Top 5 Must-See Places in New York City for First-Time Visitors

Roody Andral
Oct 31
3 min read

Visiting New York City for the first time is an unforgettable experience. The energy, the skyline, the food — everything feels larger than life. Whether you’re wandering through famous landmarks or uncovering local gems, NYC offers something magical at every corner. To help you make the most of your trip, here are the top 5 places to see in New York City that every first-time visitor should have on their itinerary.

Times Square: The Vibrant Pulse of New York City

If there’s one place that captures the city’s pulse, it’s Times Square. Known as “The Crossroads of the World,” this vibrant intersection is filled with dazzling billboards, street performers, and endless photo ops.

What to do:

Catch a Broadway show at one of the nearby theaters.
Visit after dark to see Times Square’s neon lights at their brightest.
Grab a slice of classic New York pizza and watch the crowds go by.

Pro tip: Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter moment before the city comes alive.

Central Park: Nature's Haven Amidst the City's Hustle

Spanning 843 acres, Central Park offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. It’s one of the most famous urban parks in the world and a must-see for first-time visitors to New York.

What to do:

Rent a bike or take a horse-drawn carriage ride.
Visit Bethesda Terrace, Bow Bridge, and Strawberry Fields.
Pack a picnic and relax by The Lake or the Great Lawn.

Pro tip: Central Park looks stunning year-round, but it’s especially magical in spring (cherry blossoms) and fall (autumn foliage).

Exploring the Symbols of Freedom: The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

No trip to NYC is complete without visiting the Statue of Liberty, the ultimate symbol of American freedom and hope. A short ferry ride from Battery Park takes you to Liberty Island, and nearby Ellis Island offers a moving look into immigrant history.

What to do:

Climb to the Statue’s Crown for unbeatable skyline views (book tickets early).
Explore the Ellis Island Immigration Museum to trace your roots.
Take panoramic photos of Lower Manhattan from the ferry.

Pro tip: Opt for an early morning ferry to avoid long lines and catch the best light for photos.

4. The Empire State Building – A View You’ll Never Forget

Standing tall at 1,454 feet, the Empire State Building is one of the most recognizable skyscrapers in the world. For decades, it has symbolized New York’s ambition and spirit.

What to do:

Visit the 86th-floor observation deck for sweeping views of Manhattan.
Go higher to the 102nd-floor deck for a premium experience.
Stop by at night to see the skyline glow under the city lights.

Pro tip: Buy your tickets online to skip the lines, and check the building’s lighting schedule — the colors often change for holidays and special events.

5. The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) – A Cultural Treasure

Located on the edge of Central Park, The Metropolitan Museum of Art is a world-class destination for art and culture lovers. With over two million works spanning 5,000 years, The Met offers an incredible journey through human history.

What to do:

See masterpieces from Van Gogh, Monet, and Rembrandt.
Visit the Temple of Dendur, an ancient Egyptian temple inside the museum.
Head to the Met Rooftop Garden for art, cocktails, and panoramic park views.