New York City is one of the world's most iconic and vibrant tourist destinations, attracting millions of visitors each year with its famous landmarks, diverse neighborhoods, world-class dining, and endless entertainment options. This article will provide an overview of the top attractions to visit in NYC, including the best museums, parks, and experiences. It will also highlight the city's renowned food scene, offer recommendations for accommodations, and share tips for seeing a game at the legendary Yankee Stadium - visit if you want to know more about the iconic New York Yankees and their rich history.
Top attractions
No visit to New York City is complete without seeing the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Take a ferry to get an up-close look at Lady Liberty and explore the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration to learn about the millions who passed through here seeking a new life in America.
For breathtaking views of the city skyline, head to the Empire State Building's 86th floor observation deck, an open-air wraparound terrace offering 360-degree vistas. Or, for incredible views of the Manhattan skyline and the East River, walk or bike across the Brooklyn Bridge.
Central Park is an oasis in the middle of Manhattan, perfect for walking, biking, or enjoying a picnic on the Great Lawn. Don't miss attractions like Bethesda Terrace and Bow Bridge.
Times Square dazzles with its bright lights and billboards. It's great for people-watching or catching a Broadway show in the Theater District. Be sure to check out the nightly Midnight Moment, when digital displays synchronize to showcase contemporary art.
NYC is known for world-class museums. Art lovers should visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art, while those interested in natural history can explore the American Museum of Natural History. The 9/11 Memorial & Museum is a moving tribute to those lost in the September 11 attacks.
Food scene
New York City is a food lover's paradise, offering an incredible array of cuisines from around the world. From street food to fine dining, there's something to satisfy every craving. Here are some must-try dishes that showcase the city's diverse culinary scene:
Pizza
New York-style pizza is famous for its thin, crispy crust, tangy tomato sauce, and gooey mozzarella cheese. Grab a classic slice at Joe's Pizza in Greenwich Village, which has been serving up perfect pies since 1975. For a coal-oven pizza with a slightly charred crust, head to John's of Bleecker St. Patsy's in East Harlem is another iconic spot, known for its margherita pizza topped with fresh basil.
Bagels and Lox
New Yorkers take their bagels seriously, and the city is home to some of the best in the world. A classic combination is a chewy, hand-rolled bagel topped with silky smoked salmon, cream cheese, tomato, and red onion. Russ & Daughters on the Lower East Side has been a beloved institution since 1914, offering an extensive selection of smoked fish and spreads. Ess-a-Bagel in Midtown East is another top choice, known for its oversized, fluffy bagels.
Pastrami on Rye
This quintessential New York sandwich features tender, juicy pastrami piled high between two slices of rye bread, typically accompanied by deli mustard. Katz's Delicatessen on the Lower East Side is a legendary spot that has been serving up this iconic dish since 1888. The pastrami is cured and smoked in-house, hand-sliced to order, and served with pickles on the side.
Chinatown
Manhattan's Chinatown is a bustling neighborhood filled with restaurants, markets, and street vendors. Explore the area and sample an array of Chinese cuisines, from Cantonese dim sum to fiery Sichuan dishes. Don't miss the xiao long bao (soup dumplings) at Joe's Shanghai, which are filled with hot, savory broth and tender pork. Other must-try dishes include hand-pulled noodles, roast duck, and egg tarts.
Street Food
New York's streets are lined with food carts and trucks offering quick, cheap eats on the go. Halal carts are a popular choice, serving up combo platters with chicken or lamb over rice, topped with white sauce and hot sauce. Gray's Papaya is a beloved hot dog stand known for its classic "recession special" - two hot dogs and a drink for a bargain price. Other street food favorites include soft pretzels, roasted nuts, and grilled corn on the cob.
These are just a few examples of the incredible food options available in New York City. Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite or a multi-course meal, you'll find endless culinary delights to explore in the Big Apple.
Where to stay
New York City has accommodation options for every budget and style:
- Midtown Manhattan is very central and convenient, with a huge selection of hotels, but prices can be steep. It's great for first-time visitors who want to be near top attractions.
- Lower Manhattan puts you closer to downtown neighborhoods and sights. The well-reviewed Artezen Hotel is a solid choice.
- The Upper West Side by Central Park is quieter and more residential. HI NYC Hostel is a good budget option in this area.
- Trendy neighborhoods like SoHo, Chelsea and the East Village have many unique boutique hotels if you want to stay somewhere with more local character.
- To save money, consider the Pod Hotels with compact rooms, the hip Freehand Hotel, or renting an apartment through Sonder. These are good options for budget-conscious travelers who still want to stay somewhere clean and stylish.
No matter where you choose to lay your head in NYC, you'll find a wide variety of accommodation choices to suit your preferences and wallet. Book early for the best rates, especially during peak times.
Yankee Stadium
The New York Yankees are the most successful franchise in MLB history, having won a record 27 World Series championships. The Yankees played at the iconic original Yankee Stadium from 1923 to 2008, before moving to the new Yankee Stadium in 2009. The team has had many legendary players wear the pinstripes over the years, including Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Joe DiMaggio, Mickey Mantle, and Derek Jeter.
Attending a Yankees game in the Bronx is an unforgettable experience. The easiest way to get to the stadium is by taking the subway. The 4, B, and D trains all stop at 161st Street-Yankee Stadium. Once inside, be sure to explore the concession stands that offer diverse food options from classic hot dogs and fries to unique offerings like the Mighty Quinn's BBQ and Lobel's steak sandwiches.
The atmosphere at Yankee Stadium is electric, with passionate fans chanting and cheering traditions like the "Roll Call" at the start of each game. The grounds crew also performs a fun dance to "Y.M.C.A." in the middle of the 7th inning. If the Yankees hit a home run, you'll hear the crowd erupt as the stadium blasts "New York, New York".
If you're visiting New York when the Yankees are on the road or it's the offseason, consider taking a tour of Yankee Stadium. The tours provide a behind-the-scenes look at the ballpark, including visits to Monument Park, the New York Yankees Museum, and even the dugout.
New York is waiting
As this guide shows, New York City truly offers something for every type of traveler visiting North America. From world-class museums and iconic landmarks to diverse cuisine and passionate sports fans, the Big Apple has it all. Visitors can take in the incredible views from the top of the Empire State Building, stroll through Central Park, sample pizza and pastrami, and catch a thrilling Yankees game in the Bronx. With so much to see and do, start planning your trip to New York City today and experience one of the world's greatest cities firsthand. Come discover why so many people fall in love with NYC!
