Welcome to the the city that never sleeps! We know it, we've seen it in films, seen images of its streets in books, and yet, when we see its skyline, we're astonished. For the city is a treasure trove at any time of day, in any place. Although winters are harsh, summers scorching and rents overpriced, New Yorkers will tell you that paradise is a colossal concrete city called New York. And for good reason: this megalopolis is home to the world's finest museums, one of the world's most photographed skylines and a population of a thousand and one origins. Get ready for a wild ride among 8 million souls, because New York will sweep you away in its whirlwind! It's not a city you'll discover, but an endearing Goliath of stone who never stops trying to outdo himself!
1. Times Square and Broadway
One of the city's best-known districts! With its huge billboards, theaters and unique atmosphere, Times Square is one of New York's must-sees! And yet, until the early 1990s, this district was mainly made up of strip clubs and drug dealers... Today, Times Square's past is hardly perceptible, so much has changed in such a short space of time. No longer do drug dealers roam the streets, but more than 330,000 visitors a day. All in all, some 40 million tourists come here every year to gaze up at the bright skyline. Times Square is also a worldwide landmark for fans of musicals: on Broadway, you can see the most famous shows, such as The Lion King and Mamma Mia. 365 days a year! If you're looking for an efficient way to visit New York, click here to book your seat on a multi-stop bus through Times Square!
Not sure what to see on Broadway? Discover the 10 best Broadway musicals to see in New York!
daniele Cati - Iconotec
2. Metropolitan Museum of Art
Founded in 1870, the Metropolitan Museum of Art was then just a tiny building. Today, it's one of the most beautiful museums in the world! Legend has it that it takes a lifetime to discover all the works housed here! A legend that must be true, given the museum's wealth of past treasures. As you walk, 5,000 years of history unfold, with each region of the world exhibiting its chronicles: Asia, the Orient, Europe, South America, Oceania, nothing escapes the museum. Egyptian antiquities give way to the world's second-largest collection of Greek art. Incredible! At the end of your visit, don't forget to visit the museum's various stores. Reproductions are available at affordable prices! Finally, don't hesitate to sip a coffee on the Roof Garden terrace, which offers a magnificent view of Central Park. Book your guided tour of the Metropolitan Museum here.
3. Ellis Island
Reopened in 1990, the buildings of Ellis Island are a historical gem for the United States. And with good reason! More than 12 million immigrants have crossed the island's threshold! Today, around half of New York's population is descended from these immigrants. In the main hall, a multitude of trunks and suitcases reflect the spirit of these former expatriates, some of whom fled poverty and European oppression. For some, it was a journey of no return in search of the famous American dream. In addition to a screening of the film Island of Hope, Island of Tears, visitors can wander through some 30 galleries featuring objects from everyday life. Last but not least, visitors can see the famous American Immigrant Wall of Honor. More than 600,000 names of former immigrants made famous by their descendants appear on this board, including Kennedy's. One of the best ways to visit Ellis Island is to opt for a guided tour of the island book here your advance guided tour of Liberty Island and the Statue of Liberty!
Ellis Island © pisaphotography - Shutterstock.com4. The Empire State Building
When it was built in 1930, the Empire State Building was the tallest building in the world. This magnificent New York Art Deco building is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World by the American Society of Civil Engineers. Today, it is the second tallest building in New York City, with 20,000 people working in it every day. The building's main attraction is its open-air observatory on the 86th floor. 3.8 million visitors come here to enjoy the best panoramic view of Manhattan. You'll have to be patient to get to this breathtaking view. Our advice is to get there at 11 p.m., as it's much less crowded and the view of New York at night is mythical! Click here to and book your ticket for theEmpire State Building now!
5. Statue of Liberty
Also known as "Liberty Enlightening the World", this is the symbol of New York! Offered by the French as a sign of fraternity to the Americans, it should be remembered that the grande dame of New York was originally destined for the city of Alexandria! This symbol of freedom throughout the world bears the features of the mother of Frédéric Bartholdi, its creator. Built between 1874 and 1886, the statue was used as a lighthouse while it was being erected! Gigantic up close, you can enjoy a pleasant view of New York harbour and its tall buildings. If you want to get to the top of the statue, you'll need to be patient and lucky, as the crown is very popular with tourists. Our tip: book online! If you'd like to get a close-up view of theStatue of Liberty,book youryour sightseeing cruise!
6. New York Public Library
This is one of the city's most beautiful buildings, and one of the largest public libraries in the world. Built in 1911, two sculpted lions guard the grounds of this sanctuary of knowledge. On the first floor, you'll find the Newspaper Room, with over 10,000 periodicals in 22 different languages! Linger over the frescoes depicting New York's most beautiful buildings. On the top floor, the Rose Main Reading Room is an architectural apotheosis. This majestic room is also famous for having been featured in numerous American films, including Ghostbusters and Breakfast at Tiffany's. A guided tour of the library is available, and many cultural events take place here. A must for book lovers and the curious!
7. MoMA
The world's leading museum of modern art! It boasts the greatest masterpieces of modernism and intensely rich pictorial and graphic collections. In fact, 150,000 works are on display. From Picasso and Matisse to renowned photographers and famous architectural designers, all the greats have their place at MoMA. The exterior is also home to some fine works, including sculptures by Rodin and Matisse. Our advice is to start your visit on the5th floor, so you can follow the chronological order of modernism. The 6th floor is devoted to temporary exhibitions, which are generally well-stocked and well worth a visit in themselves. With your admission ticket, you'll be able to watch the featured films of the day. MoMA is also New York's film library! It houses over 10,000 films! If you'd like to prepare your visit as well as possible, we recommend our dedicated article: Visiting New York's MoMa: ticket prices and what you need to know!
8. Central Park
The lungs of New York. There's nothing natural about this lush green space! In fact, it was landscape architects Frederick Olmsted and Calvert Vaux who designed this vast green setting. It took 20 years and over 10 million railcars of natural materials to complete the project. Central Park is an integral part of New Yorkers' daily lives. It's a rich socio-cultural mix where you can see what life is like for Americans in their spare time. Here, sport and relaxation are the order of the day! Cycling, rollerblading or jogging accompanied by an MP3 player remain the sports activities of choice. When it comes to well-being and relaxation, you can stroll along the lake or picnic on the lawn. In this authentic atmosphere, you may also come across free cultural performances: plays, concerts and much more! And there's nothing like a bike ride to enjoy Central Park to the full, click here to to book your bike tour!
9. World Trade Center Site - Ground Zero
September 11, 2001 left a lasting impression on American culture. More than fifteen years later, a strange atmosphere still reigns in this district, with numerous barricades and police officers watching every corner. This highly secure area has become a place of recollection, and is gradually being rebuilt. In fact, the entire project will not be completed until around 2020! Six towers will be built around the Memorial Center. One of them, currently complete, is One World Trade Center. At 509 metres, it is the tallest tower in New York! Since 2015, access to the 102ndfloor has been open to the public. But watch out for the elevator! You're bound to gag, as the speed of the elevator is quite impressive!
We advise you to book in advance right here your ticket to the September 11th Memorial and Museum to avoid waiting at the entrance.
10. Attend a basketball game at Madison Square Garden
Madison Square Garden is famous for hosting some of New York's must-see sporting events! Basketball fans or not, seeing a game in New York is a true immersion in American culture! The Knicks, the city's NBA team, put on a real show every time they play at Madison Square Garden, the legendary venue they've called home since 1946 in the heart of Manhattan. Hot dogs, cheering fans, cheerleaders and fingers emblazoned with the team's logo: nothing is missing from the decor for a supercharged atmosphere! Discover our dedicated article"How to buy tickets for the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden".
Are you a fan of sports culture in the United States? Discover our articles " How to buy tickets for the Yankees in New York", "How to buy tickets for the New York Summit" and " How to buy tickets for the New York Rangers"
11. The Highline, New York-style hanging gardens
High above the Chelsea and Meatpacking neighborhoods, the Highline is a disused railroad line that has now been rehabilitated as an urban park. At 10 m above ground, a carpet of multicolored flowers unfurls when the sun comes out, making this former freight line more than enjoyable. The view of the Hudson River and Midtown buildings is breathtaking. The ideal spot for a stroll or picnic, after a visit to Chelsea Market!
12. Rockefeller Center and its Top of the rock
Rockefeller Center is one of New York's busiest centers. In the Midtown district, its nineteen towers, home to television studios, news agencies, banks and boutiques, are in constant motion. One of Rockefeller Center's flagship buildings is the Top of the Rock. The panoramic veranda on its 70th floor offers a view at least as beautiful as that of the Empire State Building!
13. Wall Street, bull and stock market
New York's financial power is concentrated on Wall Street, the stock exchange district. One of its symbols, installed in Bowling Green Park, is the charging bull, a bronze bull weighing over three tons and preparing to charge. The artist Arturo di Modica himself placed the bull in front of the Stock Exchange in 1989, as a symbol of fighting spirit following the stock market crash of 1987. Legend has it that touching his testicles will bring luck and wealth! Book yourto make sure you don't miss any of the action on Wall Street!
14. Grand Central Terminal, an incredible thoroughfare
Completed in 1913, Grand Central Terminal was restored in 1998 at the instigation of Jackie Onassis. This majestic building sees many commuters pass through on their way to the New York suburbs. Before catching your train, admire the star-spangled ceiling, the spectacular facade adorned with statues and enjoy re-enacting cult scenes from the many films that have been shot at Grand Central Terminal: from Madagascar to The Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind . Click here to and take a self-guided tour of Grand Central Terminal!
15. Brooklyn Bridge, the gateway to New York
One of New York's landmarks,the Brooklyn Bridge is an architectural marvel that links Manhattan Island to Brooklyn. Completed in 1883, it was once the longest suspension bridge in the world. With its distinctive Gothic towers and steel cable deck, the bridge offers spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty and the East River. Pedestrians, cyclists and motorists can all use it, making it a must for tourists and locals alike. It's also the perfect place for a picturesque stroll at sun rise, as the colors are sublime and illuminate the buildings: the ideal spot for a souvenir photo! When crossing the bridge, be sure to use the pedestrian walkway, as traffic is relentless.
16. Chinatown and Little Italy, a change of scenery guaranteed!
In southern Manhattan, mainly around Canal Street, Chinatown offers a veritable journey to China, from its statue of Confucius to its stalls selling Asian products. To better understand the neighborhood's history, it's worth visiting MoCa, the Museum of Chinese America. Not far from Chinatown, the Little Italy district, located mainly on Mulberry Street, is the gateway to Italy. Don't hesitate to try a good pizza!
17. The hamburger, an American delicacy
Going to New York without enjoying a hamburger would be a big mistake! In fast-food outlets and gourmet restaurants, you'll find them on every street corner: it's one of the most popular dishes eaten by New Yorkers. The portions are oversized, the sauce and soda flowing, but it's a real pleasure to bite into these sandwiches every time! Among our favorites is Shake Shack and its delicious fries. The most legendary kiosk is in Madison Square Garden Park.
18. A gospel choir in Harlem
To the north of Manhattan, Harlem is today a dynamic neighborhood where music and creativity take pride of place. Every Sunday, gospel services draw large numbers of worshippers and visitors. Good spirits and energy are the order of the day, but it's important to remember that this is above all a time for meditation, and photography is forbidden. Respect is the key to enjoying the splendid songs sung by the faithful. Book here your Harlem tour including a gospel mass!
19. Greenwich Village, cradle of New York counterculture
Always bustling, Greenwich Village is Manhattan's artists' den. Whether it's music, dance or painting, its charming streets are home to the crème de la crème of creativity. It's one of the few neighborhoods where buildings haven't yet invaded the landscape and streets aren't laid out in a straight line, giving it all the trappings of a village in the heart of New York.
20. Visit the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
You've probably heard of it, it's white and round: if the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum is one of our top 10 museums to visit in New York, it's not for nothing! This museum with its strange cylindrical structure is home to some of Malevich's finest paintings and architectural works, and is today an international franchise for contemporary art. It all started with Solomon R. Guggenheim, a wealthy collector of works by European painters, which he exhibited in his Plaza Hotel apartments to an audience shocked by the abstract avant-garde. Among the artists were Léger, Mondrian, Klee, Chagall and Kandinsky, the last two forming the core of the museum's permanent collection, as well as works by Van Gogh, Degas and a few Picassos. A great visit for lovers of modern and contemporary art, because in addition to its collections, the Guggenheim is also worth a detour to admire its architecture! Click here to book your ticket to the Guggenheim Museum and avoid the wait at the entrance.
Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum - ©vacant Adobe Stock21. Stroll through the West Village
This is a unique place in New York , where everything seems calmer, smaller and more peaceful. Take a stroll through the winding streets, staircases, tiny sidewalks and "little" houses of the West Village neighborhood, which was a source of inspiration for the Beat Generation and folk musicians alike. We recommend strolling through this part of the city, which offers a completely different take on New York: you'll discover human-scale neighborhoods where locals walk their dogs with a cup of coffee in hand. Before venturing south of 14th Street and west of Fifth Avenue, take the time to sample the signature dishes of this cultural enclave. Then, simply stroll among the charming homes, eclectic boutiques, legendary bars, cafés and stores, including White Horse Tavern, Corner Bistro and Murray's Bagels. If you're a TV show junkie, head for the Village, where you'll find the Friends building and Carrie's apartment in Sex and the City!
Houses in New York's West Village © jonbilous - Adobe Stock
22. Shopping on 5th Avenue
Wondering what must-do in New York? 5th Avenue is the perfect place to go shopping. Often compared to the Champs-Élysées in Paris, this upscale avenue is home to some of the city's most prestigious boutiques: it's here that you'll find the names of the biggest luxury brands. Stretching from northern Manhattan to Washington Square Park, you can also take the opportunity to visit some of New York's must-see landmarks, such as the Empire State Building, St. Patrick's Cathedral and Rockefeller Center. And who knows, maybe you'll even bump into a celebrity?
5th avenue ©deberarr - Adobe Stock23. Take a break on Coney Island
If you're looking for a little break during your visit to the Big Apple, we recommend a day trip to Coney Island. Located a 45-minute subway ride from midtown Manhattan, it's New York's legendary beach . The atmosphere is such that you'd think you'd stepped back in time to the 60s, thanks in no small part to Coney Island's trademark funfair, where you can find the world's smallest woman, the world's biggest rat, the headless woman and, of course, the famous Wonder Wheel, the 103-year-old Ferris wheel listed as a New York City landmark. You can take a lovely stroll along the waterfront before sampling New York's best hotdog at Nathan's restaurant, located opposite the subway station. The best way to enjoy this place is to reserve here this 4-hour pass for unlimited rides at Coney Island's Luna Park
24. Visit the Intrepid Sea-Air-Space Museum
New York'sIntrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is a must-see for fans of military history, aviation and space exploration, offering a unique and immersive experience. The museum is located aboard the USS Intrepid, an Essex-class aircraft carrier that served in World War II and the Vietnam War. You can explore the ship's interior, visit the sailors' quarters, discover the interactive exhibition rooms and even climb aboard the authentic warplanes on display on the flight deck. The museum houses a vast collection of military aircraft, warships and space objects, including the legendary SR-71 Blackbird spy plane, the USS Growler nuclear submarine, and the Enterprise space shuttle, which tell the story of American military technology and space exploration. You can combine your visit to the museum with a stroll along the Hudson River Promenade offering breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline for a day rich in experiences!
Take advantage of our partner's by booking here your admission to the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum.
25. Visit the American Museum of Natural History
Built around 1860 and located on the western flank of Central Park, New York's Museum of Natural History is one of the most extraordinary museums in the world, and a magical place to bring your children during your stay in New York. It's a magical place to bring your children when you're in New York. This is the time to discover the main mammals of North America, recreated life-size in panoramic niches that recreate their environment. You'll also see extraordinary collections devoted to Eskimos, Indians, Asian, African, Oriental and Central American cultures. Don't miss the meteorite halls, the fabulous collection of precious stones and the world's largest sapphire. On the 4th and top floor are skeletons of dinosaurs, mammoths and flying reptiles, many of which were brought back from museum-sponsored expeditions to the Gobi Desert. in the Hall of the Universe, visitors can consult the astrobulletin, a screen on which images of Nasa's observations from spacecraft are projected, and see images of the Willamette meteor, the largest discovered in the USA. All in all, there are some 34 million pieces to see, so plan to spend some time there!
Book your ticket for your admission ticket to the permanent exhibits and a special exhibition.
26. Visit the New York Transit Museum
The New York Transit Museum is a museum dedicated to the New York subway and, more generally, to the city's public transport system. It is housed in the former Court Street subway station, abandoned in 1946. The highlight of the show are the old subway cars that can be entered, including a vintage 1907 car with woven rattan chairs. Make sure you don't miss the museum entrance, which looks like a normal subway station going underground! There are plenty of activities for children too.
27. Visit Saint Patrick's Cathedral
The seat of the Archdiocese of New York, Saint Patrick's Cathedral appears to date back to the Middle Ages, but was actually built between 1858 and 1879. St. Patrick's Cathedral on Fifth Avenue may seem small among the skyscrapers that surround it, but it is nonethelessthe largest Gothic Catholic church in the United States . Its interior, illuminated by candles reflected in the 71 stained-glass windows and large rose window, is magnificent. Even though it's very busy, the cathedral gives an incredible sense of calm right in the heart of the hive of activity that is the Rockefeller Center area. It was here that F. Scott Fitzgerald, the famous author of Gatsby the Magnificent , married his wife, Zelda, in 1920. If you happen to be here during the great Irish festival of St. Patrick's Day, make sure you stop by - it's an event you'll want to experience at least once in your life in the USA!
28. Helicopter flight over Manhattan
When visiting the city that never sleeps, an unforgettable experience not to be missed is a helicopter flight over Manhattan. Nothing can match the breathtaking views you'll get as you soar over the Big Apple's iconic skyscrapers. From the air, you can admire the majesty of the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge spanning the East River, and the incredible Manhattan skyline. This adventure gives you a unique perspective on the city's landmarks, and lets you capture breathtaking photos. Several companies offer helicopter tours of varying lengths, so you can choose the one that best suits your schedule. Take a look at our selection of the best helicopter tours in Manhattan. Whether it's for a special occasion, a marriage proposal or simply for an extraordinary experience, flying over Manhattan in a helicopter will undoubtedly remain one of the most magical moments of your trip to New York.
And if you'd like to see New York from above, and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Big Apple and the neighborhoods of Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens or the Bronx, we recommend a drink high up on a rooftop. Discover our dedicated article on the 15 best rooftops for a drink in New York !
29. Spend an evening in a jazz club
Spending an evening in a jazz club in New York is a must for music lovers and visitors to the Big Apple. Indeed, New York is one of the world's most emblematic cities when it comes to jazz, having witnessed the birth and evolution of many of the genre's great artists. When you visit a jazz club, you're following in the footsteps of jazz legends such as Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington and Miles Davis, and you can feel the city's authentic musical heritage. Jazz clubs in New York are often small venues offering a warm, intimate atmosphere. Clubs are ideal places to discover new talent and enjoy the variety of jazz styles, from bebop to cool jazz to contemporary jazz, on offer.
New York City Pass or New York Pass: which to choose?
The New York City Pass and the New York Pass are two popular tourist packages that offer visitors the chance to discover many of New York City's iconic attractions at a discounted rate. Both of these tourist cards are very popular in New York, but they work differently, and your travel plans will determine which option is best for you. If you're not sure whether to use the New York Pass or the New York City Pass, we recommend you read our article: New York City Pass or New York Pass: which is more practical?
Where to sleep in New York?
New York is a destination of choice for travelers from all over the world, with a multitude of accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets. Here is a selection of three hotels to suit your needs:
- For small budgets
The POD 51 is a comfortable hotel offering excellent value for money. It is located not far from Rockefeller Center and Central Park, and boasts 350 fully-equipped, personalized rooms. If you would like to book a room at this hotel,please click here!
- For a musical stay
The Evelyn is a vintage hotel with beautiful, spacious rooms. Each room is equipped with a gramophone that can be connected to with a smartphone. The establishment is located next to the street that was home to the great music studios of the late 19th century. To book one or more nights,click here!
- For a unique experience
The Library Hotel is a small boutique hotel offering literary immersion. Housed in a former manor house, it is designed as a library, with over 6,000 books on display.Click here toto check availability!
If you're planning a trip to New York this Christmas, check out our dedicated article on the new York must-sees at Christmas !
What unusual things to do in New York?
New York is a city where the unusual is around every corner. Here are a few unusual things to do in the city:
- Dinner in the Dark. Several restaurants in New York offer Dinner in the Dark experiences, where you can enjoy a full meal without being able to see what you're eating, thus stimulating your other senses.
- Visit Sleepy Hollow, located a short train ride from New York City. You can explore Sleepy Hollow, made famous by the legend of the head without a body. The town offers guided tours and themed events around this legend.
- Visit Obscura Antiques and Oddities, a store in the East Village featuring a fascinating collection of strange and bizarre objects, from taxidermy to medical curiosities.
- Enjoy an immersive experience at the Museum of Illusions, featuring interactive exhibits and optical illusions that challenge your perception of reality.
What's free to do in New York?
New York offers many free activities for visitors. Here's a list of activities you can enjoy without spending a penny:
- Central Park: Explore the famous Central Park by strolling, picnicking, cycling or admiring the street performances.
- Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge: You can walk across the Brooklyn Bridge for a magnificent view of Manhattan and Brooklyn.
- Staten Island Ferry: Hop aboard the Staten Island Ferry for a breathtaking view of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and the Manhattan skyline. The ferry is free and operates 24 hours a day.
- Free museum visits: Many of New York's renowned museums offer free admission hours or days. For example, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) offers free admission on Friday evenings.
- Walk on the High Line: The High Line, a suspended linear park, is free and offers superb views of the city, gardens and works of art.
- Visit the New York Public Library: Explore the majestic New York Public Library on 5th Avenue. The interior architecture is magnificent.
- Stroll through iconic neighborhoods: Stroll through iconic neighborhoods such as Times Square, Greenwich Village, Chinatown and SoHo, where you can admire local architecture and culture for free.
