Manage: 10 Must-Visit Places and 5 to Avoid

Must-Visit Places

1. Central Park

Located in Manhattan, Central Park is an iconic attraction featuring over 800 acres of greenery, lakes, and walking paths. It’s a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a picnic or a leisurely stroll.

2. The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Met is one of the largest and most comprehensive art museums in the world, boasting an impressive collection of over 2 million works. Visitors can explore everything from ancient Egyptian artifacts to modern American paintings.

3. Statue of Liberty

A symbol of freedom and opportunity, the Statue of Liberty is a must-see landmark for any first-time visitor to New York City. Take a ferry to Liberty Island and climb to the top for breathtaking views of the city skyline and harbor.

4. Times Square

The heart of Midtown Manhattan, Times Square is a bustling commercial and entertainment hub featuring bright lights, billboards, and towering skyscrapers. It’s a great place to people-watch and soak up the energy of the city.

5. Empire State Building

A New York City icon, the Empire State Building offers stunning views of the city from its observation deck on the 86th floor. Visitors can also experience an interactive exhibit about the building’s construction and history.

6. The High Line

The High Line is a unique public park built on an elevated rail structure on Manhattan’s West Side. It features landscaped gardens, art installations, and breathtaking views of the city skyline.

7. Brooklyn Bridge

A National Historic Landmark, the Brooklyn Bridge is one of the oldest suspension bridges in the United States. Visitors can walk or bike across the bridge for stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the East River.

8. 9/11 Memorial and Museum

A tribute to the victims of the September 11th terrorist attacks, the 9/11 Memorial and Museum features exhibits about the events of that day and the lives lost. Visitors can also pay their respects at the memorial reflecting pools.

9. The Strand Bookstore

A beloved New York City institution, The Strand is one of the largest independent bookstores in the world. Visitors can browse over 18 miles of books, as well as rare and out-of-print editions.

10. Coney Island

A seaside playground on the southern tip of Brooklyn, Coney Island has been a favorite destination for New Yorkers since the late 19th century. Visitors can ride amusement park rides, stroll along the boardwalk, and enjoy classic American cuisine like hot dogs and cotton candy.

Places to Avoid

1. Times Square Elmo

While Times Square is a popular destination for visitors, beware of the costumed characters who offer to take photos with tourists for money. These individuals can be aggressive and often demand more money than agreed upon.

2. Staten Island Ferry Terminal

The Staten Island Ferry is a great way to see the Statue of Liberty and skyline views for free, but be warned that the ferry terminal itself can be crowded and chaotic.

3. The Sex Museum

While touted as a quirky attraction, the Sex Museum in Manhattan can be uncomfortable and inappropriate for some visitors, particularly families with children.

4. The Diamond District

Located in Midtown Manhattan, the Diamond District is a popular destination for jewelry shopping. However, be cautious of sketchy street vendors and inflated prices.

5. Penn Station

A busy transportation hub located beneath Madison Square Garden, Penn Station is known for its crowds, delays, and general chaos. Try to avoid if possible.

Overview of New York City