New York City is a vibrant mosaic of history, culture, and modern innovation. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there’s always something new to explore. From iconic landmarks to lesser-known treasures, here’s a guide to NYC’s top tourist attractions and some hidden gems, along with tips to make your trip unforgettable.
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Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
These symbols of freedom are must-visits for history lovers. Take a ferry to Liberty Island for up-close views of Lady Liberty, then head to Ellis Island to explore the Immigration Museum.
Tickets to go inside the statue require a booking.
Pedestal access is one tier, crown access is another. Each costs a different rate. Depending on your time of the visit, you will need to book months in advance.
Book tickets here.
Walkway, Manhattan, New York County, 10004Empire State Building
The most visited attraction in the United States and for good reason. More than four million visited in 2023.
The only downside is that being in the building means you can’t get photos of the building.
My tip is to photograph the building as you approach, 5th Ave around E 38th is a good place to start. As you approach the building, you lose the overview of it due to its size.
Don’t miss the lobby as you wait to go up to the 86th or the 102nd floor. It’s art deco at its best.
Avoid the pedicabs out the front 5th Avenue as you leave. It’s a circus with touts, people selling bus tours. Just leave the area.
Buy tickets here.
365 Fifth Ave, Manhattan, New York County, 10016
Central Park
This 843-acre urban oasis offers walking paths, lakes, and attractions like The Mall, Bethesda Terrace, and Strawberry Fields. Get a scenic view of the Great Lawn and Turtle Pond, from Belvedere Castle.
The southern half of the park is here you’ll find most tourists wander. If you go to the mid section around Jaqueline Onassis Reservoir, you’ll get a more local experience as people run or walk around it. Traffic flow is anti clockwise.
Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds.
Avoid pedicabs. They charge up to and beyond $9 per minute for a ride outside of Central Park. It’s better to walk and take a Ylore Travel self guide tour, or if you’re feeling active, rent a bike. You will see more and do more.
Times Square
Formerly known as Long Acre and home to the New York Times newspaper, it’s now a bedazzling world of neon lights, screens and Broadway theaters.
Pick your time when to go. Over 300,000 people visit here everyday.
Known as the Midnight Moment, funnily enough at midnight, for five minutes, all the screens synchronise to display art for five minutes. See more here https://www.timessquarenyc.org/arts/midnight-moment
Avoid the characters dressing up and the gimmicks.
Avoid in the early hours of the morning or you may be relieved of your belongings by someone who wants them more.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met)
This world-renowned museum houses over two million works of art, from ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces.
Bank on at least half a day here. It’s worth it.
Pick your time to go. Weekends are hectic, more so if it’s wet or cold. Also remember its closed Wednesdays, as I have found out myself!
Purchase tickets here.
Visit the rooftop garden offers stunning views of the park and city skyline. It’s little known but so worth it.
The gift shop, usually something at museums to avoid, stocks a great collection of very cool items to purchase.
If you are a New York resident you can ‘pay what you feel.’ A nice little perk.
1000 5th Ave, Manhattan, New York County, 10028Hidden Gems to Explore
The Morgan Library & Museum
One of my personal favorites in New York. A treasure trove of rare books and manuscripts, this spot is a quiet retreat from the city’s hustle.
Look out for the fireplace in the library.
The art is always changing, so check the website for the current artist of theme on display.
Free admission on Friday’s between 5.00pm and 8.00pm. Bonus.
231 Madison Ave, Manhattan, New York County, 10016The High Line
This elevated park on a former rail line is a favorite for locals and tourists alike. Its gardens, art installations, and views make it a unique experience.
Over five million visitors stroll through here every year. And for good reason, sights, pop up art and it’s a calm place from the noisy and often crazy streets of NYC.
Visit in the evening for fewer crowds and magical lighting.
Along the way you can easily exit off the High Line and visit the popular Chelsea Markets, or Little Island. Little Island looks more at home on a Star Wars set, but its a very cool place to explore. It’s interactive, you get very distant views of the Statue of Liberty and the skyline. It’s win win.
High Line, Manhattan, New York County, 10001Greenwich and West Village
No trip to NYC is complete without a stroll down Bleecker Street. It’s a vibe. It’s more local and has a local feel. Apparently people really like pizza here, there are several well known restaurants here, all so good.
My tip is to get a bagel and coffee and visit Father Demo Square and watch the comings and goings. There’s always something happening and to be frank, some unusual people. It’s like watching TV but better.
On weekends, visit ‘The Cage’ basketball half court where you’ll see some intense games.
1–11 Carmine St, Manhattan, New York County, 10014Travel Tips for the Big Apple
Public Transportation
Use the subway to save time and money. Plus its an experience, good or bad. 99% it;s good. Forget using a MetroCard. Tap and Go on your phone. It’s faster. Speed is key in NYC.
Walking Shoes
NYC is best explored on foot, so pack comfortable shoes. Every block is different and seeing the world from a ride share is not an immersive experience, which is why people come to NYC!
Plan ahead
Don’t expect to stroll up to major attractions such as SUMMIT ONE without a ticket. Book here.
I’m not a theatre person, but since moving to NYC I’ve seen quite a few and highly recommend going to a Broadway show.
Wrap up
New York City for most people is a once in a lifetime opportunity, so make the most of it. My best advice is to concentrate your sightseeing on one area, then move onto the next. Also take some time out to go to a bar during a sports game. It’s an immersive experience, or go to a local restaurant in areas like Chelsea or The Village. Avoid the chain restaurants, it’s not NYC, they’re for tourists.
As you visit NYC, Rate and Update places you’ve visited on the app, so you can pay it forward with the latest information and images.
Happy travels!
Bio
Brett Williams, founder of Ylore Travel, has explored over 50 countries and lived in four, embodying his passion for travel and cultural immersion. His love for discovering new places and unique experiences inspired the creation of Ylore, making self-guided travel accessible to adventurers worldwide.
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