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Photos: 15 Iconic NY Landmarks You Need To See

New York is home to many iconic landmarks that everyone should see at least once in their lifetime. Check out our list below.

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NEW YORK CITY, NY — There's an overwhelming number of sites to see in the city that never sleeps, with many even being dubbed as national landmarks. From the architecture of the Empire State Building to the sprawling greenery of Central Park, walking through New York often feels like being on a movie set.

We've rounded up photos of the top 15 landmarks that everyone should see at least once in the span of their lives. Did your favorite New York icon make the list?

Manhattan Bridge

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While New York offers many bridges to marvel over, there truly is something exquisite about the Manhattan Bridge. Taken from a narrow alley enclosed by two brick buildings in Williamsburg, this particular view of the bridge is as iconic as it gets. (Shutterstock)

The Statue of Liberty

No list of New York landmarks is complete without Lady Liberty on it. Whether you've lived in the area your whole life or you're an international visitor, seeing this iconic landmark is a humbling experience. While you're there, you can catch a ferry to historic Ellis Island, formerly one of the busiest immigration inspection stations in the United States back in the 1800s. (Matej Hudovernik/Shutterstock)

Empire State Building

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It's hard to not picture the Empire State Building when you think of the New York City skyline. Even more breathtaking than the building's architecture are the views of you get when visiting the top — totally worth the price of admission. (Marc Venema/Shutterstock)

Central Park

It always amazes people that 800 acres of park sit smack in the middle of Manhattan. Whether you're cutting through to go across town or meeting friends at the Great Lawn, walking through Central Park can make anyone feel like a true New Yorker. (Shutterstock)

Grand Central Terminal

New York isn't the first place that comes to mind when you think about the best public transportation hubs; however, the main hall at Grand Central terminal is iconic New York. Scheduling a quick peek at its sheer beauty should be on everyone's to-do list. (Shutterstock)

Chelsea Market

Touted as an indoor food hall, Chelsea Market has defined itself as a true staple of New York. From the variety of local vendors to options of top-quality food to consume, this stop is one to not miss. (Kristi Blokhin/Shutterstock)

Brooklyn Bridge

A popular path for native New Yorkers who bike and commute daily, crossing the Brooklyn Bridge by foot is something that everyone should do at least once. (TTstudio/Shutterstock)

National September 11 Memorial & Museum

The 911 Memorial is a truly affecting experience and something worth visiting. The waterfall footprints are open to the public; visitors also can purchase tickets to go to the top of the Freedom Tower. The latter will take you through the history of the World Trade Center up in to present day. (YassIlhem/Shutterstock)

Broadway Theater District (Times Square)

Walking through Times Square and seeing a Broadway show is yet another "you have to experience this at least once in your life" entry to the litany of New York landmarks. There's just nothing like it. (EQRoy/Shutterstock)

Yankee Stadium

Whether you're a fan or not, it's pretty cool to say you've seen the Yankees play at Yankee Stadium, a true component to the city's identity. (Dan Hampton/Patch)


The Highline

This entry to the list of New York landmarks may be questionable, but it made the cut for a few reasons. While the Highline is a fairly newer site to see, it has quickly become a part of city's DNA. It is well maintained and serves its purpose of bringing people together to experience a totally different viewpoint of the city. (Courtesy of Tim Lee)


Rockefeller Center

It's a safe bet to say that Rockefeller Center is an iconic staple of the holiday season in America. From the seasonal ice skating rink and the big Christmas tree to the incredible views you can see from the Top of the Rock, this is a stop you won't want to miss. (FrimuFilms/Shutterstock)


New York Public Library

The lions guarding the steps on both sides of the entrance mark this instantly recognizable structure as none other than the New York Public Library. As with the rest of the entries on this list, the architecture is astonishing. Also, the library sits on the east side of Bryant Park, so you should plan to stop by during good weather. (Maria Cormack-Pitts/Patch)
This shot shows the interior of the library's main hall, proving that it lives up to its curbside appeal. (Courtesy of Tim Lee)

Madison Square Garden

Whether you're seeing the Knicks play or Billy Joel perform, going to the Garden is an experience everyone should have. (Courtesy of Tim Lee)

Metropolitan Museum of Art

Rounding out the list of top New York landmarks is none other than the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Even with the abundance of art museum offerings in New York, none other is as recognizable as The Met. This creative institution is a true gift to the city and all of those who get to enter, making it a must-see on the agenda. (Kamira/Shutterstock)

Honorable mentions that deserve a drive-by glance, at the very least.

Chrysler Building

Worth seeing for the architecture alone. (David Allen/Patch)

Flatiron

To the left of the Flatiron is Madison Square Park, where you can get a burger and fries from Shake Shack. To the right is Eataly, a famous market known for its authentic Italian food and products. (Shutterstock)

Radio City Music Hall

Home of the Rockettes, Radio City Music Hall joins Rockefeller Center as being an American staple during the holiday season. (Courtesy of Tim Lee)

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