Ten Must-See Highlights in New York City

First up on our list is the High Line, an elevated park built on a disused railway line that stretches over a mile along Manhattan’s West Side. It begins at Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking District and continues north to 34th Street at Hudson Yards. This unique park offers a fresh perspective of the city, featuring beautiful gardens, fascinating art installations, and inviting seating areas along its path. My wife Mardi and I often take a stroll here, enjoying sweet treats from nearby vendors as we soak in the views. Expect to spend about one to two hours wandering this urban oasis!

Next, make your way to Greenwich Village, a neighborhood renowned for its bohemian vibe and historic charm. Begin your adventure at Washington Square Park and admire the iconic arch, where 5th Avenue commences. Grab a coffee at one of the many quaint cafés and meander through the picturesque streets lined with charming brownstones. It’s a haven for architecture and art enthusiasts. Don’t forget to check out the striking Picasso statue located on the grounds of NYU!

At number three, we have the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, a poignant tribute to the lives lost on September 11, 2001. The twin reflecting pools are thoughtfully positioned where the Twin Towers once stood, creating a profound sense of remembrance. Inside the museum, visitors can delve into the events of that tragic day and learn about the resilience of the human spirit. The surrounding area has been beautifully restored and is worth exploring, featuring architectural marvels like One World Trade Center and the striking Oculus. Designed by architect Santiago Calatrava, the Oculus symbolizes peace and hope while serving as a transportation hub and shopping center.

Next, let’s take a ride on the Staten Island Ferry! This free ferry offers stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline, providing an excellent way to experience the harbor without spending a dime. Don’t forget to pack your camera for incredible photo opportunities! The ferry departs from the Whitehall Terminal in Manhattan near Battery Park and arrives at the Staten Island terminal at St. George.

Our fifth destination is the Metropolitan Museum of Art, better known simply as The Met. Home to over two million works of art, it ranks among the largest and most prestigious museums in the world. You can spend an entire day exploring its vast collections, which include everything from Ancient Egyptian artifacts to masterpieces by iconic artists like Picasso, Monet, and Van Gogh.

You can’t visit New York City without spending some time in Central Park, the world’s largest outdoor museum, featuring 141 statues across a sprawling 843 acres. This iconic green oasis is perfect for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or even renting a bike to explore. Be sure to check out the Bethesda Terrace, Bow Bridge, Belvedere Castle, and the Sheep Meadow, which was famously depicted in “Wall Street.” One of our favorites is the elusive Still Hunt—see if you can find him!

For history buffs, particularly fans of Alexander Hamilton, there are several sights worth visiting. Begin with the Hamilton Grange National Memorial in Saint Nicholas Park, where Hamilton’s beautifully restored home allows you to learn about his life and legacy. Next, visit the stunning Alexander Hamilton U.S. Custom House located in lower Manhattan, which houses the National Museum of the American Indian. Then, explore Wall Street—the financial heart of America, where Hamilton established the nation’s financial system. Don’t miss Trinity Church, where Hamilton is buried, and Hamilton Park in Weehawken, New Jersey, commemorates the duel between Hamilton and Aaron Burr, offering picturesque views of the New York City skyline.

No visit to New York is complete without experiencing the magic of a Broadway show! From timeless musicals to captivating dramas, there’s something to suit every taste. Be sure to book your tickets in advance for an unforgettable night of theatre. Rather than relying on the TKTS booth, we find it enjoyable to keep an eye on newsletters and wander the theater district in search of unique shows. Remember, there’s more to Broadway than just the performances—explore the Broadway Museum, too!

At number nine, we recommend venturing off the beaten path to the Tenement Museum located at 109 Orchard Street on the Lower East Side. This museum provides a fascinating look into the lives of immigrants who resided in historic tenement buildings during the 19th and 20th centuries. The guided tours immerse you in the authentic experiences of the past, revealing how ordinary people shaped the city. Don’t forget to stop by Katz’s Delicatessen just three blocks away—it’s open 24 hours, so you can savor a delicious pastrami sandwich whenever you’re hungry!

Lastly, make sure to visit the American Museum of Natural History, home to over 33 million specimens. If you have a passion for dinosaurs, the cosmos, or the ocean, this museum is a must-see. With one of the most impressive collections of dinosaur fossils in the world, you’ll be awestruck standing beneath the towering T. rex skeleton and exploring exhibits that span millions of years. The butterfly exhibit is also a beloved highlight! Plan your visit, as it can get crowded and there’s a lot to take in.