New York City has no shortage of iconic attractions, and there’s a reason millions of people come to see them each year. I’ve lived here long enough to appreciate both the quiet corners and famous landmarks — and sometimes it’s fun to lean into the classics!
From the Statue of Liberty to Times Square, Central Park to the Empire State Building, these are the places that define the city and give first-time visitors that unmistakable “I’m in New York” feeling. In this guide, I’m sharing the most visited attractions in NYC, along with tips for making the most of your visit.
Most Visited Places in New York City
Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (10 Best Neighborhoods +3 to Avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s my favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
#25. Fifth Avenue
Fifth Avenue is one of the most famous streets in New York, and walking it always feels like you’re in a movie. I usually start around 59th Street, near Central Park, and head downtown toward the New York Public Library. Along the way, you pass major shopping landmarks like Saks, Bergdorf Goodman, and the Apple Store, plus iconic spots like St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Rockefeller Center.
Even if you’re not shopping, the energy is electric. The windows are always done up, the sidewalks are packed, and the whole stretch feels polished and full of movement. I like ducking into stores just to look around, especially during the holidays when everything is decorated.
Fifth Avenue is easily one of the most visited attractions in NYC, and it’s a great way to combine sightseeing, history, and a little window shopping. If you’re building a walking route through Midtown, this avenue connects a lot of the city’s most photographed landmarks.
Address: Fifth Avenue, between 42nd and 59th Streets
#24. Flatiron Building
The Flatiron Building is one of New York City’s most iconic landmarks, and even though it’s currently under renovation, it still draws crowds every day. The shape is instantly recognizable, and I’ve never walked past it without seeing someone snapping a photo. It’s located at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and Broadway, right near Madison Square Park, making it an easy stop on any sightseeing route.
I usually grab a coffee from one of the nearby cafés and take a stroll around the park to admire the view. The neighborhood is full of good food, interesting architecture, and people watching. Even if you’re not going inside, the Flatiron is one of those classic NYC photo ops that belongs on every list of the most popular attractions in New York City. It’s a quick stop, but a memorable one — especially if you time it with golden hour. You can feel the history and style of the city in the way it cuts the skyline, and it’s still one of my favorite landmarks to revisit.
Address: 175 5th Ave, New York, NY 10010
#23. Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
The Museum of Modern Art is one of the most famous museums in NYC, and it completely lives up to the hype. I still remember the first time I stood in front of Van Gogh’s Starry Night — it’s one of those moments you don’t forget. MoMA is packed with modern and contemporary art from icons like Warhol, Picasso, and Rothko, but there’s also a rotating collection of newer voices and multimedia installations that keep things fresh.
The layout is clean and easy to navigate, with enough variety to keep teens, art lovers, and first-time visitors all engaged. I like starting on the top floor and working my way down, stopping at the sculpture garden for a break.
If you’re putting together an itinerary of the most popular tourist attractions in New York City, MoMA deserves a spot near the top. It’s inspiring, thought-provoking, and its location in Midtown makes it an easy stop between other major landmarks.
Must see at MoMA: Starry Night by Vincent van Gogh, Andy Warhol’s Campbell Soup Cans, Frida Kahlo’s Self-Portrait with Cropped Hair, Monet’s Water Lilies, The Persistence of Memory by Dali, and Picasso’s work.
Address: 11 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019
#22. The Lincoln Center
Lincoln Center is one of the most iconic cultural landmarks in NYC, and it always feels like an event just to be there. I’ve come here for ballet, opera, live concerts, and outdoor screenings. The architecture alone is worth seeing, especially at night when the plaza is glowing and the fountain is lit. It’s easy to see why this is one of the most photographed and visited spots on the Upper West Side.
Even if you’re not catching a performance, Lincoln Center is still worth the stop. You can take a guided tour, explore the nearby public art, or just sit by the fountain and soak in the atmosphere. It’s close to Central Park and Columbus Circle, so it fits easily into any day spent uptown. For travelers looking to experience the best cultural attractions in New York City, Lincoln Center stands out as a top destination.
Address: Lincoln Center Plaza, New York, NY 10023
#21. The Time Out Market
Time Out Market in DUMBO has quickly become one of the most visited food halls in NYC. It brings together some of the city’s best chefs, snacks, and sweet treats all under one roof — with rooftop views of the Manhattan Bridge that are hard to beat. I like coming here for a casual meal with friends when no one can agree on what to eat. You can grab sushi, pasta, burgers, or tacos, all from different vendors in the same space.
The upstairs seating area is a little quieter and has some of the best skyline views in Brooklyn. I usually grab something to eat downstairs, take it up to the rooftop, and make a full afternoon out of it. It’s one of the most popular things to do in DUMBO for first-time visitors, but it still feels fun and local. If you’re looking for a food-focused tourist attraction in NYC that’s easy, scenic, and delicious, Time Out Market is an ideal stop.
Address: 55 Water St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
#20. American Museum of Natural History
The American Museum of Natural History is one of the most popular tourist attractions in NYC, and it still manages to impress every time I visit. Located right across from Central Park, this museum is massive — I’ve been several times and still haven’t seen it all.
The dinosaur fossils alone are worth the trip, and the dioramas and planetarium shows always grab your attention, no matter your age. The museum works well for families, solo visitors, or anyone looking to see a true NYC institution!
If interested, I wrote an article outlining the best things to see at the American Museum of Natural History.
Address: 200 Central Park West, New York, NY 10024
#19. The High Line
The High Line is one of my favorite ways to see the city from a different perspective. This elevated park was built on a former train track, and now it winds through the west side of Manhattan with flowers, art, and skyline views the whole way. It’s become one of the top free attractions in NYC and a must-see for anyone visiting the city for the first time.
I usually enter near Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking District and walk north toward Hudson Yards. It’s a great way to stretch your legs and take in the architecture, river views, and people-watching along the path. There are spots to sit, snack, or just slow down. Teens, kids, and adults all seem to love it. You can do the full route or just part of it, depending on your schedule.
#18. Little Island
Little Island is part floating garden, part performance space, and completely unique. Built on tulip-shaped concrete pillars over the Hudson River, it’s a green escape in the middle of the city with some of the best views on the west side. I love walking the winding paths, stopping at the viewpoints, and finding a quiet spot to relax.
It’s located near the Meatpacking District and Hudson River Park, so it’s easy to combine with a walk along the water or a visit to the Whitney Museum. I usually go in the late afternoon and stay through sunset — the light over the river is beautiful, and there’s often live music or events in the amphitheater! Little Island is still fairly new, but it’s already become a popular outdoor attraction in NYC (for good reason!).
Address: Pier 55 in Hudson River Park
#17. Broadway Theater District
Most folks visiting New York City for the first time know to budget a Broadway Show (and you should too!). The experience completely lives up to the hype, you’ll feel the excitement long before entering the theater. The area itself is crowded, especially at night, but that comes with the territory.
I usually grab drinks nearby (La Grande Boucherie is my favorite spot), then head to the show with plenty of time to spare. If you’re looking for classic New York attractions, Broadway is one of the best places to start. It’s one of the most visited cultural destinations in NYC and one that leaves a lasting impression. No matter how many times you go, the feeling when the curtain rises never gets old.
#16. The Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET)
The Met is one of the most impressive museums in the world, and it’s no surprise that it’s also one of the most visited attractions in New York City. I’ve spent entire afternoons getting lost in its galleries and still haven’t come close to seeing it all. From ancient Egyptian temples to European paintings and fashion exhibits, there’s something here for everyone — and it’s all beautifully curated.
I like entering through the grand Fifth Avenue steps (yes, those steps) and heading to a specific section I’ve been wanting to revisit. There’s no wrong way to do The Met. You can spend an hour or three, take a break at the rooftop café, or just admire the architecture.
If you’re planning your first trip to New York or trying to hit the city’s top cultural attractions, The Met should absolutely be on your list!
Address: 1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028
#15. The Chrysler Building
The Chrysler Building is easily one of the most beautiful skyscrapers in New York. It may not have an observation deck, but it remains one of the most admired architectural landmarks in NYC. I love walking up Lexington Avenue and seeing the spire peek out between buildings — it always stops me for a second. The Art Deco detailing, the steel crown, the gargoyles — it’s all timeless and so distinctly New York.
While you can’t go to the top like other observation decks in the city, you can enter the lobby during business hours and admire the elegant interior. I like pairing a quick Chrysler Building visit with a walk to Grand Central, which is just a few blocks away.
It’s a great stop for photography lovers, architecture buffs, or anyone trying to see the most iconic landmarks in New York City. The Chrysler Building is one of the best-known skyscrapers in the world, and standing beneath it, you understand why. Even surrounded by taller, flashier buildings, it still holds its own.
Address: 405 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10174
#14. Washington Square Park
Washington Square Park is an iconic NYC park is known for its marble arch, live music, and never-ending parade of street performers, NYU students, locals, and tourists. There’s always something happening — a chess game, a saxophonist, someone walking a parrot or wheeling in a grand piano (yep and yep).
I usually grab a coffee from a nearby café and sit by the fountain. It’s the kind of place where you can stay for ten minutes or lose track of time entirely. The people-watching is some of the best in the city. If you’re exploring downtown, this park is a must-see attraction and one of the most visited public squares in NYC.
Quick history lesson: During the late 18th century, this area was a burial ground for indigent victims of illness and disease. As the property slowly morphed into Washington Park, it became the epicenter of many movements and protests. As such, Washington Square Park is one of the more important historic park in New York City.
#13. Rockefeller Center & Top of the Rock
Rockefeller Center is one of those places that captures everything iconic about Midtown Manhattan, but Top of the Rock is the real highlight for me. The observation deck offers panoramic views that include the Empire State Building, which you can’t see from the Empire State itself.
I like going just before sunset so you get daylight and city lights all in one visit. It’s one of the most visited attractions in NYC, and the views truly deliver. The timed-entry tickets keep things moving, and the space never feels too crowded. If you’re looking for a big-sky moment in the middle of the city, this is where to get it.
Address: 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10111
#12. St. Patrick’s Cathedral
St. Patrick’s Cathedral is the most visited religious landmark in NYC. Located right on Fifth Avenue, across from Rockefeller Center, it’s hard to miss — and impossible to forget once you step inside. The Gothic architecture, stained glass windows, and sheer scale of the space is awe-inspiring.
I like visiting on weekday mornings when it’s a bit quieter, but even during busy hours, the atmosphere remains peaceful. You can walk through, sit for a moment, light a candle, or just admire the details. It’s open to the public and free to enter, which makes it an easy stop to add to your Midtown itinerary.
Whether or not you’re religious, the beauty of the building is undeniable. For travelers exploring the most famous attractions in New York City, St. Patrick’s Cathedral offers a moment of calm and a deep connection to the city’s architectural and spiritual history.
Address: 5th Ave, New York, NY 10022
#11. The New York Public Library
The New York Public Library’s main branch, also known as the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, is my favorite historic landmark in the city. The Rose Main Reading Room with its chandeliers and painted ceiling is absolutely stunning, and it’s free to walk through even if you’re not a library card holder.
Located right next to Bryant Park, this library is a perfect stop if you’re exploring Midtown. I love showing visitors the marble lions out front, the quiet exhibition rooms inside, and the old-school research vibe that still feels very alive. Visiting is a must for book lovers, architecture fans, and anyone exploring Fifth Avenue.
Fun fact: The two lions in front of the library are called Patience and Fortitude, here’s why.
Address: 476 5th Ave, New York, NY 10018
#10. Bryant Park
Bryant Park feels like a true break from the fast pace of Midtown. Tucked behind the New York Public Library, it’s filled with tables, food kiosks, trees, and a big open lawn that’s perfect for a quick break. I’ve spent lazy afternoons here with a book, quick lunches in between meetings, and spontaneous evenings listening to live music under string lights.
It’s not huge, but the vibe is what makes it special. In the summer, there are movie nights and free yoga. In the winter, it transforms into a holiday market and ice rink. The park is surrounded by some of the most visited attractions in NYC — Times Square, Fifth Avenue, Grand Central — but it always feels a little calmer here.
#9. Grand Central Terminal
Grand Central Terminal is one of the most beautiful public spaces in New York City. The ceiling alone, with its turquoise zodiac mural, makes me stop every time I pass through. I’ve brought so many visitors here, and their reaction is always the same: wide-eyed amazement.
I like visiting in the early morning when the light pours through the windows or during off-hours to explore the details — the clock, the chandeliers, the hidden Oyster Bar downstairs. You don’t need to be catching a train to enjoy it.
Grand Central is one of the most popular tourist attractions in NYC, and rightfully so. It’s also surrounded by other landmarks like the Chrysler Building and Bryant Park, so it’s easy to work into a Midtown walking route. For architecture lovers, history buffs, or anyone wanting a dose of old-school New York glamor, Grand Central is unforgettable.
Address: 89 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017
#8. The Brooklyn Bridge
Walking the Brooklyn Bridge is an iconic New York City activity no matter how often you visit. I’ve done it countless times, and it still takes my breath away! The views of downtown Manhattan can’t be beat, the Statue of Liberty in the distance is mere icing on the cake.
I usually start on the Manhattan side near City Hall and end the walk with coffee or pizza in DUMBO. The whole thing takes about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on how often you stop for photos — and trust me, you’ll want to stop.
The bridge is one of the most photographed places in NYC and a must-see attraction for first-time visitors. It’s free, beautiful, and the kind of experience that gives you that real “I’m in New York” feeling. You’re walking above the city, between two boroughs, and somehow it still manages to feel peaceful.
#7. Wall Street
Wall Street is the heart of New York’s Financial District and home to some of the city’s most recognizable landmarks, including the New York Stock Exchange and the Charging Bull statue. I suggest starting at the base of Broadway and wandering past Trinity Church, Federal Hall, and the narrow canyons of stone that line the street.
Decisive and brisk, the vibe is completely different from Midtown or Uptown! Wall Street is one of the most visited places in Lower Manhattan because it’s where so much of American economic history began. If you’re already downtown for the Statue of Liberty, 9/11 Memorial, or One World Observatory, it’s worth adding this quick but memorable stroll to your route.
For a more in-depth guide to Wall Street check out 20 Fun Things to do in the Financial District (You Won’t Soon Forget).
Address: Wall St & Nassau St, New York, NY 10005
#6. One World Trade Center
Home to the tallest indoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere, One World Trade Center stands at 1,776 feet. That’s not a coincidence, it’s the year our country was founded! The building itself is striking from the outside, but the observation deck is where it’s at.
The adventure starts with a high-speed elevator that climbs to the top in under a minute while showing the evolution of the NYC skyline. Once you reach the top, you’re looking down at the Brooklyn Bridge, across the Hudson, and out toward the Statue of Liberty.
The observatory is indoors and fully enclosed, which makes it a great option year-round. If you’re visiting the 9/11 Memorial or walking around Lower Manhattan, this is a perfect addition. It’s one of the tallest buildings in the Western Hemisphere and one of the most visited tourist attractions in NYC. You’ll leave with incredible photos and a whole new perspective of the city!
Address: 285 Fulton St, New York, NY 10007
#5. 9/11 Memorial and Museum
Visiting the 9/11 Memorial and Museum is a profound experience. Your first stop should be the memorial pools, where you can take some time reading the names of the lives lost during the terrorist attacks. It’s a space for reflection, and even in a busy city, people naturally lower their voices here.
Inside the museum, the exhibits are very emotional. You walk through the timeline of events, see recovered artifacts, and hear stories that stay with you long after you leave. It’s a tough visit, but an important one. I’ve brought friends and family here, and we’ve all left with a deeper understanding of that day and its impact.
Address: 180 Greenwich St, New York, NY 10007
#4. Statue of Liberty
We can’t talk about the best tourist attractions in New York City without mentioning the Statue of Liberty! I’ve done the ferry ride a few times now, and the moment she comes into view still gives me chills, it’s such a cool experience!
To see the statue up close, you’ll need to get tickets in advance (they sell out fast, so buy them ASAP). Tickets in hand, you’ll take the Statue City Cruises ferry from Battery Park, which also stops at Ellis Island. The ride alone is worth it for the skyline views.
Once on Liberty Island, you can walk the perimeter, visit the museum, or climb up to the pedestal with a timed ticket. If you want to go all the way to the crown, book well in advance because this is one of the most visited attractions in NYC. Plan a few hours for the full trip and bring water, especially in warmer months.
Address: New York Harbor, New York, NY 10004
#3. Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is one of the first places I visited when I moved to New York, and it still impresses me every time. It’s a classic NYC landmark, and the views from the top are just as spectacular as you’d hope. You get a full 360-degree view of the city, with Central Park to the north and the Statue of Liberty to the south.
I recommend going early in the morning or right before sunset to avoid the biggest crowds. The exhibits on the way up walk you through the building’s history, which is pretty cool. If you’re looking for the best observation decks in NYC, the Empire State Building should definitely be on your list. The photos are great, but standing up there in person is even better.
Address: 20 W 34th St., New York, NY 10001
#2. Times Square
I always tell people to visit Times Square at night. The energy, the lights, the sheer volume of people! It’s loud, chaotic, and packed with people from all over the world, which is part of the allure (at least I think so).
There’s no denying that Times Square is one of the most popular tourist attractions in New York City, and while locals might avoid it, it’s still worth seeing. The electronic billboards, street performers, giant stores, and theater marquees are an experience you won’t soon forget!
I like to enter around 46th Street and walk toward 42nd. If I’m showing someone around the city, this is usually one of the first places we go. You don’t need to spend a lot of time here though. Just a few minutes standing in the middle of it all gives you a sense of the scale and energy of the city. It’s overstimulating, yes, but also unforgettable.
You might want to read: 20+ Epic Things to Do in Times Square (Perfect for First Time Visitors).
#1. Central Park
Central Park is one of my favorite places to slow down in New York City. It’s massive, stretching from 59th to 110th Street, and there’s always something new to discover. I love entering at different spots depending on the day — sometimes I head straight for the Great Lawn, other times I wander toward the Bow Bridge or the Conservatory Garden uptown.
There’s space to picnic, read, jog, or just people-watch. The seasons change everything here: blooming cherry trees in spring, rowboats in summer, colorful leaves in fall, and snowy paths in winter. Central Park is one of the most visited attractions in NYC and for good reason.
You can spend an hour or a full day exploring. It connects neighborhoods, offers fresh air, and gives you those quiet moments that balance out the city’s chaos. If you’re planning a trip to New York, this park deserves a spot at the top of your list. It’s iconic, beautiful, and always open.
Cheers!
Leave a Reply