New York City is one of the world’s most iconic places to visit. The brimming metropolis is home to an eclectic mix of cultures, people and attitudes. The American Dream burns bright here, there’s a sense of progress, vibrancy and anticipation, as though anything can happen.

It can be stressful to attempt to see all the great NYC sights and locations, so we’ve put together our top 10 must-do’s that will ensure you’re a NYC conqueror.

Empire State Building

Standing at 102 stories tall and completed in the year 1931, this architectural wonder offers a panoramic view of the bustling city below. The skyscraper has featured in popular culture for decades both in movies; King Kong (1933), Sleepless in Seattle (1993), The Amazing Spider-Man (2012), and television; How I Met Your Mother (2005), Gossip Girl (2007), The Mindy Project (2012). Many tumultuous on-screen couples have solidified their romances at the top of this famous building.

Top Of The Rock

For the quintessential picture of the NYC skyline head to the top of the Rockefeller Center aka the Top Of The Rock Observation Deck. From here you’ll be able to take a picture of the cityscape with the Empire State Building in view, as well as other icons like the Brooklyn Bridge and the Flatiron Building. I recommend heading to the Empire State Building for morning and daytime shots and saving the Top Of The Rock for sunset or night-time views.

The Statue of Liberty

Lady Liberty, a symbol for freedom and enlightenment, can be seen by catching the FREE Staten Island Ferry to Staten Island.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

There are several fantastic museums to see in NYC but if you only see one, it has to be the MET. Founded in 1870, the MET contains the works of many of the world’s most famous artists including paintings by Vincent van Gogh. Gossip Girl fans will also recognise the steps of the MET as the domain of Queen B – Blair Waldorf.

Central Park

A much needed natural sanctuary from city life, Central Park is worth a visit. You can hire a bike and explore the park at your leisure. Bordering the park are the American Museum of Natural History, the MET, and the Museum of the City of New York.

Times Square

You can visit this lively entertainment hub at all hours but it’s best seen at night.

Soho

NYC’s shopping distinct consists of popular big name brands, designer boutiques, quirky bookstores and art galleries (check out the Museum of Modern Art). A personal recommendation for tea lovers is to visit Harney and Sons, these high quality fine teas are unique and wonderful. The tea is packaged in expensive looking canisters with gold labelling. Each time you visit the store you get your choice of a free cup of tea.

American Museum of Natural History

Another one of NYC’s amazing museums. The Night at the Museum franchise (2006) was set here. Basically if you’re anywhere in New York City, somebody’s probably written about it.

Grand Central Terminal

“People who come to New York should enter a palace on the end of their ride, and not a shed.”
— Real Estate Record and Guide, June 5, 1869.

Brooklyn Bridge

An impressive architectural feat that links the boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn.

Other Suggestions

• Rooftop Bars! They’re everywhere in New York City and they’re awesome.
• The Strand, one of the coolest bookstores to visit.
• The Friends apartment where the tv show Friends shot the exterior scenes of the building where the characters lived.
• Chinatown and Little Italy, both great locations to find a place to eat.