New York City is the world's capital - of finance, culture, fashion, and attitude. From the bright lights of Times Square to the green expanse of Central Park, from world-class museums to underground jazz clubs, NYC packs more into its five boroughs than most countries offer. It's relentless, exhilarating, and utterly unforgettable.
Top Attractions
Central Park
This 843-acre urban oasis is the most visited park in America. Designed in 1858, it features meadows, lakes, the Central Park Zoo, Bethesda Fountain, Strawberry Fields (John Lennon memorial), and the reservoir where Jackie O used to jog. Rent a rowboat, catch a free SummerStage concert, or simply people-watch.
Visitor Information
- Admission: Free
- Hours: 6am-1am daily
- Best Spots: Bethesda Terrace, Bow Bridge, The Ramble
- Tip: Rent bikes at Central Park Bike Tours ($15/hour)
Empire State Building
The 102-story Art Deco masterpiece was the world's tallest building for 40 years. The 86th-floor observation deck offers 360-degree views of all five boroughs, while the 102nd-floor offers an even higher vantage point. The building's colored lights celebrate different holidays and events throughout the year.
Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
The 93-meter copper statue, a gift from France in 1886, remains the world's most famous symbol of freedom. Book ahead for crown access (just 240 visitors/day) or explore the pedestal museum. Ellis Island, where 12 million immigrants entered America, offers a moving look at the American immigration story.
Times Square
Love it or hate it, Times Square is an essential NYC experience. The intersection of Broadway and 7th Avenue is flooded with neon billboards, street performers, and 330,000 daily visitors. See a Broadway show, grab TKTS discount tickets, or just soak in the sensory overload. Best experienced after dark.
Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Met is America's largest art museum with 2 million works spanning Egyptian temples to contemporary masterpieces. Highlights include the Temple of Dendur, European paintings gallery, and the rooftop sculpture garden with Central Park views. You could visit weekly for a year and not see everything.
Brooklyn Bridge
Walk across one of the world's most iconic bridges for spectacular views of both Manhattan and Brooklyn skylines. Built in 1883, it was the world's longest suspension bridge. The mile-long pedestrian walkway takes about 30 minutes. Start from Brooklyn and end in Manhattan for the best views.
NYC Food Guide
NYC is the world's great culinary melting pot. From $1 pizza slices to $500 tasting menus, from dim sum in Chinatown to pastrami on rye at a Jewish deli, every cuisine on Earth is represented - often at its finest. The city has over 27,000 restaurants.
Must-Try Dishes
NYC Pizza
Thin, foldable slices with perfect char and a crispy-chewy crust. $1-3 per slice at corner spots.
Try: Joe's Pizza, Di Fara, or Prince Street Pizza
Bagel with Lox
Hand-rolled, boiled, then baked bagels with cream cheese, smoked salmon, capers, and onion. $12-18.
Try: Russ & Daughters or Ess-a-Bagel
Pastrami Sandwich
Towering stacks of hand-cut pastrami on rye with mustard. A Jewish deli institution. $20-25.
Try: Katz's Delicatessen (since 1888)
Cheesecake
Dense, creamy New York-style cheesecake. No frills, just perfect. $8-12 per slice.
Try: Junior's or Eileen's Special Cheesecake
Hot Dog
Classic NYC street cart dog with sauerkraut and mustard. A quintessential on-the-go bite. $3-5.
Try: Gray's Papaya or any street cart
Dim Sum
NYC's Chinatown rivals Hong Kong for quality dim sum. Go weekend brunch for rolling cart service. $30-50.
Try: Nom Wah Tea Parlor or Jing Fong
Practical Information
Getting Around
- Subway: 472 stations, 24/7 service. $2.90 per ride, $33/week unlimited
- OMNY: Tap contactless card/phone - capped at $33/week
- Citi Bike: 850+ stations. $4.49 single ride, $19/month membership
- Walking: Manhattan is highly walkable - 20 blocks = 1 mile
Budget Guide (Per Day)
- Budget: $100-150 (hostels, pizza/deli, free museums)
- Mid-range: $250-400 (3-star hotels, restaurants, Broadway)
- Luxury: $600+ (5-star hotels, fine dining, shows, experiences)
Best Time to Visit
- Apr-Jun: Spring blooms, outdoor cafes, pleasant weather
- Sep-Nov: Fall colors, fashion week, best weather
- Dec: Holiday magic - lights, markets, Rockefeller tree
- Jan-Mar: Cold but cheapest hotels and Broadway tickets
Interactive Map
Explore New York's top attractions on the map. Click markers for details and directions.
Key Attractions on Map
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