A neighborhood that most people will think of when they think of New York City: the Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, 30 Rock—it’s all here. Take in a Broadway show or explore the expanse of the New York Public Library. See everything from Central Park to the bright lights of Times Square in one action-packed afternoon.
Midtown, the bustling heart of Manhattan, is a hub of business and activity. Home to countless multinational corporations, Midtown attracts visitors from around the world to meetings and conferences, but there's plenty to do beyond the boardroom. Take a stroll along Fifth Avenue, where high-end department stores and boutiques await, or grab a bite to eat at one of Midtown's many acclaimed dining establishments. While you're there, consider visiting the Top of the Rock observation deck, which offers a stunning view of the city skyline.
Midtown is the city's most visited area by locals and tourists; try getting there as early as you can in the day to avoid being stuck among a throng of people.
Midtown has been the central business district of New York City since the early 1900s. It spans from 34th Street to 59th Street and from Third Avenue to Ninth Avenue. One of its most iconic buildings, the Empire State Building, was completed in 1931 and was the tallest building in the world until 1971. Midtown has also been the setting for numerous movies and TV shows. With its old-world charm and modern conveniences, Midtown is a must-see destination for anyone visiting New York City.
Midtown is well-connected to numerous parts of New York City by public transportation, including the A, C, E, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W and 7 subway lines and the M104 and M55 bus lines. If traveling by car, be prepared for heavy traffic, especially during peak hours. You can also take the Amtrak to Penn Station from outside the city.
This museum showcases contemporary and modern art from various artists, including paintings, sculptures, photographs, and film. The museum boasts a vast collection of artwork from established and upcoming artists, including Pablo Picasso, Frida Kahlo, Jackson Pollock, and Vincent Van Gogh. Be sure to spend a few moments in quiet reflection in the museum’s sculpture garden.
Known for its bright lights, giant billboards, and bustling crowds—the “crossroads of the world” is famous for its New Year’s Eve celebration drawing huge crowds to watch the famous ball drop at midnight. It’s also a popular spot for performers and street artists who entertain the crowds with music, magic shows, and more. Tourist attractions in Times Square range from the massive M&M store to Madame Tussauds wax museum and Ripley’s Believe it Or Not!
Rockefeller Center has many popular attractions and activities, such as the iconic ice skating rink, the Top of the Rock observation deck, and the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony. The home to NBC, Rockefeller Center is the filming location for “The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon,” “Saturday Night Live,” and “The Today Show.” Visitors can take an official tour of the NBC studios and see the sets where these shows are filmed.
Don’t be afraid to take a moment and stop to look up to see all of the bright lights and skyscrapers Midtown is known for—just make sure you’re not in anyone’s way when you do, or you may hear about it!
Best known for its theaters that host world-famous plays and musicals. Some of the most popular shows that have premiered on Broadway include “Hamilton,” “The Lion King,” and “Wicked.” While “The Phantom of the Opera” just ended a record-breaking 34-year run, visitors can still see shows like “The Book of Mormon” and “Moulin Rouge! The Musical.” For discounted tickets, swing by the TKTS booth at Broadway and 47th Street, but be prepared to wait.
The famous music venue, which opened in 1932, features a stunning Art Deco interior and a seating capacity of over 6,000. Over the years, the venue has hosted countless concerts, performances, and special events. Notable events include the annual Christmas Spectacular featuring the Rockettes dance troupe and numerous award shows such as the Grammy Awards and Tony Awards. The Music Hall features everything from touring rock musicians to classical performances. Visitors can also tour the historic venue and learn about its rich history, unique architecture, and world-renowned productions. The Radio City Music Hall tour takes guests behind the scenes to see the dressing rooms, rehearsal halls, and production areas where some of the biggest stars in show business have prepared for their performances.
The largest train station in the world by the number of platforms (44!), Grand Central serves commuters traveling on the Metro-North Railroad to Westchester, Putnam, and Dutchess counties in New York and Fairfield and New Haven counties in Connecticut. However, you don’t need to travel to enjoy Grand Central Station’s breathtaking beauty. Take a stroll through the energetic terminal with its iconic clock and the epic ceiling mural depicting the constellations of the zodiac. Visitors can also take a trip back in time by having lunch at the Grand Central Oyster Bar, which has looked largely the same since opening in 1913.
The iconic main branch of one of the largest library systems in the world is a book lover’s dream come true. The building features a massive facade flanked by two imposing marble lions. Inside, visitors can enjoy a stunningly ornate atrium, the soaring three-story Rose Main Reading Room, smaller reading rooms, exhibit spaces, rare book collections, and more. Visitors will undoubtedly recognize the library from appearances in classic New York-based films.
You will find some of the city’s most opulent hotels in Midtown, like the famous Plaza Hotel, the St. Regis New York, and the Baccarat Hotel. These hotels feature all of the class and elegance you would expect of a high-end New York hotel.
The Plaza Hotel was constructed in 1907 and designated a National Historic Landmark in 1986. It has also been seen in many films over the years. Across 5th Avenue, St. Regis is known for its high level of service, as well as the famed King Cole Bar, where the Bloody Mary was said to be invented. Located next to MoMA, the Baccarat Hotel is as extravagant an experience as you will find in Manhattan, evident as soon as you enter its Grand Salon, with silk–covered walls, fur armchairs, parquet floors, and of course, Baccarat crystal chandeliers.
You are looking for the quintessential New York experience, from the views atop the Top of the Rock observation deck to the neon lights of Times Square and a quaint stroll through Central Park, all while taking in some of the city’s top restaurants. If you want to get lost in the hustle and bustle of one of the busiest business districts in the world and experience New York at 100 miles per hour, Midtown is where you want to be.
