New York is an incredible city, packed with iconic sights and attractions. It's one of the most popular destinations in the world and it's easy to see why!
Among the best things to do in NYC are visit the Empire State Building and stroll through Central Park. It's also possible to take a boat tour over the Hudson River and check out the Statue of Liberty.
1. The Empire State Building
The Empire State Building has a special place in the hearts of New Yorkers and tourists alike. The 102-story skyscraper, formerly the tallest in the world, has become an iconic symbol of the city and a favorite for television and movie fans.
The gleaming spire of the Empire State Building has been featured in many films and has been a part of the city's history since its opening in 1931. Built in a record-breaking time of one year and 45 days, it was born out of a desire to outdo the Chrysler Building's namesake, by car mogul Walter Chrysler, and General Motors executive John J. Raskob and former New York governor Al Smith.
The 86th floor observatory gives visitors an incredible view of Manhattan, while the 102-story observation deck offers breathtaking views as far as 80 miles into Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts and New Jersey. Whether you're visiting for a photo opportunity or to soak up the sights, it's worth spending a day or two exploring this prestigious building.
2. Battery Park
Battery Park, located in the lower tip of Manhattan, offers visitors and locals an opportunity to enjoy the sights of the city while being surrounded by a beautiful landscape. The waterfront public space has a rich history and is home to several small memorials.
This tranquil, delicately landscaped outdoor area is also a great spot to spend a summer afternoon while the city’s temperatures are hot. Take a stroll through the Battery Park Esplanade to enjoy a scenic view of the Statue of Liberty and Hudson River.
While in Battery Park, visitors should also stop by Castle Clinton, a monument built to honor the people who came before them. The park is also home to the East Coast Memorial, a large bronze eagle that commemorates American soldiers who died during World War II.
3. The Statue of Liberty
Located on Liberty Island in the heart of New York Harbor, the Statue of Liberty is a colossal symbol of freedom. The statue was a gift from France to the United States, and has welcomed millions of immigrants to the country through the years.
It is a tribute to the American people and their love of freedom, democracy and the idea of individual liberty. It is a national monument, and has been a source of inspiration for many writers and poets.
It is a copper statue and was designed by French sculptor Frederic Auguste Bartholdi. Its framework was built by Gustave Eiffel, the same man who designed the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
4. Times Square
Times Square is the heart of Manhattan, a commercial junction that's one of the most popular destinations for tourists in the city. A bustling intersection of entertainment, restaurants and shopping, it's a hub for international brands to promote their products and services.
It's also home to some of the most recognizable attractions in the world. Whether you're looking for a unique museum experience or just want to snap a picture with some crazy artifacts, there are plenty of great things to do in Times Square.
Besides the iconic red stairs that give you a birds-eye view of all the flashing lights and crowds, you'll also want to check out Gulliver's Gate, an interactive miniature museum that entertains kids of all ages. And if you're a chocolate lover, Hershey's Chocolate World and the M&M's World Store are two of the most fun things to do in Times Square!
5. The 9/11 Memorial
A powerful reminder of the loss of life, the twin reflecting pools are anchored by the footprints of the Twin Towers and feature the largest manmade waterfalls in North America. From their rims, cascades of water pour 30ft down toward a central void.
- Surrounding the pools are a series of bronze parapets, inscribed with the names of those who lost their lives in the World Trade Center bombings. You'll also find the Survivor Tree, one of only two trees that survived the destruction and was later planted at the memorial.
- The museum also features a slurry wall that was built under the World Trade Center in order to hold back the waters of the Hudson River. It's a unique design feature, and you'll definitely want to check it out.
