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16 MUST-SEE LANDMARKS of MANHATTAN

What to Know and How to Visit.

ST. PATRICK’S CATHEDRAL

1. ST. PATRICK’S CATHEDRAL

St. Patrick’s Cathedral, a Gothic Revival gem on Fifth Avenue, was completed in 1878. It serves as the seat of the Archbishop of New York and is famous for its twin spires, stunning stained glass, and stunning interior. It attracts millions for both its spiritual significance and architectural beauty.

Visit and take St. Patrick’s Cathedral Tour.

ROCKEFELLER CENTER

2. ROCKEFELLER CENTER

Rockefeller Center is a historic complex of 19 commercial buildings, completed in 1939. Known for its Art Deco architecture, it houses iconic sites like Radio City Music Hall, the ice-skating rink, and the Top of the Rock observation deck. It’s a cultural hub, especially during the holiday season with its famous Christmas tree.

Get the tickets to visit the Top of the Rock Observation Deck.

GRAND CENTRAL TERMINAL

3. GRAND CENTRAL TERMINAL

Grand Central Terminal is a historic Beaux-Arts landmark that opened in 1913. Famous for its celestial ceiling, the terminal features stunning architecture, many innovations and a marketplace. It’s a major transit hub and a symbol of New York City’s rich history and grandeur.

To learn about it, take Grand Central Terminal’s Secrets: A Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour

THE CHRYSLER BUILDING

4. THE CHRYSLER BUILDING

The Chrysler Building, an iconic Art Deco skyscraper, was completed in 1930. Standing 1,046 feet tall, it’s famous for its distinctive terraced crown, adorned with stainless steel arches and ornamentation. Once the world’s tallest building, it remains a symbol of NYC’s architectural elegance and innovation.

You might be interested in the Art Deco and Architecture Landmarks Tour

NEW YORK PUBLIC LIBRARY

5. NEW YORK PUBLIC LIBRARY

The New York Public Library, a Beaux-Arts masterpiece, is one of the world’s largest public libraries. Located at 42nd Street and Fifth Avenue, it features iconic marble lions, a majestic Rose Main Reading Room, and extensive collections of rare books and manuscripts. It’s a cultural and architectural landmark in New York City.

Book your free one-hour building tour highlighting the history, architecture, and collections of this magnificent Beaux-Arts building.

EMPIRE STATE BUILDING

6. EMPIRE STATE BUILDING

The Empire State Building, an iconic Art Deco skyscraper, stands 102 stories tall. Completed in 1931, it was the world’s tallest building for over 40 years! A symbol of New York City’s skyline, it offers breathtaking views from its observation decks, has been featured in countless films, and made famous by King Kong.

Get your Empire State Building Observation Deck Tickets.

BROOKLYN BRIDGE

7. BROOKLYN BRIDGE

The Brooklyn Bridge, completed in 1883, is a historic suspension bridge connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn. An engineering marvel of its time, it’s renowned for its Gothic-style towers and steel cables. A symbol of New York City, it offers stunning views of the skyline and the East River, making it a popular walking path and tourist attraction.

Walking across the bridge is better early in the morning or late at night to avoid crowds. Also, you might want to consider a Brooklyn Bridge and Dumbo Guided Walking Tour

WALL STREET, FEDERAL HALL

8. WALL STR/FEDERAL HALL

Wall Street, the financial heart of New York City, is home to the New York Stock Exchange and symbolizes global finance. Federal Hall, where George Washington took the first presidential oath in 1789, now serves as a museum. This area blends historic significance with modern financial power, attracting visitors worldwide.

Explore the Financial District with the Wall Street Insider Tour

NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE

9. NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE

The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), located on Wall Street, is the world’s largest stock exchange by market capitalization. Founded in 1792, it’s a global financial hub where stocks, bonds, and other securities are traded. The iconic building features a grand facade and is central to the world’s financial markets.

CHARGING BULL

10. CHARGING BULL

The Charging Bull, a striking bronze sculpture by Arturo Di Modica, stands in Bowling Green Park near Wall Street. Installed in 1989, it symbolizes financial optimism and prosperity. Its aggressive stance and dynamic presence make it a popular photo op and emblem of Wall Street’s power and resilience.

TRINITY CHURCH

11. TRINITY CHURCH

Trinity Church, located at the foot of Wall Street, is a historic Episcopal church known for its Gothic Revival architecture and rich history. Founded in 1697, it features a stunning spire and beautiful stained glass windows. The churchyard includes the graves of notable figures like Alexander Hamilton.

STATUE OF LIBERTY

12. STATUE OF LIBERTY

The Statue of Liberty, a gift from France, stands on Liberty Island as a symbol of freedom and democracy. Designed by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi and completed in 1886, the iconic statue holds a torch and tablet, welcoming immigrants and visitors to New York Harbor. It’s a global emblem of liberty and hope.

Get your tickets to visit Lady Liberty

WORLD TRADE CENTER AND 9/11 MEMORIAL

12. WORLD TRADE CENTER AND 9/11 MEMORIAL

The World Trade Center complex, including the 9/11 Memorial, commemorates the 2001 attacks. The Memorial features twin reflecting pools set in the footprints of the original towers, surrounded by bronze panels with victims’ names. The new One World Trade Center stands as a symbol of resilience and renewal.

9/11 Memorial & Museum Timed-Entry Ticket

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14. CENTRAL PARK

Central Park, spanning 843 acres in the heart of Manhattan, is a sprawling urban oasis offering scenic landscapes, tranquil lakes, and iconic landmarks like Bethesda Terrace and Strawberry Fields. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, it provides a natural retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Walk through Central Park with an audio guide – a friendly voice that’ll take you around and tell you stories: Central Park Walk: The Mall, Bethesda Fountain, Strawberry Fields

WASHINGTON SQUARE ARCH

15. GREENWICH VILLAGE, WASHINGTON SQUARE

Greenwich Village, a historic NYC neighborhood, is known for its bohemian vibe, charming streets, and cultural landmarks. The Washington Square Arch, a marble monument commemorating George Washington, stands at the park’s entrance. It’s a hub for arts, music, and vibrant local life in this iconic area.

You will get an excellent feel for this neighborhood walking along Bleecker Street Art Beat: A Pop Culture Journey from East to West Village

TIMES SQUARE

16. TIMES SQUARE

Times Square, known as “The Cross-roads of the World,” is a bustling commercial and entertainment hub in Manhattan. Famous for its bright LED billboards, Broadway theaters, and vibrant atmosphere, it’s a major tourist destination and cultural hotspot, especially renowned for the annual New Year’s Eve ball drop.

For a really memorable experience, See Yourself on a Times Square Billboard for 24 Hours