Welcome to New York City – The City That Never Sleeps!
From dazzling Broadway shows to world-class museums, iconic landmarks, and diverse neighborhoods, New York City offers something unforgettable for every traveler. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, you’ll always discover something new.
Below are the top attractions in New York City with history, highlights, and travel tips.
1. Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
The Statue of Liberty, gifted by France in 1886, is one of the world’s most recognized symbols of freedom and democracy. Designed by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and engineered by Gustave Eiffel (yes—the Eiffel Tower), Lady Liberty welcomes millions each year.
Just next door, Ellis Island served as the main entry point for over 12 million immigrants between 1892 and 1954. Today, the Ellis Island National Immigration Museum tells their powerful stories.
Why Visit?
- See one of the most famous landmarks in the world.
- Learn about American immigration history.
- Visit both islands in one ferry trip.
How to Visit
- Buying Tickets: Visit Statue of Liberty
- Ferries depart from Battery Park (Manhattan) or Liberty State Park (New Jersey).
- Book tickets online in advance—especially for pedestal or crown access.
Statue of Liberty Ticket Prices
| Ticket Type | Adult | Child (4–12) | Senior (62+) | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| General Admission | $25.50 | — | — | Ferry round-trip, Liberty & Ellis Islands, museums |
| Pedestal Access | ~$25.80 | ~$16.80 | ~$22.80 | General Admission + pedestal access |
| Crown Access | ~$25.80 | ~$16.80 | ~$22.80 | General Admission + climb to the crown (162 steps, no elevator) |
| Reserve (Grounds Only) | $32.50 | $23.50 | $29.50 | Priority ferry + audio tour + grounds access |
| Reserve + Pedestal | $32.80 | $23.80 | $29.80 | Includes pedestal access + priority ferry |
| Reserve + Crown | Price varies | — | — | Includes crown access, limited availability |
Tips:
- Crown tickets sell out months in advance.
- Pedestal tickets are usually available if booked a day or two early.
- Priority “Reserve” tickets save time during peak seasons.
Highlights at Ellis Island
- Immigration Museum – Exhibits on immigrant journeys.
- The Great Hall – Walk in the footsteps of millions of newcomers.
- Family History Center – Search passenger lists and records.
- Wall of Honor – See names of immigrants engraved in tribute.
2. Times Square
Once called Longacre Square, it became Times Square in 1904 when The New York Times set up headquarters there. Today, it’s one of the most visited attractions in the world, drawing 50+ million visitors annually.
Things to Do in Times Square
- See the dazzling digital billboards (best at night).
- Watch street performers and artists.
- Visit M&M’s World and Hershey’s Chocolate World.
- Celebrate New Year’s Eve ball drop if visiting in December.
💡 Unique Experience: Celebrate a birthday or anniversary by putting a photo on a Times Square billboard. Cost: $150 for 24 hours (shown every 15 seconds).
3. Central Park
Designed in 1858 by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, Central Park was the first landscaped public park in the U.S. Covering 843 acres, it’s been featured in countless movies and TV shows.
Best Things to Do in Central Park
- Rent a rowboat at Loeb Boathouse.
- Visit Strawberry Fields, a tribute to John Lennon.
- Explore The Ramble, a birdwatcher’s paradise.
- Take the kids to Central Park Zoo.
- Picnic on the Great Lawn or Sheep Meadow.
4. Empire State Building
Built in 1931 during the Great Depression, the Empire State Building was the world’s tallest skyscraper until 1970. Its Art Deco design makes it one of NYC’s most iconic sights.
Things to Do
- Visit the 86th-floor observation deck for panoramic views.
- Upgrade to the 102nd floor for an even higher perspective.
- Explore exhibits on its history and construction.
- Visit at night when the tower glows in colorful lights.
5. Brooklyn Bridge
Opened in 1883, the Brooklyn Bridge was the first steel-wire suspension bridge in the world—an engineering marvel of its time.
Top Experiences
- Walk or bike across (takes about 30 minutes on foot).
- Stop midway for skyline photos of Manhattan and Brooklyn.
- Explore DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) for food, art, and cobblestone charm.
- Catch sunset for breathtaking photos.
6. Broadway & Theater District
Since the late 1800s, Broadway has been the heart of American theater. With over 40 theaters, it’s home to legendary musicals and plays.
Things to Do
- See classics like The Lion King, Hamilton, or Wicked.
- Get discounted tickets at the TKTS booth in Times Square.
- Take a backstage tour of historic theaters.
- Enjoy a pre-show dinner in Hell’s Kitchen.
7. Museums & Culture
The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met)
- Founded in 1870; the largest art museum in the U.S.
- Highlights: Egyptian Temple of Dendur, rooftop garden views.
Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
- Features works by Picasso, Van Gogh, Warhol, and Monet.
- Home to Van Gogh’s Starry Night.
American Museum of Natural History
- Opened in 1869; one of the world’s largest museums.
- Highlights: giant dinosaur fossils, Rose Center for Earth and Space.
✨ Final Tip: New York City is best explored at your own pace. Plan a mix of iconic landmarks and neighborhood discoveries—you’ll always leave wanting to come back. To learn about other attractions in new york, visit: Top attractions in NYC
