10 Best Things to See in New York
This week’s Destination of the Week is New York. The city that never sleeps, it is one of the most popular destinations in the USA. You can’t go anywhere in New York without walking past a landmark or just being utterly spellbound and overwhelmed by the sights, sounds and smells. In this article we’ll take you through the best things to see in New York, as this list could go on forever, we’re going to give you our top 10, to help you make the most of your trip.
1 – The Empire State Building
One of the most iconic buildings in the world, let alone the USA or the city, the Empire State Building should be the first place on your itinerary. Built in the early 1930s, the building has 102 stories and gives you a spectacular view from its observation deck which is always regularly busy. For view of the surrounding area, the daytime is best as you can see all the way towards New Jersey in the south and further into New York State in the north. To get the beauty of the lights and the atmosphere, the nighttime is best. Get tickets here
2 – The Statue of Liberty
Another of New York’s most famous landmarks, this statue was presented to the USA by the people of France back in 1886. It is located off the south of Manhattan just past Ellis Island. You get there by ferry and the ticket takes you to both Liberty and Ellis Island. You can go to the foot of the statue and walk around the small island, there is also the viewing port in the crown. Get tickets here
3 – Times Square
A visual feast for the eyes, Times Square is an intersection in the Midtown of the city full of large stores of big brands, street performers and much, much more. The best time to go is at night to take it all in, as the lights and billboards just aren’t the same in the day.
4 – Central Park
Taking up 51 blocks of the centre of Manhattan Island, this park is a stark contrast to the wall-to-wall skyscrapers everywhere else you go. If you want somewhere to relax and quietly walk around or sit down, this is the place. With boating lakes, small shops, and carousels amongst other things, it’s a great place to get away for a few hours.
5 – One World Trade Center and the 9/11 Memorial
This powerful reminder of September 11th and the new tower which stands over it, is naturally a very emotional place. The water features with the names of the victims are sobering and give you an idea of the size of the towers and the complex as a whole. The museum on site gives loads of information for those who want to learn more.
6 – Ellis Island
One of the most important places in American history, Ellis Island was the centre which all immigrants looking to move to New York and New Jersey went through. The island gives visitors a fascinating look at the multicultural history of the United States and how migration from Europe and abroad influenced it. You buy a ticket for both Ellis and Liberty Island when booking as the ferry stops at both.
7 – The American Museum of Natural History
With approximately 32 million artefacts inside, this massive museum which covers 4 city blocks, allows you to explore the natural world and the universe around us. With many classic exhibits and many fascinating temporary ones, this is one of the best museums in the city for those of all ages. Since the pandemic, you need to prebook time slots so that they can limit capacity, this will need to be done in advance.
8 – The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Famous for its gala and its massive array of artwork, the museum sits on the edge of Central Park in the Upper East Side. Showcasing art and historical pieces from across the world, its exhibitions touch on themes and give more in depth looks into the works of artists and their movements such Rembrandt, Hals and Vermeer. As with the Museum of Natural History, you have to prebook tickets in time slots so make sure you do this before you arrive.
9 – The Brooklyn Bridge
Having opened in 1883, this bridge stretches between Manhattan and Brooklyn, giving visitors a great look at the Manhattan skyline and well as being an iconic landmark itself. Its central walkway enables you to walk the length of the bridge and take in the views along the way.
10 – Madison Square Garden
One of the most iconic sporting venues in the world, this venue has seen countless classic matches, tournaments and fights such as ‘The Fight of the Century’ between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier. Home to 2 of New York’s professional sports teams, the Knicks and the Rangers, it’s a great place to take in a game or any of the many concerts which are held there.
We hope this has given you an idea of some of the best places to check out in New York. To find out about other holiday destinations, take a look around our website or read our blogs to see what takes your fancy. If you know where you’re looking to book call us on 0115 784 3388, email enquiries@ct4ntravel.co.uk or fill in our contact form with what you’re looking for. Don't forget to follow us on social media to find out the next Destination of the Week and for all your holiday needs. If you've been to New York, where was your favourite place? What was the best thing you did, or do you think we missed anything? Let us know in the comments or on social media, just click the buttons below which take you to our social pages.