Brooklyn Bridge, New York. Photo by Colton Duke, Unsplash

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There is something magical about New York City. From the hustle and bustle of Times Square to the iconic skyline, NYC is a city like no other. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or the hundredth time, it’s guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience.

If you’re looking for a reason to visit the Big Apple, here are the top 10 reasons to make the trip. From world-class museums to unbeatable cuisine to the incomparable nightlife, these are just some of the reasons to visit NYC. Get ready to explore the best of the city, from the iconic landmarks to the hidden gems.

Grand Central Terminal
Grand Central Terminal

10. Grand Central Terminal

The beauty of this famous Beaux Arts building in New York City is not to be missed, whether you arrive by rail or not. Built between 1903 and 1931, Grand Central Terminal is stunning. Take a tour to learn of its history, including its near destruction and restoration. 

Lincoln Center
Lincoln Center

9. Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts

Lincoln Center in NYC is the world’s largest performing arts center (16.3 acres / 66,000 m²) and home to 12 resident arts organizations, including the New York Philharmonic, Metropolitan Opera, The New York City Opera and New York City Ballet. Go watch a performance and also make time for a tour of the center itself.

Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Center

Make sure you see all the sights with a New York Pass by Go City.

8. Ice Skating at Rockefeller Center

A unique and fun winter tradition is to take a whirl on the rink at Rockefeller Center, or just watch the skaters glide by while you sip on hot chocolate.

Empire State Building
Empire State Building

7. Empire State Building

The Empire State Building in a New York City icon. The classic Art Deco architecture of the 102-story Empire State Building makes this yet another icon of NYC. Go up to the 86th floor outside observatory for views of up to 80 miles (130 km). Be sure to bring your camera.

Shopping in New York
Shopping in New York

6. Shopping in New York City

You can find just about anything in NYC, including discount designer clothes, items from all over the world and much more. New York City is a shopper’s paradise.

Planning a last-minute trip to New York?

Top Experiences and Tours in New York:

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Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

5. Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

The symbol of political freedom and democracy is a must-see. Located on 12-acre (48,500 m²) Liberty Island in New York Harbor, the Statue of Liberty was a gift from the people of France. It was dedicated on October 28, 1886, and was designated a National Monument on October 15, 1924. Ellis Island was incorporated as part of the Statue of Liberty National Monument on May 11, 1965. Between 1892 and 1954, approximately 12 million steamship passengers entered the United States through the port of New York at Ellis Island.

Theater in New York City
Theater in New York City

4. Theater in New York City

There are 39 theaters in operation on Broadway today, most packed in a small area called the “Great White Way.” Any visit to the city should contain at least one theater show, whether it’s seeing an edgy new work or a classic piece. Look for discount theater tickets, which are often available.

Museums in New York City
Museums in New York City

3. Museums in NYC

Where to begin? The world-class museums of NYC all clamor for your attention. To start, there’s the American Museum of Natural History, the Museum of Modern Art and, of course, the Metropolitan Museum of Art. A lifetime of visits would still leave you wanting to visit more.

Times Square
Times Square

2. Times Square

This revitalized area of the city was once a place to avoid. No more! Now the heart of NYC is a safe, bustling hive of activity, with huge electronic billboards and lots to do. Visit Toys R Us, Lazer Park, MTV’s Total Request Live (TRL), Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum or the Hard Rock Cafe. Other nearby attractions include the Children’s Museum of Manhattan, the doll store American Girl Place and the Intrepid Sea-Air-Space Museum.

Green Spaces in New York City
Green Spaces in New York City

1. Green Spaces in New York City

Contrary to what you might think, New York City is the greenest city in America. The 843-acre Central Park, the most famous park in the city, is actually only the 5th largest. Jog, walk, bike, in-line skate, horseback ride, ice skate, rent row boats, play basketball, softball, soccer, tennis, enjoy special events and festivals in the city’s 1,700 parks and playgrounds, or just kick back and people-watch.

Make sure you see all the sights with a New York Pass by Go City.

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Author Bio: Kim Foley MacKinnon

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2 Comments

  1. New York City’s charm encompasses iconic landmarks like Grand Central Terminal, the Empire State Building, and cultural hubs such as Lincoln Center and Broadway theaters. Immerse yourself in diverse shopping, explore world-class museums, and feel the vibrant energy of Times Square. Enhance your cultural journey at the Miguel Camarena Art Gallery, adding a unique artistic touch. Amidst the urban hustle, find serenity in green havens like Central Park.