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Ten Things You Must See in NYC

You know it from your favorite Woody Allen film or Sex and the City episode. Whether you dream of combing East Village bookshops or sipping martinis in the Meatpacking District, there's something here for you. Skim our highlights and you will fall in love in a New York minute.

  • Manhattan Skyline

    1. Manhattan Skyline

    The iconic view of Manhattan's Skyline! Head to the Top of the Rock or the Waterfront Promenade in Williamsburg to see the Empire State Building as it gleams above city spires like a crown jewel.

  • Empire State Building

    2. Empire State Building

    The view of Manhattan from the observation deck is astounding. Book Empire State Building tickets ahead of time to skip the line.

  • Battery Park

    3. Battery Park

    Battery Park is a cool green space at the tip of Manhattan along the Hudson River. Grab a picnic and catch the sunset while you marvel at the fact that this great big city is an island.

  • Top of the Rock

    4. Top of the Rock

    Rockefeller Center is an Art Deco skyscraper, and the view at the Top of the Rock is like no other. Photo op: catching the skyline here means the Empire State building is included in the view.

  • Statue of Liberty

    5. Statue of Liberty

    An icon of freedom, the Statue of Liberty is a must see. Special exhibits or a climb to the top of the crown (booked in advance!) will make you feel like a part of NYC’s special history.

  • Ellis Island

    6. Ellis Island

    The melting pot that is NYC: more than 12 million immigrants arrived here in search of the American Dream. View original manifests and get inspired by the history of Ellis Island.

  • Central Park

    7. Central Park

    That sprawling green oasis in the middle, separating east from west. In the world-famous Central park you’ll find zoos, strawberry fields, bike paths, a great lawn, and much more.

  • Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

    8. Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

    In this unparalleled museum of modern art, you get to see some of the greats up close and personal. Van Gogh, Picasso, Pollock, Warhol... the list goes on.

  • New York Harbor

    9. New York Harbor

    One of the largest natural harbors in the world, the waterway is another great place from which to enjoy the view. Book a boat tour, sit back, and enjoy Manhattan’s magical lights.

  • Metropolitan Museum of Art

    10. Metropolitan Museum of Art

    Climb the regal front steps into a world of wonder and inspiration. From ancient to modern art, the Met is an art history paradise. The roof offers breathtaking Central Park views.

Planning Your Visit

  • How many days to spend in New York?

    Spend at least five days in order to see New York like a local. Manhattan is the ultimate walking city, densely packed and not very long or wide. You won't have to go very far and you'll find Broadway plays to see, districts and restaurants to explore, drinks to be had, bookstores and botanical gardens to browse. And don’t miss a walk on the Highline or the Brooklyn Bridge!

  • Where to shop?

    From Bergdorf Goodman to local Soho boutiques, there’s something for everyone. Our tip? Be sure to check out the Brooklyn Flea: tons of local designers will give you a unique take-home souvenir.

  • Where to eat?

    Interested in finding the best eats in New York? Here are our favorites. Pizza: Check out Roberta’s, a legendary Brooklyn institution. Classic bagels and lox: Head to Russ & Daughters on the Lower East Side. Authentic diner experience: Empire Diner and Tom’s Restaurant are two of the best. Fun brunch spot: Try Prune in the East Village, or Marlow & Sons or Cafe Colette (both in Williamsburg).

Good to know

  • Language
    English
  • Currency
    USD ($)
  • Time Zone
    UTC (-05:00)
  • Country Code
    +1
  • Best time to visit
    There's truly no best or worst time to visit New York, because this city is alive 24/7/365. That being said, those on a budget should look to plan a trip between January and April, when prices will be (at least a little) cheaper. Also, summer travelers should plan 6 months ahead.

Top Attractions in New York City

Things to Do in New York City

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What people are saying about New York City

Overall rating

4.5 / 5

based on 60,518 reviews

With the New York Explorer pass, we selected the 7 most important sights. Then I started planning the days. I got to know the subway and bus transportation in New York and planned where and how to go. Now I’m nearing the end and enjoying it more and more. I’ve been to the U.S. several times, but I’ve avoided big cities by far so far. However, I was in almost every National Park. I think we will enjoy that too.

New York City Explorer Pass™ Reviewed by Emil, 2/7/2021

I explored the 5th and part of the 4th floor. I spent about 2 hours exploring so I would go back to see more but wish I could reuse my ticket being that the cost was $25. This Museum is huge much bigger than I anticipated. Also I didn't use the Get Your Guide and I feel as though $25 should be lower especially if a Family is involved. I'm quite sure this Museum gets a lot of donations.... from the elite.

New York: Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) Entry Ticket Reviewed by Anonymous, 1/18/2021

A different vibe from MOMA and MET; friendly staff; would like more display on valuable items ; really appreciate that there's a lot of display about China and used a neutral perspective (especially in this tense environment)

Guggenheim Museum Entrance Ticket Reviewed by Chuyan, 1/29/2021

Cesar is the best guide Ever! My experience wouldn't be the same without him. He is very knowledgeable and his energy was spectacular. The quality of his service was fabulous. Please recognized Cesar! HE IS AMAZING!

New York: Ellis Island, Statue of Liberty, and Battery Park Reviewed by Elizabeth, 2/21/2021

Dan was an incredible tour guide and really knew everything about the rich history of the Cathedral. He had an answer to any question and was such a pleasant person.

New York City: Catacombs by Candlelight Reviewed by Jake, 1/24/2021

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