15 Must-See Historical Landmarks in NYC

It’s hard to turn a corner in New York City and not run into a historical landmark. Sometimes there are so many iconic places to visit, it can be hard to choose which ones to see. That’s why I’ve compiled a list of the top 15 historical landmarks in New York City to narrow it down for you — enjoy!

Standing in front of the American Stock Exchange Building

1. Brooklyn Bridge

   The Brooklyn Bridge is not only a very famous architectural wonder and NYC landmark, but walking over the bridge any time of the year is highly recommended. You’ll see views of all of Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty, and Brooklyn. It’s an experience, to say the least!

2. New York Historical Society

   The New York Historical Society located on Manhattan’s Upper West Side is definitely worth a visit. It was established in 1804 as New York’s first museum! It also includes a great children’s museum if you go with kids. Click here to purchase your timed entry.

3. Brooklyn Heights Historic District

   Once you’ve walked the Brooklyn Bridge, head on over to Brooklyn Heights to visit one of the most picturesque neighborhoods in all of Brooklyn. Walk the brownstone streets and head over to the riverfront to see great views of Manhattan. Enjoy local restaurants, cafes, and boutiques.

4. Governors Island

   Only accessible by ferry, enjoy a boat ride over to the 172 acre Governors Island. A special spot in the heart of New York Harbor, Governors Island hosts seasonal events, concerts, and bike rides are encouraged! Click here to plan your visit today.

5. Metropolitan Museum of Art

   One of the most famous museums in the world, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is a must. Its permanent collections are one-of-a-kind and they have frequent exhibits from around the world. In the summer season, you can head to the roof for drinks and Central Park views. Click here to plan your visit today!

6. St. Patrick's Cathedral

   You don’t have to be religious to appreciate the beauty of this Gothic-style Roman-Catholic church, aka New York’s famous St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Located in the heart of Manhattan on Fifth Avenue, you can drop in for a walking tour in-between shopping sprees.

7. Stonewall Inn

   The historic Stonewall Inn is a pivotal landmark bar in New York’s Greenwich Village. It was the site of a lot of protests, activism, and was the scene of an uprising against police repression that led to a key turning point in the struggle for the civil rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) Americans. 

8. American Stock Exchange Building

   The American Stock Exchange Building in New York’s financial district is the famous spot you’ve seen pictured in movies and on TV — the ringing of the bell is a real thing! A visit to the stock exchange building and the bull nearby is a must.

9. City Hall

   New York’s City Hall is the seat of the New York City government and is located in downtown Manhattan’s financial district. Constructed between 1803 and 1812, it’s the oldest city hall in America. You can visit it from the outside as it’s enclosed in a pretty, square park (City Hall Park) and is across the street from the entrance to the Brooklyn Bridge.

10. Chrysler Building

    One of the prettiest and tallest buildings in New York City, the art deco Chrysler Building is hard to miss. There are no tours of the building, but you can (and should) definitely go check out its lobby — you can enter the lobby anytime from 8 am - 6 pm during the week.

11. Grand Central Terminal

    A historic and stunning building, Grand Central Terminal is still a bustling train station and cultural midtown Manhattan landmark. It’s known for its astrologically designed ceiling, beautiful architecture, and great shopping and dining options.

12. Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

    A visit to the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed museum is unlike any other museum visit in NYC! Arguably one of the most important buildings in Wright’s career, it sits on Manhattan’s Upper East Side right near Central Park’s Jackie O. Reservoir. It’s known for its spiral ramp and a domed skylight. The museum has permanent collections and frequent exhibitions.

13. Hispanic Society of America

    The Hispanic Society of America was founded in 1904 in order to create a free, public museum and reference library for the study of the art and culture of Spain, Portugal, Latin America, and the Philippines. It’s an important part of this country’s cultural fabric and an educational visit.

14. Union Square

    Union Square is one of New York City’s political and cultural hearts. Pulsing with downtown NYC life, the park is always alive with street artists, performers, and a year-round greenmarket on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Click here for more info about the greenmarket.

15. Woolworth Building

    The Woolworth Building is one of the oldest buildings in NYC and for a while, it was the tallest building in NYC. Between 1913 and 1930 no other building rivaled it. Today, it is one of the top 100 tallest buildings in the world. Located in the financial district, you can visit its ornate lobby and take a walking tour around.