Introduction to New York’s Most Iconic Landmarks

24 July 2025 | Latest News

New York City (NYC) in the USA is all about culture, business, and innovation, and is home to some of the most iconic landmarks here. Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and Brooklyn Bridge are just a few of them. Also famous as “The City that Never Sleeps” or “The Big Apple”, it is recognized as one of the most popular and visited cities across the globe. There is something to offer to everyone here, and once you reach here, you will feel the difference yourself.

Come across some of the most amazing vistas and insta-worthy spots, that you might have seen before in movies or TV shows. The city itself is a true global melting pot as people from various walks of life work and celebrate their traditions here.

That’s not the end to this electrifying city with unending energy and opportunities for everyone; its iconic landmarks serve as the best places that define the identity of this place and attract millions of tourists each year. Whether you are travelling to NYC for the very first time or are just curious about what’s more to offer in this incredible city, here is your quick guide to the best landmarks in New York City to explore during your USA holidays:

1. The Statue of Liberty

The top attraction of NYC that instantly pops into your mind once you hear of the city is The Statue of Liberty, which is considered as the symbol of freedom here. No matter how long or short your trip is, if you haven’t visited this place, then your New York holidays are surely incomplete. The statue stands tall and firm on Liberty Island in New York Harbour and serves as an ambassador and true representative of freedom, hope, and democracy.

You can reach here from Battery Park to Liberty Island via a ferry ride. To learn more about the history, get inside the Statue of Liberty Museum. Catch the best views of the city from the crown. Don’t forget to visit the Immigration Museum in Ellis Island for the most enriching experiences.

Highlights

• The statue was given as a gift from France to the US in 1886.
• It was designed by Frederic Auguste Bartholdi and the metal framework was built by Gustave Eiffel.
• The statue stands 305 feet high above the group and its crown has seven rays that depict the world’s seven continents.

2. Times Square

This place is the main reason behind why NYC is famous as the city that never sleeps. The overall sizzling energy at Times Square, its bright lights, massive billboards, street performers, and crowds from all over the world are one of the top reasons that make this place a must-visit spot. To get the perfect neon effect, you need to visit it at night. Catch a seat on the red stairs located above the TKTS booth and brace yourselves for the best night views.

Highlights

• Located at Broadway and Seventh Avenue.
• Home to the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop, seen by millions.
• Famous for its Broadway theatres, restaurants, and shopping.
• Open 24/7 with endless activity.

3. Central Park

Located in the middle of the city, Central Park serves as a huge green space that stretches over 843 areas in Manhattan and serves as a serene spot for taking a break from the city’s bustle. All you need to do when you reach here is to rent a bike or take a carriage ride, enjoy boating or picnicking on The Lake, and attend free concerts or Shakespeare in the Park during summer.

Highlights

• Bethesda Terrace and Fountain
• The Great Lawn
• Strawberry Fields (a tribute to John Lennon)
• The Central Park Zoo
• Bow Bridge (a popular photo spot)

4. Empire State Building

The towering wonder in NYC serves as a perfect testament to fine architecture and attracts millions of tourists each year. Its construction got completed in 1931 during the Great Depression and it remained the tallest building in the world for more than 40 years, with two observation decks on the 86th and 102nd floors. The Empire State Building was also featured in stellar movies such as King Kong and Sleepless in Seattle.

Highlights

• Breathtaking views, especially at sunset or night.
• Learn about the building’s history in the interactive exhibits.
• Don’t forget to take a photo with the Art Deco lobby.

5. Brooklyn Bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge is an architectural marvel that connects Manhattan and Brooklyn and offers some of the best walking and biking paths in the city. To catch the best views, you must visit early in the morning or before sunset. In this way, you can not only manage to get fewer crowds but also great photo opportunities.

Highlights

• It was opened in 1883 as the world’s first steel-wire suspension bridge.
• Incredible views of the skyline.
• A symbol of innovation and progress in American history.

6. One World Trade Centre & 9/11 Memorial

The One World Trade Centre, also called the Freedom Tower, provides insights into the past and serves as the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. It stands at 1776 feet, which symbolizes the year of US independence. Overall, the place serves as a great point for reflection and to honour those who lost their lives in the 9/11 incident.

Highlights

• Symbolizes resilience and rebuilding
• Built near the site of the original Twin Towers.
• Houses the One World Observatory for panoramic views.
• 9/11 Memorial
• Features two large reflecting pools in the exact footprints of the fallen towers.
• The 9/11 Museum tells the story of that tragic day with photos, videos, and recovered artifacts.

7. The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met)

This museum is one of the most famous and largest ones in the world, with Met Cloisters- a separate branch for medieval European Art, dedicated in Upper Manhattan.

Highlights

• Over 2 million pieces of art.
• Galleries that range from ancient Egyptian mummies to European masterpieces.
• Rotating exhibits
• Family-friendly activities.

8. Rockefeller Centre

This site is famous for non-stop fun and stunning views of the city. Overall, this place is a historic complex that brims with culture, history, shopping, and lots of sightseeing opportunities for everyone. If you want to visit the seasonal ice-skating rink here, then you must plan your NYC holidays from October to March.

Highlights

• Top of the Rock Observation Deck
• Catch fantastic views from the deck, including those of the Empire State Building.
• Radio City Music Hall is also located here, that serves as an iconic performance venue.
• One can also visit The Rockefeller Plaza Christmas Tree which is a must-see attraction during the holidays.

9. The High Line

Famous as “The Park in the Sky”, the High Line is a famous urban park in NYC that is built on a historic elevated railway. The famous neighbourhoods include Chelsea and the Meatpacking District.

Highlights

• Take a leisurely walk across the gardens, sculptures, and public art installations.
• Enjoy an ideal escape with the most mesmerizing views of the Hudson River.
• A perfect point for families, especially for those with kids.

10. Grand Central Terminal

This is one of the most famous and iconic transportation hubs of the city which is ideally located in Midtown Manhattan and serves more than a train station. The terminal itself is an architectural masterpiece and one of the most visited spots in NYC. With a distinctive grand Beaux-Art Design, it features a main concourse with a celestial ceiling, and a four-faced opal clock that serves as a major draw for the tourists.

Other than the impressive looks, this place features different shops, restaurants and cafes, and hidden gems like the Whispering Gallery which is famous for its arched walls that echo back to the noises passed in a unique acoustic way. No matter if you want to catch a train, savour food, or simply explore around, you can indulge in New York’s timeless elegance anytime you visit the Grand Central Terminal.

Highlights

• The place serves as more than a transit hub and is a true masterpiece
• Must-see spots include the main concourse, Grand Central Oyster Bar for fine dining, and the Whispering Gallery.

11. Wall Street & the Financial District

Wall Street and the Financial District in Lower Manhattan serve as the main points to observe the city’s economic power and global financial stability. The place features the famous New York Stock Exchange building as well as the Federal Hall and is the best point to get an idea of the financial strength of the US. Upon reaching here, you can get a chance to see the gigantic corporate buildings and famous firms like the Federal Reserve Bank that are behind the fast-pace of the city. To click the best pictures, you can visit iconic statues like the Charging Bull and the Fearless Girl that perfectly reflect and convey the spirit of ambition and resilience. Overall, walking through this district is like taking a step into the city’s economic culture where major decisions shape markets across the globe.

Highlights

• The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) building.
• The Charging Bull and Fearless Girl statues.
• The Federal Hall. This hall is also famous for being the place of the first oath by US President George Washington.

12. Fifth Avenue: Shopping & Sightseeing

Fifth Avenue is a bustling shopping spot in the USA and is a favourite destination for all shopaholics. You can get a chance to shop from different affordable to designer brands here, as well as explore as many sights as you want. This is one of the must-visit spots during your USA holidays and makes it to the best ones for obvious reasons, the top one being the lively and energetic vibes that urge you to shop more without worrying about anything.

Highlights

• St. Patrick’s Cathedral: A stunning Gothic Revival church.
• The New York Public Library: Beautiful inside and out.
• Luxury stores like Tiffany & Co., Gucci, Apple Store, and Saks Fifth Avenue.

13. Broadway and the Theatre District

This place serves as the heart of the arts scene in NYC and features over 50 functional theatres that display several musical, dramatic, and energetic performances! The Theatre District is famous for hosting the glorious productions of The Lion King, Hamilton, Wicked, and Chicago every year, and attracts lots of arts lovers each year. With a lively vibe on the streets, the place offers unforgettable experiences to everyone and demonstrates the city’s creativity, talent, and passion of the city. To get same-day discounts, you need to buy tickets in advance on visit the TKTS Booth in Times Square.

Highlights

Watch famous shows such as:

• The Phantom of the Opera
• The Lion King
• Hamilton
• Wicked
• Chicago

14. The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is located in Midtown Manhattan and is among the most impactful places for analyzing the modern arts. The museum is known for its daring exhibitions and groundbreaking collections. MoMA presents iconic works by artists mainly from the modern era, such as Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, Frida Kahlo, etc. One of its most timeless pieces here is Van Gogh's The Starry Night, a must-see for any visitor. The museum hosts different types of art including painting, sculpture, photography, films, design, and interactive displays. With its clean yet simple interiors and constantly changing exhibitions, MoMA gives an interesting and novel experience every time you visit. It's a perfect site to explore creativity, new concepts, and the power of visual storytelling right in the heart of New York City.

Highlights

• Houses modern art
• The Starry Night by Vincent Van Gogh.
• Art by Andy Warhol, Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, and more.
• Features film screenings and interactive installations.

15. Washington Square Park

Washington Square Park located in the centre of Greenwich Village, proudly serves as one of the most loved spots in the entire New York City. Famous for its iconic marble Washington Arch, the park serves as a melting pot of cultures as different students, entrepreneurs, artists, and tourists from different parts of the world visit this place. Overall, its lawns, water fountains, and walking paths have made it an ideal calm place for watching others, getting close to nature, or simply enjoying the sunny afternoons. Open to one of the world's finest research centres such as the New York University, Washington Square Park remains the best spot that captures the cultural mix and diversity in downtown Manhattan.

Highlights

• The Washington Arch was modelled after the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.
• Famous among New York University students, artists, and performers.

It’s a Wrap-Up!

All of the aforementioned places are New York’s top landmarks that best depict the city’s soul and portray the stories of growth, freedom, and creativity. Whether you choose to visit the futuristic skyscrapers or any other place, these landmarks welcome you openheartedly and make you feel like a part of the city’s never-ending energy. No matter if you want to live here for a few days only or want to extend your New York luxury holidays, visiting any of these iconic landmarks will help you create memories of a lifetime.

Without any more delay, book your stay in New York City with Virikson Holidays- a top-rated holiday service provider in the UK with more than a decade of experience and thousands of happy customers.