If you are visiting New York for the first time or simply want to add some excitement to your vacation, there are plenty of fantastic attractions to choose from.
One of the most iconic sights to see in NYC is the Statue of Liberty. This symbol of liberation should not be missed by any visitor to New York. With more and more flights to New York available from Cathay Pacific, all of the attractions can be experienced.
1. Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty is a symbol of liberation and democracy in New York City, and visitors can take either a self-guided tour or join an official Park Ranger guided tour to explore its surroundings.
In 1865, French historian and anti-slavery advocate Edouard Rene de Laboulaye proposed a large statue to symbolize the friendship between France and America.
After visiting the United States, Bartholdi decided that Bedloe’s Island (now known as Liberty Island) would be the ideal site for his statue. With this choice, his sculpture could be seen by every ship entering New York Harbor.
Bartholdi’s design was inspired by the Roman goddess Libertas, who is credited with spreading peace and freedom across the world. Her crown has seven spikes representing each of the seven seas and continents, while she holds a tablet bearing the date July 4, 1776 written in Roman numerals.
2. Times Square
One of New York City’s most beloved attractions, Times Square draws millions of visitors each year to watch the New Year’s Eve ball drop and other festive events. It serves as both the heart of theater district and one of Manhattan’s busiest areas.
Aside from the iconic Broadway shows, New York offers many other fascinating attractions that will make your trip worthwhile. Ripley’s Believe it or Not features some of the world’s strangest artifacts while Gulliver’s Gate displays miniature versions of cities and landmarks from around the world.
If you’re a fan of theater, be sure to visit the Drama Book Shop – an essential resource for many Broadway actors and plays. And if Christmas is your thing, stop by Christmas in New York store for some seasonal cheer.
3. Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is one of the world’s most iconic landmarks and a must-see attraction for visitors to New York City. When visiting this iconic structure, make sure to head up the observation decks for some breathtaking views of the city below.
The 86th floor observatory is the most popular tourist destination at the Empire State Building, offering stunning 360-degree views of New York. You can upgrade to the 102nd floor observatory for even more picturesque vistas of the city.
As with many tourist attractions, it’s best to buy your tickets in advance in order to avoid standing in line during peak times. The simplest way to do this is by booking them online prior to arriving in New York.
4. The Met
The Met is one of the world’s greatest museums, boasting a stunning collection of art from all corners of the globe. Its 17 acres of gallery space welcomes 5 million visitors annually.
The permanent museum collections at The Met showcase artworks from classical antiquity and Ancient Egypt; paintings and sculptures created by nearly all European masters; as well as an impressive American and modern art collection. Additionally, The Met has significant holdings of African, Asian, Oceanian, Byzantine and Islamic art pieces.
Egyptian, Greek and Roman art is a top attraction at the Met. Take an exciting tour through a room full of ancient marble statues and portrait busts, or visit the main Greek and Roman showroom to admire its cool smooth ionic columns and natural light from skylights above.
5. Museum of Natural History
The Museum of Natural History is one of New York City’s top attractions and a must-see for anyone visiting the city. At 148 years, this institution has consistently topped lists of the world’s best science museums, offering exhibits that will leave you with an appreciation for our planet and an inquisitive nature about life’s evolution.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site encompasses 28 interconnected buildings and houses an amazing collection of over 32 million specimens and artifacts. The museum’s curators seamlessly fuse together history, present day technology, and future visions for an immersive experience that will educate, thrill, and enlighten all who visit it.
The halls at the Museum of Natural History are divided into sections covering biodiversity and the environment, birds, reptiles and amphibians, Earth & planetary sciences, fossils, mammals, human origins and cultures. A must-visit highlight is Fossil Hall featuring crowd pleasing exhibits like an Apatosaurus skeleton or Tyrannosaurus rex frozen mid-prowl (its kitchen knife-sized teeth will scare you to death!). These are just two examples among many must-see exhibits at this amazing museum!
6. St Patrick’s Cathedral
On Fifth Avenue, St Patrick’s Neo-Gothic Roman Catholic Cathedral stands as America’s tallest church with its twin spires protruding above the cityscape. A truly iconic sight among its fellow skyscrapers.
Its majestic bronze doors and stunning high altar are worth a visit in and of themselves, but the true splendor of this iconic building lies within its history.
The cathedral was constructed largely through donations from both poor immigrants and prominent citizens, serving as a reminder that New York City has always been more than just a city – it’s a beacon of hope.
Inside you’ll find thousands of stained glass windows, a replica of Michelangelo’s Pieta (three times bigger than the original), and artworks by artists from around the globe. If you have time to spare, don’t miss out on free organ music concerts!
7. The High Line
The High Line is an elevated train track that runs for nearly one and a half miles along the West Side of Manhattan, offering stunning views of the city below. It has become one of New York City’s most beloved attractions.
The park is divided into sections that feature naturalized plantings, pebble-dash concrete walkways and railroad ties that serve to commemorate its former use. Many of its attractions also offer stunning river views.
The High Line is open all year round and provides benches to sit on while admiring the scenery. However, be aware that it’s very popular and can get quite busy at times; so be prepared to wait your turn for a spot!
Take a stroll on the High Line or rent a bike to explore the area. Additionally, nearby neighborhoods like Chelsea offer many art galleries and plenty of dining and drinking establishments!
8. One World Observatory
At the summit of One World Trade Center, an observatory provides breathtaking views of New York City. At 1,776 feet (540 meters), you can even spot Lady Liberty and Brooklyn on a clear day!
The observatory is packed with other attractions to make the experience even more enjoyable. There are video displays and an iPad that provide information about the city.
Once at the observation deck, take a time-lapse of New York’s history as you ride in onboard the Sky Pod elevator for an 102 story ascent in just 47 seconds!
City Pulse, hosted by Tour Ambassadors at the observatory, provides an immersive presentation about New York’s neighborhoods, history and culture. Plus you can watch a show in See Forever theater.
