Visiting New York City’s famous landmarks is like exploring a giant chest overflowing with culture, history, and amazing buildings. However, with so much to see, it can be confusing for first-timers to know where to start. 

You sure want to make the most out of your stay in The Big Apple, don’t you? You’ve come to the right place! This guide promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of this iconic city. 

Statue of Liberty 

Wondering what to do in New York? Why not start with one of the most popular statues in the world? A gift from France to the United States, the Statue of Liberty stands tall on Liberty Island in New York Harbor. It’s a symbol of freedom and democracy, welcoming immigrants to the country. 

Visitors can take a ferry from Battery Park in Lower Manhattan to Liberty Island to see the statue up close. Ferries depart regularly throughout the day. You can buy tickets in advance or upon arrival.

Empire State Building 

Completed in 1931, the Empire State Building held the title of the tallest building in the world for nearly 40 years. Its Art Deco design and iconic silhouette make it a symbol of New York City. 

Visitors can take elevators to the 86th- and 102nd-floor observatories for breathtaking views of the city skyline. You can reach the Empire State Building easily by subway. No matter which line you’re on, simply transfer to any train that stops at 34th Street – Herald Square Station, which is right next to the building’s entrance.

Times Square

Located in the heart of Manhattan, Times Square is known for its dazzling lights, giant billboards, and bustling crowds. It’s a major commercial and entertainment hub, home to theaters, shops, restaurants, and street performers. Times Square is especially vibrant at night when the neon signs illuminate the area. 

Getting to Times Square is a breeze! Many lines service the area, including the 1, 2, 3, 7, A, C, E, N, Q, R, and W trains. The most convenient stop is Times Square–42nd Street Station, which puts you right in the heart of the action.

Central Park

Spanning 843 acres in the middle of Manhattan, Central Park is a sprawling oasis amidst the city’s skyscrapers. Visitors can stroll along winding pathways, rent a boat on the lake, visit the Central Park Zoo, or simply relax on the Great Lawn. The park also features sculptures, bridges, and gardens, providing plenty of opportunities for recreation and exploration. 

Central Park is accessible from multiple subway stations along its borders. The N, Q, and R lines stop at Fifth Avenue–59th Street Station near the park’s northern entrance, while the B, D, F, and M lines can take you to Bryant Park–42nd Street Station on the west side.

Brooklyn Bridge

Connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn across the East River, the Brooklyn Bridge is an iconic symbol of New York City. Completed in 1883, it was the world’s first steel-wire suspension bridge. Visitors can walk or bike across the bridge’s elevated pedestrian path, enjoying panoramic views of the city skyline and the Statue of Liberty. 

The Manhattan end of the Brooklyn Bridge is located at City Hall Park, accessible via the 4, 5, and 6 trains to Brooklyn Bridge–City Hall Station.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Commonly referred to as the Met, this world-renowned museum houses an extensive collection of art spanning over 5,000 years of history. From ancient Egyptian artifacts to modern masterpieces, the Met’s galleries showcase a diverse range of artistic treasures. Highlights include works by Rembrandt, Monet, and Egyptian mummies. 

The Met is located on Fifth Avenue at 82nd Street on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. The museum is easily accessible by subway; just take the 4, 5, and 6 trains to 86th Street Station.

One World Trade Center and 9/11 Memorial

Rising from the ashes of the September 11th attacks, One World Trade Center now stands as the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. Nearby, the 9/11 Memorial pays tribute to the victims. 

Twin reflecting pools occupy the footprints of the original Twin Towers, framed by bronze panels etched with the names of those lost. This somber site and the towering skyscraper can both be found in Lower Manhattan, close to the original World Trade Center location. The area is accessible via multiple subway lines, including the A, C, E, N, R, and W trains to Cortlandt Street Station.

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

Founded in 1929, MoMA is one of the most influential museums of modern and contemporary art in the world. Its collection includes works by well-renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso, Vincent van Gogh, Andy Warhol, and Jackson Pollock. In addition to paintings and sculptures, the museum features photography, film, design, and architecture.

MoMA is located at 11 West 53rd Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues in Midtown Manhattan. The museum can be reached via the E or M trains to 5th Avenue–53rd Street Station.

Broadway

Known as the pinnacle of American theater, Broadway is home to some of the world’s most renowned theaters and productions. From classic musicals like ‘The Phantom of the Opera’ to Tony Award-winning plays like ‘Hamilton,’ there’s a show for every taste. Catching a Broadway performance is a quintessential New York City experience. 

The majority of Broadway theaters are located in Midtown Manhattan, centered around Times Square. You can use the same subway options mentioned for Times Square to get to most Broadway theaters.

Wrapping Up

New York City is a kaleidoscope of experiences for first-time visitors, and that’s thanks to its stunning landmarks! Admire art at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Take in panoramic views from the Empire State Building. Each landmark oh so wonderfully encapsulates the city’s dynamic energy and cultural richness. Exploring these iconic sites promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of one of the world’s most iconic cities.