33 Must-See New York Landmarks That Will Leave You in Awe!

When hearing the word ‘New York’, most people think of the Big Apple. What might come to mind are the hustle and bustle of the city, the swarms of people at Times Square, famous New York City landmarks like Central Park and the Brooklyn Bridge, an iconic symbol of New York City. The East River, which the Brooklyn Bridge spans, is significant in connecting neighborhoods and enhancing views of the Manhattan skyline. New York State itself is often overlooked. This northeastern state also has incredible natural beauty and historical appeal.

New York is the United States’ 11th state and is often nicknamed the Empire State. The state capital is Albany and was the site of the first European settlement in America. The natural beauty of New York State is incredible. From the mighty Niagara Falls to the famed Hudson River, New York certainly is not short of natural allure.

The Adirondack Park is the USA’s largest national park outside of Alaska. Within parks such as the Adirondacks are a wide variety of animals such as moose, bears and raccoons. Bluebirds, the state bird, can also be found in New York’s tranquil forests. New York has a long history, with people first settling in 10,000 BC. It is home to the United Nations headquarters, underground train stations and the tallest building in the western hemisphere. Here are 20 incredible natural and historical landmarks in New York State that you cannot miss when visiting.

21 New York Landmarks

Natural Landmarks in New York

1- Finger Lakes

Finger Lakes are a series of long, narrow lakes in this eponymous region.

The lakes get their name from Iroquois legend that says the finger-like lakes are an impression of the Great Spirit’s fingers.

With such a vast number of lakes in the region, the Finger Lakes is incredibly popular with those searching for a natural escape.

Within the region are state parks, waterfalls, gorges and thick forests.

The Finger Lakes is famous for its vineyards and wine tours, including visits to vineyards and their production lines, boat tours of the region and food tours.

Finger Lakes is at Finger Lakes Region, New York.

Stay at: Moonshadow B&B

2- Thousand Islands

Thousand Islands is a collection of more than 1800 islands dotted along the St Lawrence River for 50 miles (80km).

The river straddles the US Canadian border.

The islands vary in size, from 40 square miles (100 kilometres squared) to small islands occupied by only one resident.

There are rules in place which dictates that an island must feature at least 1 square foot (0.093 meters squared) above the water level and have two living trees.

The largest island in the river belonging to New York is Grindstone Island.

The islands make for a fascinating visit as some islands feature old ruins, stunning 19th-century mansions and nature reserves.

Thousand Islands is at St Lawrence River, between Kingston and Brockville.

Stay at: 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel

3- The Adirondacks

Fall is a fabulous time to visit the Adirondacks, which is a natural landmark of New York state.

The Adirondacks form part of the Canadian Shield and are formed of densely wooded hills and stunning lakes.

The region stretches for more than six million acres and features the largest protected area in the United States outside of Alaska.

Within the region are famous lakes such as Saranac and Tupper, both popular locations for canoeing and kayaking.

The highest peak in the Adirondacks is Mount Marcy at 5345ft (1629m), making for spectacular year-round hiking and climbing opportunities.

Head to the Adirondack Seaway close to the Canadian border for mysterious shipwreck dives surrounded by natural beauty.

The Adirondacks is at Keene, NY 12943.

Stay at: Casa Cipriani New York

4- Taughannock Falls

Taughannock Falls is one of the stunning natural landmarks in New York.

Taughannock Falls is the largest single drop waterfall in New York State as it plunges over 215ft (65m) into the gorge below.

Reaching the falls is possible following a pleasant hike along the gorge or rim trails which offer incredible views of the falls and the 400ft (121m) gorge the falls sits inside.

Camping is available within the National Park for those looking to extend their stay in this breathtaking area.

In addition to hiking, cross-country skiing and skating ponds are also available during the winter months.

Taughannock Falls is at Taughannock Blvd., Trumansburg, NY 14886.

Stay at: New Park Venue & Suites

5- Saratoga Spa

It has long been believed in American culture that the waters of Saratoga hold healing properties.

This belief led to the creation of many spas and health centres within the region and the city of Saratoga Springs itself.

The springs were formed during the Paleozoic period after fault lines in the bedrock split the ground open. Water gradually forced its way to the surface.

During the early 1900s, companies bottled the water from the Springs.

Due to this frenzy, the area was declared a state park, and the government introduced conservation efforts to protect the area’s natural springs and landscape.

Saratoga Spa is at 19 Roosevelt Dr, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866.

Stay at: The Adelphi Hotel

6- Watkins Glen Waterfalls

Another natural landmark in New York State is Watkins Glen waterfall.

Nestled in the Finger Lakes region is the Watkins Glen Waterfalls.

Unlike other waterfalls in the area, Watkins Glen Waterfalls fall over a series of 19 small drops throughout the glen.

The waterfalls are at the southern tip of Seneca Lake.

Watkins Glen stretches over a 2-mile area and drops for 400 ft (122m).

Within the glen are 200ft (61m) high cliffs carved by the water, swimming areas, and many beautiful hiking trails.

Watkins Glen Waterfalls is at Watkins Glen State Park, 971 N Franklin St, Watkins Glen, NY14891.

Stay at: The Fallsview at Burdett Falls

7- Lake Placid

Lake Placid is one of the most famous landmarks in New York state.

Lake Placid sits at the base of Whiteface Mountain in the Adirondacks region.

The lake has an average depth of 50ft (15m), covers 2170 acres (878 ha) and has three islands: Moose, Hawk and Buck.

The lake is fed from freshwater springs in the mountains and provides drinking water for the same name’s town.

Loons and osprey are often seen, making the lake a nature lovers location.

There are also numerous camping grounds dotting the shoreline.

Lake Placid is at Mirror Lake Drive, Lake Placid.

Stay at: The Whiteface Lodge

8- Howe Caverns

Howe Caverns were formed over millions of years as underground streams carved the limestone rocks away.

Native Americans first explored the caverns in the early 1700s.

Over the century, the cave became forgotten until Lester Howe, and his family learnt about the cave and its hidden entrance after moving to a home nearby.

The caverns opened to the public in the mid-1800s.

Howe Caverns sits 156ft (48m) below the surface.

The caves are long and narrow corridors, vast galleries, boulders, a subterranean riverbed and an underground lake.

Howe Caverns is at 255 Discovery Dr, Howes Cave, NY 12092.

Stay at: Luxury Getaway Cabin, Hot Tub, Sauna

9- Whiteface Mountain

Whiteface Mountain, which is a New York state landmark, has a stunning view.

Whiteface Mountain stands at 4867ft (1483m) above sea level and is the state’s fifth-highest mountain peak.

From the summit, a 360-degree view across the Adirondacks is offered and views across Vermont.

Montreal’s skyscrapers in Canada are 80km (50 miles) away and can be seen on a clear day.

The mountain’s east slope is a dedicated skiing area that holds regular skiing and winter sports competitions.

The mountain is a famous place for hikers due to its highly accessible Veterans’ Memorial Highway trail.

The highway leads to a car park at 4699ft (1400m), with a tunnel and elevator taking visitors the remaining 267ft (81m).

Whiteface Mountain is at Wilmington, NY 12997.

Stay at: Lake Placid Inn Boutique Hotel

10- Chimney Bluffs

Rising 175ft (53m) out of the water at the edge of Lake Ontario are the Chimney Bluffs, an uniquely shaped rock formation.

The Bluffs, known scientifically as drumlins, form one of the largest drumlin fields in North America as they cover 12000 kilometres squared (4633 square miles).

There are approximately 10,000 drumlins in the area that stretches from Lake Ontario’s shores to the Finger Lakes.

The bluffs’ unique shapes are caused by weathering and are retreating by up to 5ft (1.52m) each year due to nature.

The best way to view the bluffs on the lake’s shores is from the pebble beach itself, as climbing the cliffs to view from above is highly dangerous.

Chimney Bluffs is at 7700 Garner Road, Wolcott, NY 14590.

Stay at: Sodus Point Home

Historic and Iconic Landmarks in New York

New York City is home to a plethora of historic and iconic landmarks that have become synonymous with its rich history and culture. From the majestic skyscrapers of Midtown Manhattan to the tranquil green spaces of Central Park, these landmarks have captivated the hearts of visitors and locals alike.

11- Montauk Lighthouse

Montauk Lighthouse is another landmark of New York state.

Montauk Lighthouse sits on the tip of eastern Long Island and is the oldest lighthouse in the state, built in 1796.

Montauk has been looked after by members of the US lighthouse service and the US coastguard.

Climb the lighthouse for incredible views over Block Island Sound and the Atlantic Ocean.

Within the lighthouse is the Montauk Lighthouse Oceans’ Institute, which aims to identify, educate and explain challenges about the oceans and other waterways and provide solutions associated with the ecology.

Montauk Lighthouse is at 2000 Montauk Highway, Montauk, NY 11954.

Stay at: The Roundtree, Amagansett

12- The Edward M. Cotter

Crescent Shipbuilding of Elizabeth City, New Jersey, built the Edward M. Cotter fireboat in 1900.

It is possibly the oldest active fireboat globally and is still used today by the Buffalo Fire Department.

The boat has had three names during its services.

In 1900 the boat was named the William S. Grattan, before being renamed ‘Firefighter’ following an extensive renovation in 1953.

A year later, in 1954, authorities renamed the boat ‘Edward M. Cotter’ in memory of a Buffalo firefighter and leader of a local firefighters union who had died that year.

The Edward M. Cotter is at 155 Ohio St, Buffalo, NY 14203.

Stay at: Buffalo Harmony House

13- Sagamore Hill

The Summer Whitehouse is a historic New York monument.

Sagamore Hill, also known as the ‘Summer White House’, was former President Theodore Roosevelt’s home.

The house is in Cove Neck, Long Island and named after a Native American chief called Sagamore Mohannis, who had lived on the hill during the 1800s.

The home consists of 22 rooms kept in the same style and is complete with artefacts, furnishings and personal objects from when Roosevelt lived there with his family.

The home today serves as a museum and is surrounded by many pleasant hiking trails and nature walks.

Sagamore Hill is at 20 Sagamore Hill Road, Oyster Bay, NY 11771.

Stay at: The Wallace Hotel

14- Boldt Castle

One of the most impressive landmarks of New York is Boldt Castle.

Boldt Castle makes up part of the many attractions of Thousand Islands and was built on Heart Island.

George C. Boldt, a millionaire hotel magnate, wanted the castle to be built in Thousand Islands during 1900 as a summer home.

The castle was a tribute to Boldt’s wife, Louise, but she suddenly passed away before the castle was completed.

Following her death, Boldt ceased construction, and the castle lay unfinished and abandoned for 70 years.

The castle was eventually purchased and renovated by The Thousand Islands Bridge Authority.

Visitors can step inside this beautiful and romantic home to explore and experience the 1900s and the castle’s tragic tale.

Boldt Castle is at 1 Heart Island, Alexandria Bay, NY 13607.

Another must-see attraction in New York is the Staten Island Ferry, which offers stunning views and has significant historical importance. This free ferry ride between Manhattan and Staten Island is a popular experience for tourists.

Stay at: Seaway Manor B&B

15- New York State Capitol

Another famous york city landmark in New York is the State Capitol building.

Completed in 1899, the New York State Capitol is a grand Romanesque Revival and Neo-Renaissance building in Albany’s capital city.

Thomas Fuller, Leopold Eidlitz, Henry Hobson Richardson and Issac G. Perry were the architects behind the building’s design.

Within the Capitol are bright and open entranceways, ceiling murals reflecting battles and a large equestrian sculpture of civil war general Philip Sheridan.

State Capitol is at State Street and Washington Avenue, Albany, NY 12224.

Stay at: Oakcliff Bed and Breakfast

16- George Eastman House 

Built in 1905, George Eastman House celebrates the life and works of George Eastman, a pioneer of photography and motion picture.

The house underwent serious renovations before being opened to the public, which returned it to its original appearance.

Within the grounds to the house is the International Museum of Photography and Film.

The museum was founded in 1947 and is the worlds oldest photography museum.

It also houses one of the worlds oldest film archives.

Within the museum is an extensive collection relating to photography, cinema, and technology, making up the several million objects displayed.

George Eastman House and the International Museum of Photography and Film is at 900 East Avenue, Rochester, New York.

Washington Square Park is a vibrant, nearly ten-acre green space in the trendy Greenwich Village neighborhood, serving as a central gathering place. The park is known for its historical significance and architectural features, such as the Washington Square Arch.

Stay at: Dartmouth House

17- Darwin D. Martin House Complex

Frank Lloyd Wright-designed the Darwin D. Martin House complex in 1904.

It is considered to be one of the most important architectural works of Lloyd Wright’s career.

The estate was designed at the height of Lloyd Wright’s Prairie House era.

The house is filled with nearly 400 stained glass windows, which connect the house’s exterior to the interior through shape and colour.

The house is open to the public and offers visitors an understanding of the architect, the house and its unique design.

Darwin D. Martin House Complex is at 125 Jewett Parkway, Buffalo.

Stay at: The Manhattan Retreat

18- Harriet Tubman Home

Harriet Tubman was a leader in the Underground Railroad movement, which helped slaves escape their captors.

Tubman had been born into slavery in Maryland but gained her freedom in 1849 following her escape to Philadelphia.

Over 10 years, Tubman would free more than 70 slaves.

Tubman also played an essential role during the civil war as she acted as a spy, cook and nurse.

Following the civil war, Tubman kept her desire to help others as she became active in women’s rights movements, continuing her support of former slaves, and became involved in the AME Zion Church.

The home, which was once part of Tubman’s nursing home for destitute and aged former slaves, is now open to the public and was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1974.

Harriet Tubman Home is at 180 South Street, Auburn, NY 13021.

Stay at: Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa

Urban and Cultural Landmarks in New York City

19- Statue of Liberty on Liberty Island

One of the most famous New York city landmarks is the Statue of Liberty.

For many arriving immigrants, the Statue of Liberty was their first glimpse of America.

Ellis Island, a gateway for over 12 million immigrants, holds significant historical importance and is often visited alongside the Statue of Liberty as part of the New York City tourist experience.

This welcoming and mighty statue stands 305ft (93m) from the ground to the torch’s tip.

Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, a French sculptor, designed the statue, which was then built by Gustave Eiffel, who also built the Eiffel Tower.

In 1886, the statue was a gift to the Americans from the French.

The Statue of Liberty is made from copper, which over the years has given the statue its famous greenish hue.

The Statue of Liberty is designed around Libertas, the robed Roman goddess of liberty and has many unique historical features, including the date July 4th 1776, inscribed in Roman numerals to represent when the United States gained independence.

There’s a broken shackle laying by her feet, an addition made to commemorate the abolition of slavery.

An unusual fact about Liberty Island is that, although it is located in New York Harbor, the island is technically part of the state of New Jersey based on a Supreme Court ruling in 1834 that established the state boundary along the Hudson River. Despite this, it is operated and maintained by the National Park Service as part of New York.

The Statue of Liberty is at Liberty Island, New York, NY 10004.

Stay at: The Wall Street Hotel New York City

20- Chrysler Building

A marvel of Art Deco architecture and a New York City landmark is the Chrysler Building.

William Van Alen designed the building following Walter P. Chrysler’s purchase of the land.

Chrysler, the founder of Chrysler Corporation, was a key player in the automotive industry.

Construction was completed in 1930 and the building is 1,048ft (319m) tall, with a 125ft (38m) steel spire.

The building features common Art Deco traits such as the sunburst motif towards the spire, which represented optimism and strength despite the ongoing Great Depression, and the use of pyramids, a pivotal link to the interest surrounding Ancient Egypt.

Chrysler Building is at 405 Lexington Avenue, New York, NY 10174.

Stay at: The Langham, New York, Fifth Avenue

21- Empire State Building

It may not be the world’s tallest building but the Empire State Building is one of the most recognisable New York City landmarks.

The iconic skyscraper in New York City, stands at 1,454 feet, including its antenna, and was completed in 1931. Gracing the Midtown Manhattan skyline, it was the tallest building in the world until 1970.

Known for its distinctive Art Deco design, the Empire State Building attracts millions of visitors annually, offering panoramic views from its 86th and 102nd-floor observatories.

This landmark, a symbol of American innovation, has appeared in numerous films and cultural references.

Originally constructed in just 13 months, the Empire State Building demonstrates the engineering marvels of its time and remains a celebrated tourist destination and office building today.

Stay at: Pendry Manhattan West

22- One World Trade Center

One World Trade Center, also known as the Freedom Tower, is a 104-story skyscraper located in Lower Manhattan.

Completed in 2014, it stands at a height of 1,776 feet, making it the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.

The building serves as the main structure of the redeveloped World Trade Center complex and is a symbol of hope and resilience in the face of adversity.

You can take an elevator ride to the One World Observatory, for breathtaking panoramic views of the New York City skyline and New York Harbor.

The design of One World Trade Center incorporates sustainable features and cutting-edge technology, making it a marvel of modern architecture and engineering.

Stay at: Conrad New York Downtown

23- The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, commonly referred to as “The Met,” is one of the world’s largest and most renowned art museums.

Located on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, the museum was founded in 1870 and features a vast collection of art and artifacts from around the world, spanning over 5,000 years of human history.

The Met’s iconic building, designed by Richard Morris Hunt, is a masterpiece of Beaux-Arts architecture and a must-visit destination for art lovers.

With over two million works of art, including masterpieces from ancient Egypt, classical antiquity, and European masters, The Metropolitan museum offers an unparalleled cultural experience.

Special exhibitions, educational programs, and events make it a dynamic and ever-evolving institution that continues to inspire and educate visitors from around the globe.

Stay at: The Mark New York

24- Central Park

Central Park is a sprawling urban oasis located in downtown Manhattan, covering an area of 843 acres.

Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux in 1858, the park is a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, featuring several lakes, gardens, and walking paths.

Central Park is also home to several iconic landmarks, including the Bethesda Fountain, the Loeb Boathouse, and the Conservatory Garden.

As one of the most visited urban parks in the world, Central Park is a testament to the power of nature and design in creating a sense of community and tranquility in the midst of a bustling metropolis.

Whether you’re taking a leisurely stroll, enjoying a boat ride on the lake, or attending a concert at the Great Lawn, Central Park offers a diverse array of activities and experiences for everyone.

By following this plan, the new sections will seamlessly blend with the existing content, providing readers with a comprehensive and engaging guide to New York’s most iconic landmarks.

Stay at: The Whitby Hotel

25- Times Square

Times Square, located in Midtown Manhattan, is one of the most vibrant and iconic destinations in the Big Apple.

Known as “The Crossroads of the World,” it dazzles visitors with its massive digital billboards, neon lights, and bustling energy.

A hub for entertainment and commerce, it is home to theaters, restaurants, and flagship stores.

Times Square hosts the world-famous New Year’s Eve Ball Drop, attracting millions annually.

Rich in history, it was once the epicenter of the Broadway Theater District. Today, it stands as a symbol of NYC’s dynamism, drawing tourists and locals alike to experience its unique, electrifying atmosphere.

Stay at: Baccarat Hotel and Residences New York

26- 9/11 Memorial & Museum

The 9/11 Memorial & Museum, located at the World Trade Center site in the Big Apple, honours the nearly 3,000 victims of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

The Memorial features two reflecting pools, each set within the footprints of the Twin Towers, with the names of the deceased inscribed on bronze panels.

Surrounding the pools is the Memorial Plaza, a tranquil space with trees, including the “Survivor Tree.”

The museum, housed underground, offers exhibits that chronicle the events, impact, and legacy of 9/11.

Through artifacts, personal stories, and multimedia displays, the museum serves as a poignant tribute and a space for reflection.

Stay at: The Greenwich Hotel

27- Brooklyn Bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge, an iconic symbol of New York City, connects Manhattan and Brooklyn across the East River.

Completed in 1883, it was the first steel-wire suspension bridge and a marvel of engineering for its time.

Designed by John A. Roebling and completed by his son, Washington Roebling, it spans 1,595 feet and offers breathtaking views of the city skyline.

The bridge features a pedestrian walkway above its traffic lanes, making it a popular destination for walkers and cyclists.

As a National Historic Landmark, the Brooklyn Bridge remains a testament to innovation, resilience, and the enduring spirit of New York.

Stay at: Hotel Barrière Fouquet’s New York

28- Grand Central Terminal

Grand Central Terminal, located in Midtown Manhattan, is a historic transportation hub and architectural masterpiece.

Opened in 1913, it serves as a major commuter rail station and a New York City landmark.

The terminal’s Beaux-Arts design features a majestic main concourse with an iconic celestial ceiling mural, grand arched windows, and an opulent chandelier.

Its famous four-faced clock, made of opal, is a meeting point for millions. Beyond transit, Grand Central hosts shops, dining options, and cultural events.

A symbol of urban elegance and efficiency, it remains one of the busiest and most beloved destinations in New York City.

Stay at: Pendry Manhattan West

29- Flatiron Building

The Flatiron Building, located at the intersection of Fifth Avenue and Broadway in Manhattan, is one of New York City’s most distinctive architectural landmarks.

Completed in 1902 and designed by Daniel Burnham, its triangular, wedge-like shape resembles a “flat iron,” giving the building its name.

Standing 22 stories tall, the steel-framed structure was among the city’s first skyscrapers.

Its Beaux-Arts style and unique silhouette make it a favorite subject for photographers and artists.

The Flatiron Building anchors the Flatiron District, a vibrant neighborhood filled with historic charm, shops, and restaurants, and remains an enduring symbol of New York’s architectural innovation.

Stay at: The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad

30- Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), located in Midtown Manhattan, is one of the world’s premier art institutions.

Established in 1929, the museum houses an unparalleled collection of modern and contemporary art, featuring masterpieces by Picasso, Van Gogh, Warhol, and Matisse.

MoMA showcases a wide range of mediums, including paintings, sculptures, photography, film, and design.

Highlights include Van Gogh’s The Starry Night and Monet’s Water Lilies. Its dynamic exhibitions and educational programs make it a hub for cultural innovation.

MoMA’s sleek, modern architecture and central location make it a must-visit destination for art lovers and tourists alike.

Stay at: The Whitby Hotel

31- Washington Square Park

Washington Square Park in Greenwich Village, Manhattan, is one of New York City’s most beloved public spaces.

Covering 9.75 acres, it is known for its iconic Washington Square Arch, a marble structure commemorating George Washington.

The park features a central fountain, tree-lined paths, and vibrant lawns, attracting locals and visitors for relaxation and recreation.

A hub for artists, musicians, and performers, it embodies the cultural and creative spirit of the Village.

Historically, the park has been a site for social movements and public gatherings. Its lively atmosphere and rich history make it a cherished landmark in NYC.

Stay at: The Manner

32- Wall Street

Wall Street, located in the Financial District of Lower Manhattan, is synonymous with the heart of the U.S. financial industry.

It is home to the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), the largest stock exchange in the world, and other major financial institutions.

The street’s name traces back to the 17th century when a wooden wall was built by Dutch settlers to defend New Amsterdam.

Today, Wall Street symbolizes global capitalism and economic power.

Landmarks like the Charging Bull statue and Federal Hall draw visitors, while the bustling area is a hub for traders, businesses, and professionals shaping global markets.

Stay at: Crosby Street Hotel

33- High Line

The High Line is an innovative urban park in New York City, built on a historic, elevated railway track.

Spanning 1.45 miles, it stretches from Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking District to West 34th Street in Midtown Manhattan.

Opened in stages from 2009, it transformed a once-abandoned industrial structure into a vibrant public space.

The High Line features lush gardens, art installations, seating areas, and stunning views of the Hudson River and cityscape.

A symbol of urban renewal, it attracts millions of visitors annually, blending nature, design, and community in one of NYC’s most unique and beloved green spaces.

Stay at: Pendry Manhattan West

Also read: