Visit New York City

Local Attractions

New York City is one of the most iconic and exciting destinations in the world. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there’s always something new to discover in the Big Apple. But with so many attractions to choose from, how do you decide what to see and do in NYC? Here are some of the best attractions for visiting New York City, based on popularity, diversity, and uniqueness.

Central Park

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Central Park is America’s first public landscaped park, covering 843 acres of land in the middle of NYC. It’s a green oasis where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy nature, recreation, culture, and history. You can explore the park on foot, by bike, by carriage, or by boat. Some of the highlights include:

– The Bethesda Fountain and Terrace, featuring a beautiful angel statue and a mosaic ceiling
– The Belvedere Castle, offering panoramic views of the park and the city
– The Strawberry Fields, a memorial to John Lennon and a place of peace and music
– The Central Park Zoo, home to more than 200 animals from around the world
– The Conservatory Garden, a formal garden with three sections inspired by French, Italian, and English styles
– The Loeb Boathouse, where you can rent a rowboat or enjoy a meal overlooking the lake

Statue of Liberty

statue-liberty-new-york-city-skyline-usaThe Statue of Liberty is one of the most recognizable symbols of freedom and democracy in the world. It was a gift from France to the United States in 1886 to commemorate the centennial of the American Revolution. The statue stands on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, and you can reach it by ferry from Battery Park or Liberty State Park. You can admire the statue from the ground, climb up to the pedestal or the crown (advance reservations required), or visit the museum inside the base. You can also learn more about the history and significance of the statue at the Ellis Island Immigration Museum, which is part of the same national monument.

Empire State Building

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The Empire State Building is one of the most iconic skyscrapers in New York City and a symbol of its skyline. It was completed in 1931 and was the tallest building in the world until 1972. It has 102 floors and stands at 1,454 feet (443 meters) tall. You can visit the observation decks on the 86th and 102nd floors and enjoy breathtaking views of the city and beyond. You can also learn about the history and construction of the building at the exhibits on the second floor. At night, you can see the building lit up in different colors to celebrate various occasions and events.

Times Square

new York city - Times SquareTimes Square is one of the most vibrant and bustling places in New York City. It’s where Broadway meets Seventh Avenue and where millions of people gather every year to watch the famous ball drop on New Year’s Eve. Times Square is also known for its bright neon signs, giant billboards, street performers, souvenir shops, restaurants, theaters, and attractions. You can find everything from Madame Tussauds wax museum to Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium to M&M’s World. You can also catch a Broadway show at one of the many theaters around Times Square or join a guided tour to learn more about its history and secrets.

Rockefeller Center

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Rockefeller Center is a complex of 19 buildings in Midtown Manhattan that was built by the Rockefeller family in the 1930s. It’s a hub of culture, entertainment, and business, and a popular destination for visitors and locals alike. You can find some of the best attractions in New York City here, such as:
– The Top of the Rock Observation Deck, offering 360-degree views of the city from 70 floors up
– The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, a giant spruce decorated with thousands of lights and ornaments
– The Radio City Music Hall, a legendary venue for concerts, shows, and events
– The NBC Studios, where you can take a behind-the-scenes tour or watch a live taping of your favorite shows
– The Rink at Rockefeller Center, where you can skate on the famous ice rink in winter or dine al fresco in summer