New York City | The One World Observatory offers a view of the famous skyline. (Updated 2024)
New York City
A lifetime of adventures in a single city
With 8.4 million residents and a skyline that is recognized around the world, New York City is teeming with excitement and diversity, from the famous landmarks you’ve seen on TV and in movies to undiscovered hidden treasures. Every one of the five boroughs—Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island—has a unique character, and particular communities continue to have their own identities. The subway, buses, and taxis are easily accessible, and it’s simple to travel from one district to another on walkable streets. Whether it’s your 100th or first visit, there’s always something new to experience.
Famous Attractions
Despite how many times you’ve seen them in films, seeing these iconic New York City sites in person is unmatched. A free ride on the Staten Island Ferry to get amazing views of both the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island is the perfect way to round off the first stop.
Experience the unmatched grandeur of a Broadway musical after taking in the hustle and brilliant lights of Times Square—two things you can only discover in New York City. See the Empire State Building from the summit and explore Rockefeller Center. Discover Grand Central Terminal, the city’s main transportation hub and a unique architectural jewel.
Rich in Natural Areas & Views
The focal point of the city’s urban park, Central Park, spans 341 hectares and features playgrounds, running trails, meadows, arches, and sculptures. There are several more green areas spread around the city, such as Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Queens’ largest park with a sizable leisure center, lots of space for sports, and a botanical garden, as well as Prospect Park in Brooklyn, Pelham Bay Park in the Bronx, and Greenbelt on Staten Island.
When it comes to panoramic scenes, NYC is unmatched. For views of New York Harbor and the city skylines, cross the Brooklyn Bridge. Alternatively, climb the Art Deco tower at 30 Rockefeller Plaza to reach the Top of The Rock, an observatory with 360-degree views of the city. Manhattan, Brooklyn, and New Jersey are showcased at the recently inaugurated One World Observatory, located on the 100th floor of One World Trade Center.
Essential Museums
Culture vultures adore the numerous modern artifacts in the Whitney Museum of American Art, the world-famous Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the modern treasures at the Museum of Modern Art. Visit the massive American Museum of Natural History and take in the opulent displays of its many treasures.
Don’t overlook the many institutions located outside of Manhattan. Inspiring cultural locations include the Staten Island Museum, the Bronx Museum of the Arts, the Queens Museum of Art, and the Brooklyn Museum.
Enjoyable for All
Although it’s a cliche, New York is the “city that never sleeps.” You can find everything at any time, whether it’s dancing, live music, or karaoke. See the historic home stadium of the New York Yankees. Take in a concert, ice hockey contest, or basketball game at Madison Square Garden.
Families can also find lots to do: Explore Coney Island, a charming coastal area in Brooklyn, where you can stroll along the boardwalk and ride amusement park rides. The largest metropolitan zoo in the United States, Bronx Zoo, has everything from baboons to American bison. The five boroughs are teeming with department stores, boutiques, showrooms, and vintage havens if shopping is more your thing.