New York Archives - GoAnnieWhere https://goanniewhere.com/category/north-america/united-states/new-york/ Travel Tips + Blog Sun, 03 Dec 2023 00:57:48 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0 https://i0.wp.com/goanniewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/cropped-goanniewhere.jpg?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1 New York Archives - GoAnnieWhere https://goanniewhere.com/category/north-america/united-states/new-york/ 32 32 189637439 The Best NYC Christmas Spots to Take Your Holiday Photos https://goanniewhere.com/the-best-nyc-christmas-spots-to-take-your-holiday-photos/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=the-best-nyc-christmas-spots-to-take-your-holiday-photos Sun, 13 Dec 2020 04:16:00 +0000 https://goanniewhere.com/?p=2584 No city in the world compares to New York City, especially not around Christmas time. NYC is truly magical around the holidays! Twinkly lights line the streets, towering Christmas trees…

The post The Best NYC Christmas Spots to Take Your Holiday Photos appeared first on GoAnnieWhere.

]]> No city in the world compares to New York City, especially not around Christmas time. NYC is truly magical around the holidays! Twinkly lights line the streets, towering Christmas trees are lit up, and festive window displays appear one after the other. There is an overall atmosphere of joy, gratitude, and happiness! Each place seems to outdo each other with their Christmas decorations. This also means endless photo opportunities in NYC around the holidays. Find out the best Christmas spots in NYC to take your holiday photos!

1. Lotte New York Palace

455 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10022

One of the most iconic trees in New York City is located in the courtyard of this luxury hotel. You don’t have to be a guest here to take a photo in front of the tree! It is no surprise that this dazzling Christmas tree tops the list of NYC Christmas spots to take holiday photos. Have fun posing in front of this hotel, XOXO Gossip Girl 😘

Lotte New York Palace is one of the best christmas photo spots

2. Cartier

653 5th Ave, New York, NY 10022

Cartier’s red bow decor is a staple of NYC Holiday Photo spots! To get this photo, snap a shot as you’re crossing the intersection diagonally from the store. I recommend getting here in the early morning to take this photo without crowds.

Cartier New York City Photo Spot

3. NoMo Soho

9 Crosby St, New York, NY 10013

NoMo Soho is another luxury hotel with a dazzling exterior! These lights are hung on the walkway leading to the entrance of the hotel. This is a great spot to take your Christmas photos in New York City!

Nomo Soho in New York City

4. Radio City Music Hall

1260 6th Ave, New York, NY 10020

I love seeing the lights turn on as the sun sets at the Radio City Music Hall! To get this photo, cross the street towards the fountain and you’ll find large sculptures of red ornaments with Radio City Music Hall perfectly framed. This is an iconic Christmas in NYC photo spot!

Radio City Music Hall

5. Rockefeller Center

45 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10111

The lighting of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree is a tradition that started in the 1930s and has attracted millions of visitors each year. This tree has been dubbed “a holiday beacon for New Yorkers and visitors alike”. You need to take a NYC Christmas photo in front of the tree!

Rockefeller Center in NYC

6. Saks Fifth Avenue

611 5th Ave, New York, NY 10022

The Saks Fifth Avenue Holiday Light Show is a treasured NYC holiday tradition. This impressive display draws massive crowds so be sure to get here early for a spot for your holiday photos.

7. The Vessel

20 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001

New York City’s newest attraction,Β the Vessel, is an architectural sight to be seen. Located in Hudson Yards, the Vessel is comprised of over 2,500 steps and offers an amazing view of New York City. Plus, the holiday lights outside make a great photo opportunity as well!

The Vessel in NYC

8. Hudson Yards

20 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001

While you’re at the Vessel, step inside the mall at Hudson Yards to find this impressive interior lights display! How stunning are these lights!

9. Rolf’s

281 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10010

Located near the Flatiron District, Rolf’s is a German restaurant and bar known for its elaborate holiday decor. Stop by for a meal and drinks and snap some festive shots!

10. Pultizer Fountain

764 Central Park S, New York, NY 10019

The Pultizer Fountain is a lesser-visited NYC Christmas attraction, but the decor here rivals the more popular spots!

11. Bryant Park

 5th Ave, New York, NY 10018

Bryant Park is such a fun area to visit during the holidays! Every year, the park transforms around Christmas time with a giant ice skating rink, a colorful Christmas tree, and a Christmas market! There are plenty of photo opportunities in Bryant Park.

12. Lillie’s Victorian

If you’re looking for a festive storefront, look no further than Lillie’s Victorian! This is another iconic NYC Christmas photo spot.

13 East 17th Street, New York, New York, 10003

Lillie's Victorian in NYC

13. The Peninsula New York

700 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019

The beautiful decor inside the Peninsula New York looks straight out of a fairytale! Make sure to go to the rooftop for a beautifully decorated scene. During the holiday season, the rooftop of the Peninsula becomes a chalet with decor inspired by a ski lodge in St. Moritz, Switzerland.

Chalet di Ning in New York City

14. Brookfield Place New York

230 Vesey St, New York, NY 10281

Located near the World Trade Center, Brookfield Place has stunning lights strung on trees that make the perfect NYC Christmas spot for holiday photos!

15. Dyker Heights

Brooklyn, New York

If you want to see Christmas lights, then be sure to visit this very decorated neighborhood in Brooklyn! The festive decor will bring a smile to anyone’s face.

LOVE THIS POST? SAVE IT ON PINTEREST!

The Best NYC Christmas Spots to Take Your Holiday Photos

The post The Best NYC Christmas Spots to Take Your Holiday Photos appeared first on GoAnnieWhere.

]]> 2584 The 25 Most Instagrammable Cafes in NYC https://goanniewhere.com/25-most-instagrammable-cafes-in-nyc/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=25-most-instagrammable-cafes-in-nyc Sun, 31 May 2020 19:45:00 +0000 https://goanniewhere.com/?p=1415 There’s no better feeling than walking in to hot brewed coffee, aromatic teas, fresh-from-the-oven pastries, and aesthetically pleasing decor. New York City is filled with cafes serving delicious baked goods…

The post The 25 Most Instagrammable Cafes in NYC appeared first on GoAnnieWhere.

]]> There’s no better feeling than walking in to hot brewed coffee, aromatic teas, fresh-from-the-oven pastries, and aesthetically pleasing decor. New York City is filled with cafes serving delicious baked goods and drinks – and an added bonus is that some of these cafes make great spots for Instagram photos! Check out this list of the 25 most Instagrammable cafes in NYC.

Most Instagrammable Cafes in NYC
Bakeri in Greenpoint (Brooklyn)

Note: Please be considerate when taking photos inside any shops or cafes. First and foremost, support these local businesses by making a purchase. Secondly, ask for permission to take photos. Don’t let trying to get the perfect shot get in the way of the staff or other guests.

1. M Tea

 36-56 Main St, Flushing, NY 11354

One of NYC’s newest Instagrammable cafes, M Tea in Flushing will fill your feed with beautiful pinks! I am absolutely obsessed with the hot air balloon couch. Grab a bubble tea and enjoy the whimsical decor.

2. Cafe Medi

107 Rivington St, New York, NY 10002

Serving Mediterranean cuisine inspired by the traditional dishes of Spain, Italy and France, Cafe Medi will be sure to delight your taste buds. Plus, the beautiful mosaic interior and aesthetic are added bonuses.

3. NoMo Kitchen

 9 Crosby St, New York, NY 10013

Located in the NoMo Soho Hotel (which is also a popular NYC Instagram spot), NoMo Kitchen features a beautiful dining setting complete with dazzling chandeliers and plenty of greenery.

4. Pietro Nolita

174 Elizabeth St, New York, NY 10012

This eatery serves delicious Italian fare in a pretty pink setting! Another one of my favorite NYC Instagrammable cafes that is sure to add color to your feed.

5. L Room Cafe

41 W 14th St, New York, NY 10011

The pastries here look almost too good to eat! The key word is “almost” πŸ™‚

6. Cha Cha Matcha

373 Broome St, New York, NY 10013

Matcha-lovers rejoice! A cafe where you can enjoy delicious matcha and take Instagrammable photos in NYC?!

7. Bakeri

105 Freeman St, Brooklyn, NY 11222

I love the floral wallpaper and the colorful chairs at this cafe in Brooklyn! The quiche and latte here were delicious.

8. Felix Roasting Co.

450 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10016

If you’re a coffee lover, you need to check out this innovative coffee shop and roasting company. Plus, this spot is so elegant and classy!

9. Eataly NYC Flatiron

200 5th Ave, New York, NY 10010

This Italian market showcases an array of cafes! Be sure to stop by throughout the year since the decorations are changed based on the season.

10. SΓ©zane 

This NYC Instagrammable shop is actually part cafe and part boutique! You can enjoy the best of both worlds and shop while enjoying a cup of coffee. The beautiful interchanging floral exterior and the cozy interior makes this one of my favorite spots.

11. Dylan’s Candy Bar

Check out this sweet spot! This colorful candy shop and cafe will be sure to add a pop of color to your Instagram feed.

12. The Blue Box Cafe

If you love Breakfast at Tiffany’s, then you’ll love this cafe that is decorated completely in Tiffany Blue!

13. Old Rose

113 Jane St, New York, NY 10014

Located in the Jane Hotel, Old Rose is a cafe and eatery serving Italian fare. It is open for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, and drinks. Their brunch is absolutely delicious. Plus, just look at their interior!

14. Matchaful

359 Canal St, New York, NY 10013

I really can’t get enough of these matcha cafes! Love the beautiful green facade of the exterior and the aesthetically pleasing interior.

15. Blank Slate Tea

121 Madison Ave #3, New York, NY 10016

Sip on tea and enjoy small-bites in this pink hued cafe! P.S: You don’t have to wait until Wednesday to check out Blank Slate Tea πŸ™‚

16. Milk & Roses

1110 Manhattan Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222

Doesn’t this Instagrammable NYC cafe make you want to curl up with a good book? This spot is both cozy and intimate.

17. Butler

101 N 8th Street, Brooklyn, New York

Grab a delicious baked good and rich espresso from this bakeshop and snap a shot of this pretty storefront!

18. Sweetleaf Coffee Roasters

159 Freeman St, Brooklyn, NY 11222

I’m loving the mismatched chairs at this cozy coffee shop!

19. Woops!

548 Driggs Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211

Woops! serves macarons, pastries, and coffee in a cheerful and compact setting πŸ™‚ This cafe is made for Instagram with its white wooden walls and tiled tabletops with vases of flowers.

20. Maman Greenpoint

80 Kent St, Brooklyn, NY 11222

I actually haven’t visited this cafe yet, but the pastries here look so good (especially the croissant). Let me know how you like it!

21. Petee’s Cafe

505 Myrtle Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11205

The pink and green work so well together! No wonder yet another beautiful cafe features these colors.

22. Cafe Alula

252 Franklin St, Brooklyn, NY 11222

I want to eat everything on the menu here, and that statement is not an exaggeration.

23. Urban Backyard

180 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10012

Let’s be honest…doesn’t this spot look like the perfect place for a cup of coffee and people-watching?

24. Supermoon Bakehouse

120 Rivington St, New York, NY 10002

Check out Supermoon Bakehouse for the most unique baked goods in NYC. Their pastries are out of this world!

25. Bright Side

184 Kent Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249

Lastly, I wanted to end this on a BRIGHT note. This cafe in Brooklyn serves different breakfast items such as bowls and toasts and a wide variety of drinks including espresso, coffee, juice, matcha, and smoothies.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this list of the 25 most Instagrammable cafes in NYC! Let me know how you liked these spots.

LOVE THIS POST? SAVE IT ON PINTEREST!
25 Most Instagrammable Cafes in NYC

The post The 25 Most Instagrammable Cafes in NYC appeared first on GoAnnieWhere.

]]> 1415 3-Day New York City: Weekend Travel Itinerary https://goanniewhere.com/3-day-new-york-city-weekend-travel-itinerary/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=3-day-new-york-city-weekend-travel-itinerary Fri, 22 May 2020 02:58:34 +0000 https://goanniewhere.com/?p=1351 No other city in the world can compare to New York. New York City is the city that other cities can only dream of being. You could spend years living…

The post 3-Day New York City: Weekend Travel Itinerary appeared first on GoAnnieWhere.

]]>
3 Day New York City Weekend Travel Itinerary
View from Top of the Rock

No other city in the world can compare to New York. New York City is the city that other cities can only dream of being. You could spend years living here, and you would not get bored with the seemingly endless number of sights and attractions, things to do, and places to eat. Now – the challenge is trying to see as much of this city as possible in the span of a weekend. I actually lived in New York City for a few months last year, and I spent my free time playing ‘tourist’ in my new city. In that time, I had several friends visit me as well, and for most, it was their first time in NYC. I made a weekend travel itinerary for their visits and adjusted and fine-tuned it after each visit. As a result, I’ve perfected a weekend travel itinerary for New York City!

Follow this New York City travel itinerary if you want to see and experience the most of NYC in a weekend.

Day 1: Broadway, Times Square, and Skyline Views!

Are you ready to explore one of the greatest cities in the world? My New York City weekend travel itinerary is jam-packed with activities, so get ready! This first day depends on the time you’re arriving in the city.

Most people will tend to arrive later in the afternoon or evening on Fridays, so I am going to start my itinerary around that time. However, feel free to adjust and start following whenever it fits best.

Attend a Broadway Show

One of the classic things to do in NYC is attending a Broadway show! There are numerous shows to choose from, from newer productions such as Dear Evan Hansen and Hamilton and timeless classics such as Phantom of the Opera, Wicked, and The Lion King. If there is a show you know you want to see, then be sure to purchase your tickets well in advance to ensure you have seats. However, if you are indifferent, then there are cheaper options to see a show. You can enter the daily Broadway lottery system for seats for less than a quarter of the usual price! Also, you can check the TKTS booths in person when you arrive in NYC for Broadway tickets up to 50% off.

Explore Times Square

After an entertaining show, it is time to explore one of the most famous places in the world! Everyone needs to visit Times Square at least once in their life. The activity, traffic, and bustle there is unlike any other place in the world! Walk around under the flashing lights and towering billboards and explore the shops and attractions around the square. You’ll stumble upon street performances and find your senses filled with delicious aromas of hot dogs, peanuts, and halal food.

Have a Delicious First Meal in NYC

There are so many great restaurants and dining options in New York City, but for your first meal, I recommend eating at a well-loved restaurant around Times Square for the quintessential NYC dining experience!

Here are some of my favorite restaurants in this area:

  • Junior’s Restaurant & Bakery: You can’t go wrong eating at a classic neighborhood diner. Check out Junior’s for deli sandwiches, burgers, soups, salads, and other classic and comfort American foods. Plus, they have an amazing dessert selection and famous, mouthwatering New York cheesecakes!
  • Carmine’s Italian Restaurant: When I first stepped inside this Italian restaurant and saw the portion sizes, I thought I was in heaven. Carmine’s serves heaping portions of classic Italian food, and it truly is family style. I ordered the penne alla vodka, and it was absolutely delicious.
  • Los Tacos No.1: If you’re looking for authentic Mexican tacos, then look no further! This bustling, no-frill taco spot is a favorite for locals and tourists alike.
  • Ichiran: Try one of Japan’s most popular ramen restaurants in the heart of NYC. Ichiran specializes in Tonkotsu ramen, which is a pork-based aromatic broth. It also offers a unique dining experience by serving you in a private ramen booth that allows you to focus on the flavors of your meal.

Tip: Try and get a reservation as these restaurants can be crowded on a Friday evening.

Enjoy Panoramic Scenes at The Press Lounge

After dinner, head to the Press Lounge for drinks and panoramic scenes of the New York City skyline. The lounge is located on the rooftop of the Ink48 Hotel, and there is no cover charge to enter. This is by far my favorite rooftop view in New York City. Have fun, but don’t stay out too late as it is an early morning the next day!

Day 2: Manhattan, Mayhem, and More!

Catch Sweeping Views at the Top of the Rock

Kickoff a full day of exploration by first catching sweeping views of Manhattan at the Top of the Rock. The Top of the Rock is an observatory on top of the Rockefeller Center, and it is well worth the price ($38 USD) to visit. The first entrance time is at 8:00 AM, and I recommend visiting bright and early for a less crowded experience. Make sure to reserve your tickets online in advance for a guaranteed time slot.

Stop for Breakfast Bagels

Bagels are a must in New York City. There’s a long-standing debate over the best place to get bagels in NYC, but my favorite is Best Bagel & Coffee. My favorite combinations are the sun-dried tomato spread on a toasted everything bagel and the strawberry cream cheese on a cinnamon raisin bagel. I also order a coffee… because it’s in the name πŸ™‚

Head to Battery Park and see the Statue of Liberty

Take the subway to the southernmost point of Manhattan to catch a glimpse of the Statue of Liberty. As soon as you reach Battery Park, there will be people handing out flyers to visit Liberty Island. Personally, I don’t think taking a ferry to Liberty Island is worth it (especially not when you’re on a weekend time limit). However, if you do want to see the Statue of Liberty closer and for free, check out the Staten Island Ferry that is part of the New York City Department of Transportation. This ferry won’t take you to Liberty Island, but it will pass close by it on its route between lower Manhattan and Staten Island.

From Battery Park, we’re going to work our way back up through Manhattan.

Explore the Financial District

After Battery Park, the next stop is the Financial District. Check out the famous (or infamous?) Wall Street and the New York Stock Exchange. Make sure to stop by the statue of the Charging Bull for a photo. Another highlight in the Financial District is Trinity Church. This historic church is the final resting place for Alexander Hamilton and many other early Americans.

Pay your respects at the 9/11 Memorial

After exploring the Financial District, walk up a few blocks and find yourself standing near where the Twin Towers used to be. The 9/11 Memorial, commemorating the September 11, 2001 attacks, now occupies the space at the site of the One World Trade Center. Look up and you’ll find the Freedom Tower, a symbol of unity and rebirth at a staggering (and patriotic) height of 1,776 ft. Nearby, you’ll find another attraction, the Oculus, in the new World Trade Center.

Grab New York Style Pizza

Trying New-york style pizza in New York is a given! Head to the original Joe’s Pizza in Greenwich Village for a slice of the famous pizza.

Relax at Washington Square Park

There is no seating available in Joe’s Pizza, but luckily, there are plenty of benches at the nearby Washington Square Park. People-watching there is one of my favorite things to do in NYC. There is always something going on, whether it be musical performances, rallies, or filming. My personal favorite performer is the piano man who lets you lay under the piano (I know it sounds weird, but it is such a cool experience). Enjoy your pizza and this walking break!

Admire the Flatiron Building and Empire State Building

Next is a quick stop to admire the unique Flatiron Building and then the Empire State Building. Once again, I don’t think going to the top of the Empire State Building is worth the time and money, especially since you can get a much better view at Top of the Rock.

Stop by Bryant Park and New York Public Library

New York City might be nicknamed ‘the concrete jungle’, but there are plenty of green spaces and parks spread throughout the city. Bryant Park is also one of my favorite areas, and be sure to check out the New York Public Library that is adjacent to the park. The Rose Main Reading Room is a stunning sight to be seen.

Shop around the Diamond District

The Diamond District is full of fancy shops such as Cartier and Saks, and it is fun to window shop (not much time for actual shopping). While you’re in this area, stop by St. Patrick’s Cathedral as well. I love seeing the juxtaposition of this towering Neo-Gothic church against the skyscrapers.

Wander around Central Park

This might be obvious but it needs to be said. Central Park is huge. I have never managed to walk Central Park in its entirety in a single day. The top sights are located in lower Central Park and include the Gapstow Bridge, the Mall and Literary Walk, Bow Bridge, Bethesda’s Terrace and Fountain, and the Lake (yes, it is just called the Lake). Depending on the season of your visit, you can rent a boat from the Loeb Boathouse and row around the Lake. I love watching the sunset over the lake.

Eat To Your Heart’s Desire

New York City is what food dreams are made of! There are so many great places to eat that you really can’t go wrong. Here are some of my other favorite dinner spots:

  • Veselka: This bustling establishment serves traditional Ukrainian food – their pierogies are to die for!
  • Cafe Mogador: Classic Moroccan cuisine – check out their savory chicken tagine!
  • Xi’an Famous Foods: A taste of western Chinese cuisine in New York City! Their noodle soups are delicious!
  • SriPraPhai: This authentic restaurant claims to have the best Thai food in NYC, and I can’t disagree.

If you’re visiting in the summer or fall, I highly recommend taking the subway to the Flushing Meadows Corona Park for the Queens Night Market. You’ll find mouth-watering street food at this sprawling international market, with numerous vendors from dozens of different countries – I had an arepa from Colombia, Taiwanese popcorn chicken, Singapore rice noodles, and Korean shaved ice all in one meal πŸ™‚

Day 3: Chinatown, Chelsea, Cookies!

Walk around Chinatown and Experience Dim Sum

We are starting out your last day in NYC by exploring Manhattan’s Chinatown. If you’ve never had an authentic dim-sum experience, then get ready to be amazed! Head to Golden Unicorn around opening time (11:00 AM) to grab a table. You’ll start seeing delicious and authentic Cantonese foods being wheeled around on carts…and all you have to do is point at what you want. There are sweet and savory options! Some of my favorite items include steamed bun, fried taro cake, steamed shrimp dumplings, siu mai, mango pudding, baked egg custard, and rice congee.

Check out Chelsea Market and Walk the High Line

Now that you’re stuffed with dim sum, let’s take a walk on the High Line. Take the subway to Chelsea Market, and check out all the shops and restaurants there. You can access the High Line by Chelsea Market and then walk towards Hudson Yard for New York City’s newest attraction, the Vessel.

Admire the Vessel

New York City’s newest attraction, the Vessel, is an architectural sight to be seen. People either love it or hate it – you’re just going to have to see for yourself! It is free to visit, but make sure to reserve your ticket online or in-person at the kiosks as only a certain number of people are allowed inside at a time.

Try New York City’s Most Famous Cookies

It’s time for another food stop! Head to Levain Bakery on the Upper East Side for rich and gooey freshly-baked cookies! My personal favorite is the chocolate walnut πŸ™‚

See Famous Pieces of Art at the Met

Only a 10 minute walk away from Levain Bakery is one of the world’s largest and finest art museums! You could spend days exploring the Met (which unfortunately you don’t have), but you could visit the highlights within a few hours.

Take the subway to DUMBO

DUMBO, a neighborhood in Brooklyn, is one of my favorite areas in NYC! Be sure to stop at the intersection of Water St and Front St for the iconic photo of the Manhattan Bridge. A few steps away from that spot is Main Street Park where you’ll find a great view of the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan skyline. Head to Time Out Market’s rooftop for drinks and soak it all in.

Watch the sunset on the Brooklyn Bridge

Lastly, walk the Brooklyn Bridge around sunset from Brooklyn to Manhattan to see the transformation of the NYC skyline from day to night. Walking the Brooklyn Bridge is one of my favorite things to do in the city and I have saved the best for last πŸ™‚ It is the perfect way to end your weekend in NYC!

I gathered my favorite spots in New York City to put together this weekend travel itinerary and planned each activity out to maximize your time. As mentioned earlier, I actually used this New York City weekend travel itinerary to show my friends around when they visited me. By the end of this trip, you will most likely be exhausted, but you will have made the most of your time and lasting memories!

LOVE THIS POST? SAVE IT ON PINTEREST!
3 Day New York City: Weekend Travel Itinerary

The post 3-Day New York City: Weekend Travel Itinerary appeared first on GoAnnieWhere.

]]> 1351 Best Instagram Spots in NYC https://goanniewhere.com/best-instagram-spots-in-nyc/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=best-instagram-spots-in-nyc Sun, 17 May 2020 00:33:09 +0000 https://goanniewhere.com/?p=1277 New York City. There is no other city in the world that is comparable to the city that never sleeps. I got the chance to live in the Big Apple…

The post Best Instagram Spots in NYC appeared first on GoAnnieWhere.

]]>
Best Instagram Spots in NYC
View of New York City from Top of the Rock

New York City. There is no other city in the world that is comparable to the city that never sleeps. I got the chance to live in the Big Apple last year, and explored each of the different boroughs of New York City. I spent significant time wandering around and captured some great shots in New York City. One thing is certain…there are countless photo opportunities. Here is a list of the best Instagram spots in NYC!

The Vessel

New York City’s newest attraction, the Vessel, is an architectural sight to be seen. Located in Hudson Yards, the Vessel is comprised of over 2,500 steps and offers an amazing view of New York City. It is free to visit, but make sure to reserve your ticket online or in-person at the kiosks as only a certain number of people are allowed inside at a time. I visited early in the morning and got a ticket from the kiosk for the first entrance time of the day at 10 AM.

East Village

I love walking through the different districts of Manhattan and discovering all the defining characteristics of each neighborhood. You can find this popular NYC Instagram spot at the corner of Stuyvesant St and E 10th St in East Village.

Staple Street Skybridge

Located in Tribeca, the historic Staple Street Skybridge has such a unique feature. This famous building is one of my favorite photo spots in NYC!

NoMo Soho Hotel

I love taking photos of the twinkling lights at the entrance of the NoMo Soho Hotel. This spot is quite popular, but you’ll get an empty shot with a bit of patience.

Bow Bridge (Central Park)

Central Park has countless great photo spots, but perhaps the most famous is the Bow Bridge.

Bethesda Terrace (Central Park)

Located near the Bow Bridge, Bethesda Terrace is considered the heart of Central Park. Make sure to go under the terrace to admire the ornate and intricate tile-work on the ceiling.

The Pond (Central Park)

Enter Central Park near the Plaza hotel or 5th Ave and 59th St to find this spot. You’ll have to climb up some rocks for a view over Central Park and Gapstow Bridge.

Bethesda Fountain (Central Park)

One of the most beautiful fountains I’ve ever seen! Do you recognize this from the movie Enchanted?

The Lake (Central Park)

Rent a boat from the Loeb Boathouse and spend an afternoon out on the lake! The boats are only $15/hour (cash only) and can seat up to 4 people, making this one of the most affordable activities in New York City.

The Mall (Central Park)

Lined by an avenue of majestic trees, the Mall runs through the middle of Central Park and leads to the Bethesda Terrace. It is a great spot to catch fall colors in the autumn.

Top of the Rock

Visit Top of the Rock for a 360 degree view of the concrete jungle. This observation deck is located at the top of the Rockefeller Center in the heart of Manhattan. The best time to visit for photography would be sunset, however, a visit during opening hours means less crowds.

Window View from Top of the Rock

Don’t forget to take some photos inside! You can find this view when you get off the elevator at the Top of the Rock.

28th Street Subway Station

The 28th Street Subway station is probably the most beautiful subway station I’ve ever seen! Take the 6 train heading towards Lower Manhattan and get off at 28th St for this mural.

Washington Square Park

New York City is called the “concrete jungle”, but there are plenty of green spaces throughout the city. One of my favorite things to do on a weekend afternoon is to come to Washington Square Park. There is always something happening whether it be a street performance or other entertainment.

The Met Cloisters

Take the subway uptown and find yourself transported to Europe. The Met Cloisters is a lesser visited spot, however it is well worth the worth. If you’re visiting the Met, your ticket will include admission to the Met Cloisters as well.

Mainstreet Park (Brooklyn)

Mainstreet Park is a great place to capture the Manhattan skyline. I love this view of NYC from Brooklyn.

Coney Island Amusement Park

Coney Island is a great day trip from Manhattan. I took the subway here on a Saturday and spent several hours at the amusement park and exploring the beach.

Garden Bar in Seaport District

Check out this super cute swing located at the Garden Bar in lower Manhattan!

Grand Central Terminal

Be sure to go inside Grand Central Terminal as well and admire the beautiful station.

Tudor Street Bridge

Another great view of Manhattan – this just screams New York City! I first found out about this NYC instagram spot from another traveler’s Instagram

Washington Square Arch

I’m convinced that every major city needs its own iconic arch! The Washington Square Arch rivals the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, the Arco de Triunfo in Barcelona, the Victory Gate in Munich, and the Arch of Cinquantenaire in Brussels.

Bakeri (Brooklyn)

Check out this super cute cafe in Brooklyn! The whimsical wallpaper and colorful chairs make this bakery one of the best Instagram spots in NYC. I ordered a veggie quiche and vanilla latte, and they were both delicious.

Fort Tyron Park

Although Fort Tyron Park is not as popular as Central Park, it is just as lovely. I’m really glad I took the metro and explored this area north of Manhattan.

Radio City Music Hall

Another world renowned spot in New York City! I love seeing the lights and decorations go up around the holidays.

DUMBO

This photo of the Manhattan Bridge is perhaps the most iconic New York City view. This NYC Instagram spot is found at the intersection of Water St and Front St in DUMBO. This spot is very popular, so you will want to get here very early to have it to yourself.

Flat Iron Building

I had to have the famous Flat Iron Building on my list of best Instagram spots in NYC! I loved spending time in this area and relaxing at Madison Square Park nearby.

Brooklyn Bridge

One of my favorite things to do while living in New York City was walking the Brooklyn Bridge. I can’t decide if I loved the walk at sunrise or sunset more.

Times Square

Last but not least…Times Square! I had several friends visit me in New York City when I was living there and for many, it was their first time being in NYC. I loved bringing them to Time Square and just seeing their reactions to all the activity, traffic, and bustle of one of the most famous places in the world! The flashing lights and towering billboards certainly make Times Square one of the best Instagram spots in NYC!

I hope you’ve enjoyed my list of the best Instagram spots in NYC! New York City is full of hidden gems so you’ll never know what unknown spots you might discover during your trip! The best way to get to know New York City is by walking around and keeping your eyes, heart, and mind open.

LOVE THIS POST? SAVE IT ON PINTEREST!

The post Best Instagram Spots in NYC appeared first on GoAnnieWhere.

]]> 1277