New York is an amazing city, where even a small side street can attract the attention of thousands of tourists. There are so many iconic places here that once in this metropolis, it can be difficult to determine the route. However, there are several attractions in New York that deserve special attention.
1. Ellis Island
In a metropolis jam-packed with iconic landmarks, no place symbolizes the spirit of the great melting pot like Ellis Island. Between 1892 and 1954, this site, located in New York Harbor off the southern tip of Manhattan, became the gateway to America for more than 12 million immigrants hoping to start their lives anew.
Visitors to Ellis Island can get a complete picture of the experiences and difficulties faced by the immigrants through the recordings of passengers, interviews they gave upon arrival on the island, and surviving exhibits of clothing and luggage.
2. Central Park
Central Park Photo: Anthony Quintano from Hillsborough, NJ, United States / Wikimedia Commons
The park, which has appeared in more than 350 films and covers an area of about four square kilometers, is one of the most serene places in New York.
Here you can relax on manicured green lawns, go jogging along kilometers of mixed trails, rent a bike or boat and find many other activities.
3. River Park
This longest coastal park in the United States is the best vantage point for observing the daily life of New Yorkers. Situated close to historic piers, it serves as a common backyard and resting place for metropolitan residents. In River Park, play sports, play golf, go kayaking or simply enjoy the view of the picturesque waterfront.
4. Museum Mile
The scenic stretch of 5th Avenue, which stretches along Central Park from 82nd Street to 105th Street, contains more art treasures than any other place in America. Here are 10 New York museums, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Guggenheim Museum, the New Gallery and others.
5. Empire State Building
Empire State Building Photo: Anthony Quintano / Wikimedia Commons
The Empire State Building attracts tourists not only with its magnificent Art Deco architecture, but also with stunning views from the observation decks located on the 86th and 102nd floors. However, to get to them, you will have to stand in a long queue, or reserve a pass in advance.
6. Rockefeller Center
Another masterpiece of Art Deco architecture, Rockefeller Center. Opened in 1933, it became a city within a city. It is home to NBC TV studios, renowned restaurants, a seasonal ice rink and a world famous Christmas tree. In addition, there are three viewing platforms, including an open-air terrace on the 70th floor.
7. National September 11 Memorial & Museum
The National 9/11 Memorial and Museum are located at the site of the destruction of the World Trade Center Twin Towers. The memorial complex was created in memory of the victims of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 and February 26, 1993 and consists of two huge pools surrounded by trees.
8. Brooklyn Bridge
Brooklyn Bridge Photo: Postdlf / Wikimedia Commons
Built in 1883, the steel suspension bridge was an engineering marvel of its time. He connected Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn. Today, one of the most famous bridges in the world is the place where people come to enjoy breathtaking views of the city.
9. Chinatown
Sometimes moving from one area of New York to another can be compared to a visit to a new country. This is especially felt when entering a busy Chinatown.
In Chinatown, under numerous signs with Chinese characters, there are shops with Chinese food, fish and vegetable markets, jewelry stores and trinket kiosks and other establishments offering visitors a variety of services.
10. Times Square
The history of Times Square began in 1904 with a billboard illuminated by electric lights. A century later, the square has become a tourist attraction, visited by tens of millions of tourists every year. It is always noisy and crowded here, but travelers who find themselves in New York should see Times Square, especially at night.
