Some people are lucky enough to live the American dream and visit the land of opportunities, as an old saying wisely lets us know, but among all the incredible places you can see in the U.S.A., New York is probably the most exciting, desirable, dreamed – of, talked about and world – popularized city of them all. Are there only ten best places to visit in New York City? God, no, as to some people, discovering New York is a life long experience. The city that never sleeps, the city of all possibilities, the Sex and the City main and true character (among so many New York based movies and TV series), the postcard city, the one in which you can feel free, young and restless, a dreamy location where life is lived to the fullest. A city that was described in literature and sung in music. The city that can suffocate you or rise you to the stars.
If you are planning to travel to America this time of the year, you should definitely not miss New York city, one of the most amazing and breath taking cites in the United States. It is definitely one of those things to do once in a lifetime and the experience of a lifetime, especially for the first-timers. New York has so many impressive things to show, interesting spots to see, a huge cultural pool you can bask in, crazy nightlife and mind blowing excellent green spaces. Therefore, see below an useful list with the best places to visit in New York city and feel free to share you favorite spots too!
1. Statue of Liberty
This is, without any doubt, one of the most representative icons for the city and a giant neoclassical sculpture located in the middle of New York harbor. Statue of Liberty also known as the Liberty Enlightening the World, has a fascinating history just like its appearance and it was a gift offered by the French to Americans about one hundred years ago, as a recognition symbol of their friendship during the American revolution. It represents the symbol of freedom and back in the day, it welcomed immigrants who came in America looking for a better life. Tourists can climb up to the crown or walk around the Liberty Island to enjoy a breathtaking view. For more details about a memorable statue cruise, you can take a look here.
Photo via Flickr.com
2. Central Park
Why would you miss the occasion to enjoy nature and open green spaces in one of the most largest and popular parks in New York city? Central Park is a top attraction for the tourists all over the world, because there are endless fun activities to experience, including biking, horseback riding, jogging and other sports. Aside from having a positive impact on everyone who comes here to relax and enjoy great moments, the park offers also lots of sights to visit such as playgrounds, fountains, bridges or sculptures. For example, if you are traveling with your kids, they can see Alice in Wonderland statue, Bethesda fountain and others, along with events organized on a regular basis and a lot more.
3. The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Here’s another notable place to visit in New York city which is located nearby Central Park. If you are interested in art and you want to see over 2 million of masterpieces all over the world, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is the right place to be. Moreover, there’s no museum in USA to be so much celebrated as this one and you may not have the time to see entirely its large and diverse collection in one day or two.
4. Grand Central Station
Being more than just a hub for transportation, Grand Central Station is another great place to visit in New York city that offers shop places and restaurants too for tourists. However, before you enter and get lost in this beautiful train station, take a closer look at its interesting Beaux-Arts neoclassical architecture. For those interested to discover more about New York and important buildings, there is an organized free tour you can enjoy every Friday, including the Grand Station and the surrounding neighborhood.
5. Empire State Building
I don’t know about you, but when I think of Empire State Building, I immediately make a connection with the song “Empire State of mind” performed by Jay Z and Alicia Keys describing perfectly the American city and its iconic building. It remains a classic and a famous attraction for all tourists and the tallest skyscraper in the city that you shouldn’t miss. Check out a breathtaking view of New York and other areas (especially in the night when the lights are on) atop of this building (the 86th floor) and its art-deco architecture. Admit it, it is one of the best places to visit in New York city and one of those landmarks that put New York on the globe’s map for eternity.
6. Rockefeller Center
This is a great place for any tourist to see it any time of year, especially by night when you can actually become familiar with the nightlife and get lost in the crowds. Given its central location, it is mostly famous for its big Christmas tree during the holidays, as well as the ice skating rink, but the top of the Rock Observation Deck is another great point of interest. It is a big-city experience that’s worth having during your vacation in New York city. Needless to say that the place offers also shopping options or dining restaurants, plus a view of the NBC Studious building.
7. The National September 11 Memorial & Museum
A special tribute in the memory of all approximately 3,000 victims of the memorable 2001 attack, the memorial is the place to reflect for those moments and find out other details about this tragic event. The overall atmosphere of the National September 11 Memorial can be moving for all tourists, knowing how many innocent lost their lives during those tragic, awful moments.
8. Time Square
Also known as the Crossroads of the World, it is an impressive and very popular commercial intersection, colorful and vivid place to feel the excitement and the vibration of true New York nightlife. Time Square is a great area where you shouldn’t miss the lights and noise created by crowds or its large and tall buildings, an active place that also hosts concerts or exhibitions.
9. St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Located in the Rockefeller Center, this amazing Roman Catholic church decorated in the Neo-Gothic style is annually visited by approximately 5,5 million tourists who are truly inspired by its construction and history. The cathedral is a true example of the American Gothic style designed by architect James Renwick and the largest Catholic church in United States that has been suffering lots of renovation projects over the last decades.
10. Soho
New York is all about shopping, fun activities and great moments spent with your friends and family. If Fifth Avenue is popular for top brands and designer stores with expensive and exquisite items, Soho succeeds to charm tourists with its affordable stores, as well as the great architecture. Whether you want to go shopping or eating something, this area is highly recommended.
Have you been to some of these best places to visit in New York city? Do you have other hot spots of your own you like best? If yes, which are your most favorite places visited in the city? Was one in particular that you enjoyed the most? Feel free to share your experiences with us.
