Hudson Yards.
It’s a fantastic way to see the city from a different perspective, enjoying greenery and art along the way. It’s free to visit and easily combined with exploring Chelsea Market or Hudson Yards.
Walkway along the High Line elevated park with city buildings
Battery Park (The Battery)
Located at the southern tip of Manhattan, The Battery is a waterfront park offering gardens, paths, and historical monuments. It’s also the departure point for ferries to the Statue of Liberty and Staten Island.
It’s a pleasant place for a walk with harbor views and serves as a convenient gateway to island excursions.
Bryant Park
A lively 10-acre park in Midtown Manhattan, adjacent to the New York Public Library. Bryant Park is a popular spot for office workers at lunchtime and hosts numerous free events throughout the year, including outdoor movies in the summer and the Winter Village with holiday shops and an ice rink.
It’s a convenient and active green space in the heart of the city.
View of Bryant Park in Midtown Manhattan with surrounding buildings
Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Located in Brooklyn near Prospect Park, this 52-acre garden offers a beautiful escape with various specialty gardens, including a Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden, a Rose Garden, and a Cherry Esplanade (stunning in spring).
It’s a serene place to connect with nature and enjoy seasonal blooms.
View of the Brooklyn Botanic Garden with a pond and lush greenery
Culinary Adventures and Food Experiences
New York City is a global food capital. Exploring its diverse culinary landscape is an adventure in itself and a crucial part of deciding where should i go in new york.
Chelsea Market
Located in Chelsea, Chelsea Market is a bustling indoor food hall and marketplace housed in a former National Biscuit Company factory (where Oreos were invented!). It’s filled with diverse food vendors selling everything from tacos and seafood to pasta, baked goods, and international delicacies.
It’s a perfect place to sample a variety of cuisines under one roof. Don’t miss Los Tacos No. 1 or The Lobster Place for fresh seafood. Learn about top food places in new york and where to eat in new york for more ideas.
Fresh tacos from Los Tacos No. 1 stall in Chelsea Market
Take a Food Tour
One of the best ways to understand New York’s culture and history is through its food. Walking food tours in neighborhoods like Greenwich Village, the Lower East Side, or Hell’s Kitchen allow you to sample local specialties while learning about the area’s heritage and immigrant influences.
From pizza to dim sum, bagels to cheesecake, a food tour offers guided insights and delicious bites.
Unique Experiences and Entertainment
Beyond sightseeing, New York offers countless unique activities and entertainment options. When pondering where should i go in new york for fun and memorable moments, consider these.
See a Show on Broadway
Experiencing a Broadway show is a quintessential New York City activity. The theaters around Times Square host world-renowned productions, from classic musicals to cutting-edge plays.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended, but catching a show is an unforgettable part of the NYC experience.
Radio City Music Hall
Part of Rockefeller Center, Radio City Music Hall is a historic entertainment venue famous for hosting the Rockettes’ Christmas Spectacular and major awards shows. Its stunning Art Deco interior is worth seeing, even if you don’t attend a performance.
Check the schedule for concerts or take a tour to appreciate its architectural grandeur.
Radio City Music Hall’s iconic marquee.
Ride, Race, or Cruise
For those interested in active experiences or unique perspectives, consider participating in a run (like the NYC Marathon!), joining the Five Boro Bike Tour (40 miles on car-free streets), or even competing in the NYC Triathlon.
Alternatively, enjoy the water on a cruise around New York Harbor or the Hudson River. Options range from sightseeing tours to dinner cruises, offering views of the skyline and landmarks from the water.
ARTECHOUSE NYC
Located beneath Chelsea Market, ARTECHOUSE is an innovative digital art space offering immersive, large-scale installations that combine light, sound, and technology. The exhibitions change periodically, providing unique, interactive experiences.
It’s a modern, sensory adventure unlike traditional museums, perfect for something different.
Immersive digital art installation at ARTECHOUSE NYC
City Climb
For thrill-seekers asking where should i go in new york for an adrenaline rush, City Climb at Edge NYC is the answer. This experience allows you to scale the outside of the skyscraper to The Apex, the highest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere, while safely harnessed.
It offers unparalleled views and an unforgettable challenge high above the city.
Climbers on the City Climb experience on the exterior of a skyscraper
Visit Coney Island
Located in Brooklyn, Coney Island is a classic seaside destination home to Luna Park amusement park and Coney Island Beach. Ride historic roller coasters like the Cyclone, enjoy carnival games, eat hot dogs, and relax by the beach.
It’s a fun, nostalgic escape, especially great if you’re visiting with kids.
Amusement park rides and beach at Coney Island
Planning Your Visit: Where Should I Go?
Deciding where should i go in new york depends on your interests, time, and budget. For a first-timer, a mix of iconic landmarks (Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, Times Square, Central Park), a world-class museum (Met or MoMA), a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, and exploring a vibrant neighborhood (like Greenwich Village or SoHo) provides a fantastic introduction.
If you’re returning or have more time, delve deeper into specific interests – explore more museums, take a dedicated food tour in new york, catch a specific show, discover a new neighborhood, or seek out thrilling views from newer spots like The Edge or SUMMIT.
New York’s energy is infectious, and its layers of culture, history, and experiences mean there’s always something new to discover. Use this guide as a starting point, and let your curiosity lead you to the places that speak to you. The best way to answer “where should i go in new york” is to simply start exploring!
Our Recommendations: Where Should I Go in New York?
Based on years of visiting, here are a few curated lists to help you prioritize:
Top 10 Must-Go Places for a First Visit:
- Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
- Central Park
- Empire State Building
- Times Square
- Brooklyn Bridge
- Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) or MoMA
- 9/11 Memorial & Museum
- Walk along Fifth Avenue (especially Midtown)
- Explore a neighborhood (Greenwich Village, SoHo, Chelsea)
- Experience a newer observation deck (SUMMIT or Edge)
10 Best Free Places to Go in New York:
- Staten Island Ferry
- Central Park
- Times Square
- Brooklyn Bridge
- 9/11 Memorial Plaza
- Explore neighborhoods (SoHo, Chinatown, Greenwich Village, Chelsea, Lower East Side, Midtown)
- The High Line
- Brooklyn Bridge Park
- Grand Central Terminal (Main Concourse)
- Rockefeller Center (exterior and concourse)
10 Best Places to Go with Kids:
- Central Park (especially playgrounds, zoo, carousel)
- American Museum of Natural History
- Empire State Building
- Statue of Liberty & Ferry
- Brooklyn Bridge (walk or bike)
- Times Square (briefly!)
- The Bronx Zoo
- Luna Park at Coney Island
- Brooklyn Bridge Park
- Catch a baseball game (Yankees or Mets)
Whatever your interests, New York City has something incredible waiting for you. Plan your trip, pack your walking shoes, and get ready to discover why so many fall in love with this extraordinary city.