From the Statue of Liberty to the Broadway stage and countless skyscrapers in between, New York is a city rich in visitor attractions ensuring that there is no shortage of great things to see and do.
For first-time visitors in particular, deciding which attractions to prioritise can be quite the challenge. To help you make the most of your time away, we have selected five of the best tourist attractions in New York that deserve a place on your holiday itinerary. Whether you are travelling with family, exploring with friends or enjoying a romantic city break, these popular tourist attractions in New York offer something for everyone.
1. Statue of Liberty
No visit to New York would be complete without seeing the Statue of Liberty. Standing proudly on Liberty Island in New York Harbour, Lady Liberty has welcomed visitors to the city since 1886, when she was officially dedicated following a gift from France to the United States.
The colossal statue was designed by French sculptor Frederic Auguste Bartholdi, with its internal structure engineered by Gustave Eiffel, who would later lend his name to another world-famous landmark in Paris. The statue represents freedom and democracy and has become one of the most enduring symbols of American society.
Visiting Liberty Island provides the opportunity to admire the monument up close while enjoying spectacular views across Manhattan and New York harbour. Those looking for an extra sense of adventure can climb inside the statue itself, while the nearby Ellis Island Immigration Museum offers further insight into the experiences of millions of immigrants who passed through New York.
As one of the most popular tourist attractions in New York, the Statue of Liberty has to be right near the top of any first-time visitors' to-do list..
2. Times Square
Few New York City attractions capture the energy of the city quite like Times Square. Famous for its dazzling electronic billboards and neon-lit streets, this bustling crossroads in Midtown Manhattan is a place where you can truly soak up the atmosphere of the city that never sleeps.
Originally known as Longacre Square, the area was renamed Times Square in 1904 following the relocation of The New York Times' headquarters. Over the decades, it has developed into a vibrant entertainment and commercial hub which is recognisable across the world.
Times Square is surrounded by flagship stores, restaurants, theatres and attractions, making it the ultimate centre for entertainment with something for everyone. Whether you want to shop for souvenirs, grab a meal or simply take in the spectacle of the illuminated streets, there is always something happening here.
With attractions such as Madame Tussauds New York, the multi-storey M&Ms superstore where you can print your own customised M&Ms and family friendly restaurants such as Ellen's Stardust Diner, Times Square is also one of the best New York City attractions for teenagers and younger children. You can be confident that they'll never run out of things to do here no matter how many times you visit during your time away.
3. Central Park
Providing a peaceful contrast to Manhattan's busy streets, Central Park is a vast urban oasis stretching across the heart of the city. Opened in 1858, it was created by landscape designers Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux as a place where New Yorkers could escape the rapidly developing city.
Today, Central Park remains one of the most beloved tourist attractions in New York, with scenic walking paths, lakes, gardens, bridges and open spaces just waiting to be explored. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing stroll, hire a bicycle, take a horse-drawn carriage ride or simply find a scenic spot for a picnic.
Central Park is a particularly versatile attraction, appealing to families looking for space to relax, couples seeking a romantic setting and anyone wanting a break from sightseeing. Its numerous landmarks and beautiful landscapes also make it a favourite with photographers.
4. Empire State Building
Few landmarks define the New York skyline quite like the Empire State Building. Completed in 1931 during the height of the Great Depression, the Art Deco skyscraper was constructed in just over a year and quickly became one of the world's most recognisable buildings.
Standing 1,454 feet tall including its antenna, the Empire State Building offers spectacular panoramic views from its observation decks. Looking out across Manhattan from high above the city provides an entirely different perspective on New York, with landmarks stretching out towards the horizon.
A visit is particularly rewarding around sunset, when the city gradually transforms from day into a glittering sea of lights. It is an excellent choice for couples, photographers, families and anyone wanting to experience one of the city's defining landmarks.
5. Broadway
For an unforgettable evening in New York, catching a live show on Broadway is an absolute must. Broadway refers to the collection of professional theatres located in and around Manhattan's Theatre District, an area that has become synonymous with world-class musical theatre and drama.
The modern Broadway theatre scene developed during the 19th and early 20th centuries, eventually becoming one of the world's leading centres for live entertainment. Today, audiences can choose from an extraordinary variety of productions, ranging from spectacular musicals to world famous plays starring some of the entertainment industries biggest names.
Watching a Broadway show provides an opportunity to experience New York's entertainment culture first-hand. Irrespective of whether you are 4, 14, 44 or 84, there's sure to be a Broadway production that appeals to you during your time away.
Create Your Perfect New York City Break
From iconic landmarks and unforgettable skyline views to world-class entertainment, these are just five of what we consider to be the best tourist attractions in New York. The beauty of a city break here is that there is always something new to discover, whatever your interests and regardless of how many times you visit.
Get in touch with the Luxury Travel Specialists at Elegant Resorts to create your own New York City break. Using their first hand experience, they can design a tailor made itinerary filled with the attractions, experiences and activities that are best suited to you, helping you maximise your time away in this extraordinary city.