Discover the top 5 destinations that you must see when visiting New York city.

1. Central Park

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Central Park. Photo: NYP

With cameo roles in more than 350 films, America’s first public park is embedded in our collective consciousness, yet experiencing Central Park in person is always awe-inspiring. These 843 acres of serene green represent one of the most relaxing places to visit in New York City.

Visit the Great Lawn or Sheep Meadow to see New Yorkers at play, throwing frisbees and soaking up the sun. Rent a bike or go for a run on miles of mixed-terrain trails incorporating hills, flats, and a motivating buzz of activity. Rent a paddleboat at Loeb Boathouse or go fishing in Harlem Meer. In winter, take to the ice at Woolman Rink.

2. Times Square

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Times Square. Photo: Travelandleisure

In 1904, fueled by advertising genius and electrical currents, the first lighted billboard went live and the phenomenon known as Times Square launched. More than a century later, the lights and action are even brighter. The very mention of this neon neighborhood causes many a New Yorker’s eyes to roll, but every first-time visitor should see Times Square—especially at night (with the caveat that you should also venture well beyond this tourist mecca). Watch the show unfold from an elevated seat on the red steps near Duffy Square.

New York’s wackiest and most wonderful characters enter the stage as costumed superheroes such as Batman and Lady of Liberty. When snapping Instagram-worthy shots with your favorites, be sure to offer a tip, according to Smartertravel.

3. September 11 Memorial

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September 11 Memorial. Photo: Archdaily

Touropia said that the National September 11 Memorial has been constructed in honor to those who were killed in the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. The names of those who died are engraved in two bronze panels flanking the Memorial pools. The pools are each nearly an acre in size and mark the footprints of the Twin Towers that once stood on that site. The National September 11 Memorial Museum serves to educate the public on the implications of the attacks through multimedia displays, archives, narratives and a collection of artifacts.

4. Rockefeller Center

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Rockefeller Center. Photo: Touropia

A tour of Rockefeller Center, a complex of 19 buildings built by the Rockefeller family, offers a behind-the-scenes look at some of New York City’s greatest treasures. These buildings have housed many major corporations over the years including General Electric and are home to the NBC studios. At 70 stories high, the Top of the Rock observation deck gives visitors an unobstructed 360 degree views of New York City. The NBC Studios tour gives visitors the chance to glimpse the sets of their favorite NBC shows or sit behind a news desk. Rockefeller Center is also home to Radio City Music Hall, which was restored to reflect its 1930s glamor. Rockefeller Center transforms during the holiday season with the impressive Christmas tree overlooking the skating rink and Radio City Christmas Spectacular.

5. Brooklyn Bridge

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Brooklyn Bridge. Photo: Experiencefirst

The Brooklyn Bridge, built between 1869 and 1883, is one of the oldest and most recognizable suspension bridges in the world. It spans 5,989 feet and connects Manhattan to Brooklyn across the East River. More than 120,000 vehicles, 4,000 pedestrians and 2,600 bicyclists cross the bridge every day. Visitors to the bridge can walk, drive, or bike across this famous New York City landmark. There is a pedestrian walkway situated above the traffic, where visitors can take in views of the harbor and both boroughs. The 2 km (1.3 mile) stroll across the bridge offers plenty of opportunities for admiring the New York skyline.