The 10 Best Sightseeing Tours in New York: Are you planning a trip to New York City? Then you’ve come to the right place! We’ve compiled a list of the 10 best sightseeing tours in New York. From the Empire State Building to the Statue of Liberty, these tours offer something for everyone. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, you’ll be sure to find an exciting and memorable tour experience. So sit back and relax, as we take you on a journey through the best sightseeing tours New York has to offer.
1) Empire State Building
Located in Midtown Manhattan, the iconic Empire State Building is one of the most popular attractions in New York City. Standing at a whopping 1,454 feet tall, the 102-story building is one of the most recognizable structures in the world.
The Empire State Building was designed by Shreve, Lamb & Harmon and completed in 1931. It was the tallest building in the world for over forty years until the World Trade Center towers were completed in 1972. The building has become a symbol of American innovation and ambition and is one of the top tourist destinations in New York.
Visitors to the Empire State Building can take an elevator ride up to the 86th-floor observatory for stunning views of the city skyline. The observatory offers breathtaking views of Central Park and the Hudson River, as well as the neighboring boroughs. Visitors can also explore the Empire State Building’s museum, which includes a collection of photographs, artifacts, and memorabilia related to the building’s construction and history.
The Empire State Building is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. and is located at 350 5th Avenue in New York City. Tickets are available online or at the ticket office onsite. For those looking to get an even more unique view, there is also a special Sunrise Tour that allows visitors to watch the sunrise from the 86th-floor observation deck.
2) American Museum of Natural History
One of the most iconic and popular attractions in New York City is the American Museum of Natural History. Located in Manhattan’s Upper West Side, this museum offers visitors a chance to explore the diverse history of life on Earth. The museum’s permanent collection spans more than 32 million specimens and features exhibitions on topics such as anthropology, astrophysics, botany, geology, paleontology, and zoology.
The museum’s highlights include the Hall of Saurischian Dinosaurs, the Rose Center for Earth and Space, and the Milstein Hall of Ocean Life. The Hall of Saurischian Dinosaurs offers visitors a unique look into the history of these ancient reptiles. The Rose Center for Earth and Space provides educational experiences with interactive exhibits that help visitors understand the origins of the universe and our place in it. Finally, the Milstein Hall of Ocean Life gives visitors a glimpse into the depths of the ocean through its immersive displays.
The American Museum of Natural History also offers educational tours, events, films, and programs. On guided tours, visitors can explore the museum’s galleries and gain insight from knowledgeable staff members. Additionally, there are films shown in the Imax theater that allows visitors to travel deep into space or go back in time to witness prehistoric creatures up close. There are also special programs such as the Sleepover Program and Night at the Museum events.
Visiting the American Museum of Natural History is an unforgettable experience that no trip to New York City should be without.
3) Central Park
Central Park is one of the most iconic landmarks in all of New York City. Spanning 843 acres, it’s a peaceful retreat in the heart of bustling Manhattan. Central Park is home to several attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. Take a peaceful walk around the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir and admire the beautiful skyline of Manhattan, or join a guided walking tour and learn about the park’s history and culture. From family-friendly bike rides to bird-watching tours and carriage rides, there’s something for everyone at Central Park. There are plenty of places to grab a bite to eat, enjoy the sunshine and soak up the atmosphere of this beautiful park. Whether you’re visiting for an hour or a day, Central Park offers something for everyone.
4) Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Center is an iconic complex of 19 commercial buildings located in Midtown Manhattan. It is home to many renowned attractions including Radio City Music Hall, the Top of the Rock Observation Deck, and the beautiful ice-skating rink.
A visit to Rockefeller Center is a must for any tourist visiting New York. This historic landmark was originally created as an art-deco homage to the American dream and continues to be a symbol of wealth and success. Rockefeller Center is home to dozens of world-famous restaurants, stores, galleries, and theaters. Visitors can take the 70-story elevator ride up to the top of the GE Building for stunning 360-degree views of New York City from the Top of the Rock Observation Deck. Or, explore the plaza below and marvel at the famous Atlas Statue or the bronze Prometheus Fountain. During the winter months, tourists can also enjoy ice skating at the famous ice skating rink beneath the sparkling Christmas tree.
No matter what time of year you visit New York, a stop at Rockefeller Center is sure to be a memorable experience. With its fascinating history, spectacular views, and endless entertainment, Rockefeller Center is one of the city’s most beloved attractions.
5) Times Square
Known as the “Crossroads of the World”, Times Square is one of the most iconic attractions in all of New York City. This vibrant area of Midtown Manhattan is home to some of the city’s best theaters, shopping, and dining. The atmosphere of Times Square is electric; from the constant energy of the people and the colorful LED billboards, it’s an experience that can’t be found anywhere else.
If you want to experience the buzz of Times Square, you can take a sightseeing tour that will give you the opportunity to learn about its history and culture. You’ll be able to explore the area’s famous landmarks like Madame Tussauds Wax Museum and the TKTS Discount Booth, where you can purchase discounted tickets to Broadway shows. Plus, you’ll be able to shop along Broadway or take a break at one of the area’s many restaurants or cafes. No matter what your plans are, there is something for everyone in Times Square.
6) Brooklyn Bridge
One of the oldest and most iconic bridges in America, the Brooklyn Bridge has a storied history that dates back to the early 19th century. Connecting the boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn, this bridge has seen its fair share of ups and downs throughout the years. Despite its tumultuous past, the Brooklyn Bridge still stands as one of New York’s most popular tourist attractions.
The Brooklyn Bridge was built in 1883 by John Roebling. It took more than 14 years to complete the project and was the longest suspension bridge at the time it opened. Since then, the bridge has been expanded and improved, but still retains its original design. Today, visitors can take guided tours or simply walk across the Brooklyn Bridge to take in the breathtaking views of the skyline and East River below.
The bridge also features several art installations, including a 9/11 memorial, and is home to a variety of events throughout the year. From movie nights to concerts, there is something for everyone at the Brooklyn Bridge. Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll or learn more about its history, the Brooklyn Bridge is an essential stop for any sightseeing tour of New York City.
7) Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty is one of New York’s most iconic sights and a must-see on any sightseeing tour. Located in the harbor, it was a gift from France in 1886 to commemorate the friendship between the two countries. It stands 151 feet tall and is an impressive reminder of America’s independence. The statue was designed by French sculptor Auguste Bartholdi and dedicated by President Grover Cleveland in 1886.
Visitors can explore the grounds of Liberty Island, where the Statue of Liberty stands, as well as take a ferry ride around it. A trip up to the top of the crown provides stunning views of Manhattan and the harbor. Inside the pedestal, a museum features original artifacts from the statue’s construction. To get an even better view, join a boat tour that takes you around the island and passes by the Statue of Liberty for an up-close look.
8) Ellis Island
Located off the coast of New York City, Ellis Island is one of the most iconic symbols of the country’s immigration history. It was the first stop for more than 12 million immigrants who arrived in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, visitors can take a ferry to the island to explore its historic grounds, which include an Immigration Museum, an American Flag Garden, and an impressive statue of the Great Lady of Liberty.
Visitors to Ellis Island are sure to be amazed at its rich history. The island was first used as an immigration center in 1892, and its museum chronicles the stories of more than 17 million immigrants who passed through its gates. Along with the displays detailing the hardships and struggles of immigrants coming to America, the museum also houses artifacts like passports, photographs, and other items from throughout the country’s history.
Outside of the museum, visitors can explore the entire island. The American Flag Garden pays tribute to those who have served in the armed forces, while the monument of the Great Lady Liberty stands proudly in the center of the island. The beautiful views of New York City make Ellis Island an unforgettable sightseeing experience. With its fascinating history and breathtaking views, Ellis Island is a must-see for anyone visiting New York City.
9) 9/11 Memorial
The 9/11 Memorial is a powerful and moving tribute to the victims of the September 11th, 2001 terrorist attacks. Located on the site of the former World Trade Center towers in lower Manhattan, the memorial features two massive pools, each measuring an acre in size. The pools are inscribed with the names of the almost 3,000 victims of the attack, along with a quote from Virgil about nature’s way of healing wounds. Surrounding the pools is a 9-acre park with trees, fountains, and benches. Visitors can also explore a museum at the memorial that includes artifacts from the attack, such as twisted steel from the wreckage of the Twin Towers, photographs, and recordings of personal accounts. The 9/11 Memorial offers a solemn and inspiring opportunity to remember the people who were lost on that fateful day.
10) Bronx Zoo
The Bronx Zoo is one of the oldest and largest metropolitan zoos in the United States. With more than 6,000 animals from 650 different species, this zoo offers visitors an array of experiences that span far beyond the average.
Visitors to the Bronx Zoo will be able to explore the African Plains exhibit, which features a wide variety of wildlife from around Africa, including lions, zebras, gazelles, giraffes, and rhinos. Other attractions at the Bronx Zoo include a children’s zoo, a birdhouse, and a world-famous Aquatic Zoo.
At the Aquatic Zoo, guests can take part in guided boat tours of the Bronx River or view marine animals up close in the Discovery Center. Popular inhabitants of this area include sea lions, seals, dolphins, rays, and fish. The Aquatic Zoo also features educational displays, as well as interactive exhibits for kids.
In addition to viewing the animals, guests can enjoy a variety of other activities throughout the day. Some highlights include animal shows and demonstrations, as well as hand-feeding various species.
For those looking for an even more memorable experience, the Bronx Zoo also offers a variety of unique programs that are designed to get visitors even closer to nature. These programs include behind-the-scenes tours, overnight camping trips, family-friendly activities, and much more.
The Bronx Zoo is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the world of animals in New York City.