Your Ultimate NYC To Do List

I’ve been to New York City more times than I can count, and even lived in New York City for a while during the pandemic – making me the perfect digital tour guide for first time travelers going to New York City.

I’ve made trips with my family, with friends, and completely solo to New York City and even lived there alone.

I know the ins and outs of Manhattan like the back of my hand, by this point.

View of the Arc in Washington Square Park in the West Village of New York City

View of the Arc in Washington Square Park in the West Village of New York City; December 2020

Whenever I think (and realize) that someone has never been to New York City before, it blows my mind – because it’s always been in my backyard as long as I’ve lived in the Washington D.C. area.

I have to remind myself to be cognizant that the city (that’s what us hip, cool, daughters-of-New-Yorkers [and actual, legitimate New Yorkers] call Manhattan) isn’t a four-hour bus drive away for the majority of people. 

Especially for people coming to see the city for the first time from abroad.

View of New York City landing at Newark International Airport

View of New York City landing at Newark International Airport; November 2023

I couldn’t imagine only having four (or maybe even less) days to see New York City for the first time… it’s simply not enough time.

One of the many things that’s so great about New York City, is that you can keep visiting and never be bored.

There will always be something else to do.

If you’ve never been to Manhattan before, I already know what’s running through your mind…

… I need to see the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, Times Square…

…and yes – you should see all of those things, but you need to know that there’s so much more to do in this city besides the cliché places garnered towards tourists.

Tips For First Time Travelers to New York City

How Many Days Should I Spend in New York City?

Honestly, if you want to see everything on this list and more while in New York City calmly – you’ll need a minimum of 5 days to do Manhattan the justice it deserves. However, if you cut a few things and move at a torrid pace – I’ve been able to show people the majority of this list with 3 full days in New York City.

Is 3 days enough in NYC?

Three days in New York City is enough to see a lot if you are down for walking and a high-speed vacation, but you won’t be able to do everything you’ve ever heard of doing in New York City. However, if you can – consider spending some more time in New York, as its truly one of the best cities in the world and deserves your time and attention. The best part is, you can always come back to the city that never sleeps – as New York will be waiting for you to return with open arms!

How Much Money Should I Budget For a Trip to New York?

Honestly, I always spend a good chunk of change whenever I visit New York – as all of the food, rooftop bars, and shopping is simply too tempting for me. To be on the safe side, and to truly enjoy New York and all it has to offer – I would average to spend a minimum on $100 a day on food, souvenirs, and excursions – all of which won’t include your airfare or hotel.

Where Should I Stay in New York City?

As someone who has lived in New York City, I recommend first time travelers or tourists in New York City to stay somewhere equally located between Midtown and Lower Manhattan – such as in Flatiron, Koreatown, the Fashion District, or near Herald Square. This will allow you to be walking distance the majority of the things you’ll want to see while you’re in New York.

Approaching Madison Square Park in New York City

Approaching Madison Square Park in New York City; November 2024

You’re not going to check every single one of these off of your list on your very first trip (and if you do, please let me know what kind of coffee you’re drinking and where you bought it in the city so I know for next time), but nevertheless… 

… here it is.

My ultimate list of things to do in New York City:

The Ultimate New York City To Do List

 

1.     Empire State Building

You can decide to go up the Empire State building, but I’ve got a better idea (and a better view) for you…

View of the Empire State Building from 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar in New York City; September 2020

 

2.     Top of the Rock

I went up the observation deck in March of 2018 before I was 21…

View from the Top of the Rock; March 2018

View from the Top of the Rock; March 2018

… and in July 2019 the night I turned 21.

Top of the Rock from the ground; July 2019

Top of the Rock from the ground; July 2019

Is It Worth Going Up the Top of the Rock?

Yes, if you’re going to New York City for the first time – I think going up the Top of the Rock is a good idea, as you’ll get to see sweeping views of the city and learn a little about this iconic building in New York City.

Can I Go up the Rainbow Room or Bar SixtyFive?

As of 2025, Bar SixtyFive is now closed for private reserved events – but if you can manage to someone arrange an event at this iconic rooftop bar, I strongly encourage it – as it has some of the best views of New York City.

I recommend making a reservation at one of the bars at the top; that way – you get the view and a drink for less than the price of the ticket for observation deck alone. 

The smartest way to go to the Top of the Rock.

The smartest way to go to the Top of the Rock.

View of NYC from the Top of the Rock at night

View of New York City from the Top of the Rock at night; July 2019

After all, isn’t the view of the city better when the Empire State building is in it?

3.     Central Park

Personally, Central Park isn’t my favorite park in the city, but you should walk it at least once – especially if it’s your first time in the city, as you’ll probably regonize many movies that have been filmed here and at Bethesda Terrace inside the park.

Central Park in Manhattan with pond and leaves changing

Central Park in Manhattan; November 2024

Where Is The Best Place to Go Ice Skating in New York City?

There are three main rinks to choose from if you want to go ice skating in New York City:

  • Ice Skating at Rockefeller Plaza: Known as the most iconic place in New York City to go ice skating, as you’re underneath the big Christmas tree – this is often the most crowded place, making it better for experienced skaters or die-hard tourists who want the once-in-a-lifetime experience.

  • Wollman Rink in Central Park: This is where I most recently went skating in the city, and it was $27 for general admissions and $12 to rent the skates for our time slot. It was cool to skate underneath the skyscrapers in Central Park, but I personally don’t need to do it again.

  • Bryant Park Winter Village: One of the newer ice rinks in the city, this is perfectly located in Midtown – and the price is around the same of the other two, making it up to personal preference.

I would say if you want to ice skate to skate, choose Wollman Rink as it’s the biggest of the three – otherwise, opt for Rockefeller Plaza or Bryant Park as both are closer to other tourist sites in Midtown to cross off your NYC list.

View of Wollman Rink in Central Park

View of Wollman Rink in Central Park; November 2024

 

4.     Bryant Park

Now, this is my favorite park in the city. It’s charming, full of vibrant florals, music festivals, cute little cafes… 

Inside Bryant Park; August 2018

Inside Bryant Park; August 2018

…when I took one of my friends to it for the first time, she said,

“It’s kind of like a European park…”

It’s in that moment that I realized she was right, and that that was why I had always liked it so much.

Bryant Park in New York City

Bryant Park in New York City; September 2020

Is The Bryant Park Winter Village Worth Visiting?

In short, even though the Bryant Park Winter Village gets crowded with tourists – it’s absolutely worth visiting while you’re in New York City. However, if you’re not a fan of crowds – my local tip is to head down to Union Square Holiday Market.

This is because the vendors are often similar if not the same between Bryant Park Winter Village and Union Square Holiday Market, which means you can explore all the same foods, jewelry, and holiday gifts without the crowds.

View of the Union Square Holiday Market in New York City

View of the Union Square Holiday Market in New York City; November 2023

5.     New York Public Library 

You can go inside for the bookstore, which does have really quirky things to scope out: pocket dictionaries for foreign languages, laughable how to books… you get the picture.

New York Public Library; July 2019

New York Public Library; July 2019

Or, you could go in to see the actual library…

… but I’ve always found that my favorite thing to do here is to take a picture from the steps.

Street view from the New York Public Library; July 2019

Street view from the New York Public Library; July 2019

 

6.     Be in the Audience of an Early Morning Show

My mom and I went to both the Today Show and Good Morning American in 2016. 

You do have to wake up early (you have to be at the studios at either five or six in the morning), but it’s worth it – in fact, my mom and I got picked to go inside for a live performance at Good Morning America. 

No one knew the band playing, but I did…

… let’s just say, I got to talk Fitz and the Tantrums in person and the camera men filmed me multiple times as I was the only one dancing.

 

7.     See a show on Broadway

My mom and I saw the Gloria Estefan show, On Your Feet!  in 2016 and I loved it – and most recently, I saw Wicked in 2023 which was incredible with Mary Kate Morrissey as my Elphaba.

Do I Need to Buy Tickets For a Broadway Show in Advance?

While it’s best to buy the tickets to your Broadway show of choice in advance, you can also buy same-day Broadway tickets – just head to the TKTS booth in Times Square and pick from your wide array of options. 

 

8.     Eat a Slice of Cheesecake at Junior’s

My mom is from Brooklyn; which is where this cheesecake is from.

Classic slice of Junior’s Cheesecake from the 45th street location near Times Square; July 2019.

Classic slice of Junior’s Cheesecake from the 45th street location near Times Square; July 2019

Where Is The Best Slice of Cheesecake in New York City?

Take it from a native New Yorker, the best slice of cheesecake you’ll ever have in your life will be at Junior’s Cheesecake – which is conveniently located in Times Square on 45th and Broadway.

I tried it in 2016, and my best friend just tried it a few weeks ago when I took her to the city.

She concurred as well that not only was it the best cheesecake she’s ever had, but that it’s one of the best things she’s ever had… period.

 

9.     Rockefeller Plaza

Often penned as Rockefeller Center, this is where the majority of people come to ice skate during Christmas time or head up to the “Top of the Rock” for views of Manhattan.

Rockefeller Center; July 2019

Rockefeller Plaza; July 2019

It’s prettiest during Christmas time when the tree is lit up…

The Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Center; December 2014

The Christmas Tree at Rockefeller Center; December 2014

People skating at Rockefeller Center during Christmas time; December 2014

People skating at Rockefeller Center during Christmas time; December 2014

… but it’s worth a walk to see “the rink” any time of year. In the summer, it becomes a café.

Rockefeller Center; July 2019

Rockefeller Center; July 2019

What Can I Do in Rockefeller Plaza?

You can either go ice skating, or head up to the “Top of the Rock” – which is a pricey ticket, but worth doing if it’s your first time in New York City.

View of New York City from the “Top of the Rock”

View of New York City from the “Top of the Rock”; March 2018

What Can I Do with Kids in Rockefeller Plaza in New York?

F.A.O Schwartz is here if you have kids, and if you’re a teenage girl...

… check out the Free People. It’ll probably be the biggest one you’ve ever seen; in true New York fashion. 

 

10.  Walk down Wall street

There’s not much to do there unless for some reason you really want to see the stock exchange; which you totally can. 

It’s mostly office buildings, but I have found that this is my favorite place in the city (so far) for a good cup of black coffee – even the ones from the carts…

… and I don’t think it’s a coincidence that it’s on this street! 

Wall Street in the Financial District of New York City

Wall Street in the Financial District of New York City; December 2020

 

11.  See the Two Bridges

This is a great place to go for pictures, and also to escape the hectic nature of Midtown as a tourist.

 

12.  Tompkins Square Park

When I came here in October of 2017, we ran into a Halloween costume competition…

… for dogs.

You will absolutely never know what ridiculous, entertaining things you will stumble upon in this city. 

 

13.  The East Village

The East Village is grungier, and a little more blue collar than the West Village – making it a nice neighborhood to visit in contrast to the now upscale-vibe of Greenwich Village.

View of New York’s fire escape buildings in the East Village

View of New York’s fire escape buildings in the East Village; September 2020

What Can I Do in the East Village?

In the East Village, you can discover:

  • Tompkin’s Square Park

  • Get a sweet snack from Van Leeuwen Ice Cream

  • Take a walk to the famous “The Strand” bookstore nearby

Where Should I Eat in the East Village?

The East Village is filled with several amazing restaurants and coffee shops, and while it’s hard to list them all – here are a few of my top favorites:

  • MUDSPOT: Probably my all time favorite coffee shop in New York City, MUDSPOT is the epitome of a hole-in-the-wall place – which serves the best maple oat milk lattes and is the perfect place to have brunch with your friends in the city. Just beware, there is minimal seating and this place is always packed – as it’s a local favorite.

  • Superiority Burger: Known for innovative plant-based based dishes and infusing different cuisines together, and plus – the prices aren’t too bad, considering it’s New York.

  • Tompkin’s Square Bagels: Although there are more locations around Manhattan, the flagship location for the best bagel place in NYC deserves a visit while you’re in the East Village.

What’s The Difference Between The West Village and The East Village In New York City?

Although these two neighborhoods in New York City share a name, they aren’t one and the same – as the West Village is more catered towards NYU students or families, and the East Village a grungier version made for Millenials and Gen Z.

🗽 West Village vs. East Village: NYC Neighborhood Breakdown
Category West Village (Greenwich Village) 💅 East Village (Ukrainian Village) 🎸
Vibe Bougie, charming, upscale ✨ Edgy, artsy, grungy-cool 🎨
Cost of Living Very expensive 💸 A little cheaper (for NYC) 💰
Architecture Classic brownstones, cobblestone streets 🏘️ Walk-ups, tenement buildings, more eclectic 🧱
Popular Park Washington Square Park 🎷 Tompkins Square Park 🛹
Nightlife Trendy wine bars & chic spots 🍷 Dive bars, indie music venues, late-night bites 🍕
Locals’ Stereotype Writers, fashionistas, NYU grads 👠 Artists, musicians, students, vintage lovers 👾

14.  Ride the Subway

Personally, the New York Subway is absolutely, without a doubt, the worst subway system I have used in the world.

In the New York Subway Station headed towards Washington Square Park; July 2019

In the New York Subway Station headed towards Washington Square Park; July 2019

It’s muggy down there year-round, the trains can be late, the signage is confusing, and the railways make that awful, shrill sound when the train-tricks make metal-to-metal friction.  

My mom, a native New Yorker – doesn’t even ride the subway. 

She prefers to walk… as do I. 

Ride the subway once, just so you can see what I’m talking about.

Do I Need to Use the Subway in New York City?

Honestly, you can discover the majority of New York City by foot – as long as you’re up for walking. I personally think walking around the city is not only faster than taking the subway, but also allows you to submerse yourself in the rhythm of New York – which can let you have a full, immersive travel experience.

 

15.  Grand Central Station

Gossip Girl? Friends with Benefits?

Odds are, you’ve seen a movie that’s been filmed here at least once.

Inside Grand Central Station in New York City

Inside Grand Central Station in New York City; November 2024

 

16.  St. Patrick’s Cathedral

I can’t help but think of the one I’ve seen in Dublin, now – but this one is still worth a peek inside. 

St. Patrick’s Cathedral in NYC; December 2014

St. Patrick’s Cathedral in NYC; December 2014

17.  Radio City Music Hall

There’s just something about the way the sign lights up against the rainy pavements of New York City, every time…

Radio City Music lit up hall at night, especially in the rain, always captivates me for reasons (still) unknown; July 2019

Radio City Music lit up hall at night, especially in the rain, always captivates me for reasons (still) unknown; July 2019

Can I Go See a Show at Radio City Music Hall?

Yes, not only is Radio City Music Hall iconic from the outside – but you can buy a ticket and see a show inside!

If you want a true New York experience, and you’re visiting during Christmas time – I recommend seeing the Radio City Rockettes.

Radio City Music Hall in New York City; November 2023

 

18.  See a Late-Night Show

I haven’t done this one yet but I’m dying to.

Specifically, I’d love to see a taping of the Jimmy Fallon show. I will report back once I’ve done so because it’s high on my list for next time!

 

19.  Eat at a New York Deli

Everyone’s always talking about the pizza, the pretzels, and the hot dogs… but do you know what else New York is famous for?

Its Deli food.

Eating at the 2nd Avenue Deli; December 2014

Eating at the 2nd Avenue Deli; December 2014

I’ve been to 2nd avenue Deli a few times and can vouch that it’s as good as it looks. 

You just haven’t lived until you’ve had a DIY open faced sandwich in the city. 

 

20.  Walk Down Fifth Avenue

My mom is a big fan of window shopping at Saks and Bergdorf Goodman… so, evidently, every time I’m with her in the city, I tag along.

mannequin in silver dress in window nyc

Window shopping on Fifth Avenue in New York City; December 2014

It is fun to see all of the high-end fashion… and the horrifying price tags that come along with it. 

I will say, it’s the most entertaining to do during Christmas time.

Window shopping on Fifth Avenue in New York City during Christmas time; December 2014

Window shopping on Fifth Avenue in New York City during Christmas time; December 2014

 

21.  Trump Tower

Walking around Midtown for hours at a time, you’re bound to have to use the bathroom at some point. 

Once upon a time, my mother lived in Brooklyn and worked in Manhattan. 

She quickly discovered that Trump Tower was open to the public, and that there was a bathroom inside that she could easily use instead of having to ask at a different café or bar each time. 

Outside Trump Tower; July 2019

Outside Trump Tower; July 2019

Thus, it’s become a tradition over the years – I’ve taken my friends inside for fun, and I always make a point to pee in there every time I’m in the city.

Inside Trump Tower; July 2019

Inside Trump Tower; July 2019

 

22.  Columbus Circle

It’s the coolest traffic circle I’ve ever seen, in the States, and plus – this is one of the entrances you can take into Central Park.

Yellow cab passing by Columbus Circle in New York City grey skies

Yellow cab passing by Columbus Circle in New York City; January 2021

 

23.  Walk the High Line 

Walking the High Line; August 2018

Walking the High Line; August 2018

Is the High Line in New York Overrated?

In my (and my native New Yorker mother’s) opinion, the High Line in NYC is kind of overrated – because the views of the city aren’t that great. However, you should do it at least once if you’ve never done it before – especially so you can end up at the “Vessel” where tourists love to take pictures.

View of the Vessel at Hudson Yards in New York City during Christmas with gold lights

View of the Vessel at Hudson Yards in New York City during Christmas; December 2020

Where Does the High Line Start and End in New York?

The High Line in New York starts at Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking District and ends at Hudson Yards around 30th Street and 10th Avenue – and is around 1.5 miles long from start to finish.

Street view from the High Line; August 2018

Street view from the High Line; August 2018

 

24.  Times Square

If you’re taking non-New Yorker’s with you here: be careful that you don’t lose them.

Unsurprisingly, Times Square can get packed. While it’s unlikely you’ll be pickpocketed here, I would still hold onto your valuables and belongings tight when discovering this part of New York City.

Posters for Broadway shows in Times Square; December 2014

View of near Times Square from the H&M; August 2018

View of near Times Square from the H&M; August 2018

What Is There To Do in Times Square?

Honestly, there isn’t much to see or do in Times Square itself – you’re just going to be amazed by the over stimulation, which is the tourist attraction itself.

I also would not eat in Times Square as your bound to be ripped off and the food is catered to tourists, but feel free to enjoy a New York hot dog or pretzel from one of the carts – as those will be decently priced.

Personally, I like to hop into the Forever 21 in Times Square every time because it’s one of the biggest ones you’ll ever see– it’s got four massive levels inside. 

Here’s my checklist for Times Square:

  • See the the ball drops for New Year’s Eve

  • Take a photo with a character (if you want to, as a native New Yorker I personally avoid this like the plague)

  • Scope out shows on Broadway

Times Square in the rain; July 2019

Times Square in the rain; July 2019


25.  Eat a Slice of New York Pizza

Another thing you must consume while you’re in the city. 

If you’ve found an authentic slice, it should be bigger than your face. 

Where is the Best Slice of New York Pizza?

If you’re looking for a real, authentic slice of New York style pizza – skip the Tik Tok recommendation to head to Joe’s Pizza in Midtown and opt for Ray’s Pizza instead. This is because Joe’s Pizza isn’t the typical, greasy and thin slice that native New Yorkers know and love. There’s a location for Ray’s Pizza near Astor’s Place near 8th Street and 3rd Avenue, and there’s also a Midtown location.

 

26.  Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island 

This usually eats up a whole day, but it’s something everyone should do at least once.

You can catch the ferries to Ellis Island at Battery Park.

The Statue of Liberty in the distance from Battery Park in New York City sunny day

The Statue of Liberty in the distance from Battery Park in New York City; December 2020

 

27.  Washington Square Park

 My second favorite park in the city. Much quieter than the ones in Midtown; usually filled with younger kids as NYU is around the corner.

Washington Square Park; July 2019

Washington Square Park; July 2019

Get ready for all of your Friends dreams to come true.

Is Washington Square Park in New York City Safe?

In recent years when visiting the city, I have found Washington Square Park to be less safe than it was in years past. Therefore, I advise you to be cautious if deciding to walk around the park at night.

 

28.  Madison Square Garden

Around the corner from the Fashion Institute of Technology; it’s fun to say you’ve walked by where all musicians dream of playing. 

Outside Madison Square Garde tall buildings in nyc

Outside Madison Square Garden; November 2022


29.  Eat from a New York Food Cart

My personal favorites have always been the hot nuts and pretzels; but these days… they’ve got anything and everything. 

Heck; I’ve been walking by more Indian and Greek food carts the past couple of years than I have hot dog stands.

NYC food carts set up outside of Grand Central Station with yellow taxi cabs

NYC food carts set up outside of Grand Central Station; November 2023

30.     Shop at the Market at the Theater District

I bought the cutest “pocket clock” necklace here one time.

Great if you’re looking for a non-touristy souvenir. 

You’ll find this small market on around 8th avenue and 46th street – making it the perfect place to visit if you’re walking around or staying in Hell’s Kitchen.

View of Hell’s Kitchen and the Garment District in New York City sunrise

View of Hell’s Kitchen and the Garment District in New York City; September 2020

 

31.  Explore the West Village

The West Village may be very popular with tourists, such as to see the Friends apartment or where Carrie Bradshaw lived on Sex and the City – but it’s also one of my favorite parts of the city.

What Makes the West Village Special?

The ladders of the brick buildings, the quieter streets… it’s one of the only places I’ve found in NYC that has some character, to it. 

Years ago, around the time when Friends aired in the 90s – the West Village was an affordable place to live. Nowadays, it’s considered one of the more expensive neighborhoods in New York City for its quaint, family vibe, classic New York walk-up apartments, and trendy restaurants.

Bedford and Christoper Street in New York City West Village Blue Sunny Day

Walking in the West Village in New York City; November 2022

 

What Should I Do in the West Village?

When in the West Village, here’s what I recommend you see:

  • Bleecker Street: Walking down Bleecker street, while in the West Village is an absolute must – as you’ll get to see all of the cute side streets, cafés, and boutiques the West Village has to offer.

  • Cornelia Street: Essential for any longtime fan of Taylor Swift to see, and even better – the area is actually cute, with several local bars nearby.

  • Friend’s Apartment: Nestled between Bedford and Grove Street, the Friends apartment is iconic if you’re as big of a fan as the 90s show as I am.

  • Carrie Bradshaw’s Apartment: I’m not a fan of the show, but I once took a friend who was – you can find the Sex and the City star’s apartment on 66 Perry Street.

  • Father Demo Square: An underrated square with a view of the Empire State Building in the distance. This makes for the perfect spot to eat a slice of New York Pizza or a Bagel (both of which can be found nearby) and take in the city. I used to come here to write and think all of the time when I lived in the city.

  • Washington Square Park: A student friendly park where dancers, musicians, and other pop-ups often happen.

Father Demo Square in the West Village fountain and colorful buildings

Father Demo Square in the West Village; December 2020

Where Are The Best Places To Eat In The West Village?

As someone who once lived in the West Village, here’s where I recommend eating or getting a cup of coffee:

  • Jajaja: An excellent place for plant-based tacos, brunch, and drinks with friends – tried and true many times and is a place I always return to when I visit New York.

  • 11th Street Cafe: The spot to sit to stare at New York’s fire escapes, have a coffee, and get some remote work done.

  • chloe. : The place to go to fill your sweet tooth when in the West Village. If you’re also into cookies, there’s an Insomnia Cookies on MacDougal Street – which is close to chloe. on Bleecker Street.

west village nyc brick building with camera, journal, granola bar on table

Sitting at 11th Street Cafe in the West Village in New York City; September 2020


32.  9/11 Memorial & Twin Towers

I went to the memorial in March of 2017; it’s actually quite beautiful and worth the trip downtown for. 

 

33.  The Brooklyn Bridge

finally did this for the first time on my 21st birthday after years of coming to New York City.

Me at the Brooklyn Bridge on my 21st birthday; July 2019

Me at the Brooklyn Bridge on my 21st birthday; July 2019

We didn’t walk it all the way across because it was humid and hotter than hell – but it is awesome to see in person.

Where Can I Get The Best View of the Brooklyn Bridge?

Honestly, although the majority of tourists flock to the Brooklyn Bridge on the Manhattan side – it’s much prettier if you head down to Pebble Brook Beach in Brooklyn. Simply take the F Train to York Street – it’s about a five minute walk from the subway station, and you won’t regret it.

View of the Brooklyn Bridge from Pebble Brook Beach in New York City; November 2024

Where in New York City Are the Swings With the View of the Brooklyn Bridge?

The other option is to head down to Two Bridges or Pier 35 – which is where you see everyone on those swings on Tik Tok.

Personally, I think Pebble Brook Beach is better – but if you’re short on time and can’t head all the way down to Brookyln, this will suffice!

View of the Manhattan Bridge and the Brooklyn Bridge from Two Bridges sunny day

View of the Manhattan Bridge and the Brooklyn Bridge from Two Bridges; December 2020

34.  The Chelsea Market 

We all know I’m a sucker for a good food market hall, and this one is nothing short of excellent.

P.S. – be sure to have an oat latte from Bluebottle coffee while you’re here… and then be prepared to never want to drink a latte from anywhere else ever again.

Inside a quiet Chelsea Market during the pandemic; December 2020

35.  DUMBO & Pebble Brook Beach

DUMBO is a neighborhood in Brooklyn that’s a short train ride away from downtown with a stellar view of Manhattan.

I’ve seen several views of New York City at night several times – but this photo spot at Pebble Brook Beach just might go down as one of my all-time favorites. 

The view of NYC at night from DUMBO

The view of NYC at night from DUMBO; September 2020

  

36. soho

I always tell people that the only thing to do in SoHo in New York City is to shop, as you can find practically any store in SoHo – from Target, Nike, Aritzia, and more.

However, SoHo is also gorgeous – and a photographers heaven.

If you’re a fan of Europe’s cobble street stones, you’ll fall in love with the aesthetic of SoHo – even if it isn’t the most livable neighborhood in New York City.

37. flatiron

One of my favorite neighborhoods in all of Manhattan, the Flatiron District is severely underrated – encapsulating both the energy of Midtown and charm of the villages.

View of the old fireescape buildings in flatiron nyc blue sky

View of the old fire escape buildings in Flat Iron in New York City; November 2023

Flatiron, reminiscent of the old architecture in Europe, is one of the best places to stay when visiting New York City, as you’re perfectly located between Lower Manhattan and Midtown, and are near some of my personal favorite places – such as 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar.

38. MoMa

While I myself am not the biggest fan of museums, I have to admit – the Museum of Modern Art in New York City is worth seeing. Now living in Paris, it was cool to see “Starry Night” after having been to Arles in France, where Van Gogh was inspired to paint many of his paintings.

39. gramercy park

I’m not sure what it is about this little pocket of New York City, but it’s so magical in the fall – tucked away from New York’s loud personality and lets hope be heard the loudest.

I always think of the 2014 movie, “That Awkward Moment” where Zac Efron and that blonde character walk through Gramercy Park… where the girl answers… “New York’s charm is letting you believe you can have it.”

40.  Hudson River Park

My cousin who lives in the city took me here in October of 2017, and ever since – it has become one of my favorite parts of New York City.

I had never quite seen the city in this light (both metaphorically and physically) before.

The view of Jersey City from Hudson River Park with sun setting

The view of Jersey City from Hudson River Park; October 2017

In my opinion, the best parts in big cities are the places where you know you’re in the city, but it isn’t obvious. In New York, that spot is Hudson River Pier Park – as you’ll see iconic monuments like the Statue of Liberty, One World Trade Center, and Empire State Building in the distance, but you’re far enough from the chaos of Midtown to breathe in what New York City is really all about… hope.

London is satisfied, Paris is resigned, but New York is always hopeful. Always it believes that something good is about to come off, and it must hurry to meet it.
— Dorothy Parker

Want to see some of my adventures and life in New York City in action? Check out my vlog below!

Want to read more about New York? Click Here.

Last updated: June 9, 2025