Best Instagrammable Spots in New York City
If you’re planning your next visit to New York City, I’m sure there are a few places already on your list. If you’re a first time visitor, you’ll want to snap some photos at all the top attractions: Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, Times Square, etc. Of course, these spots are all iconic a must see. However, if you’re looking to really get to know Manhattan beyond that, I’ve put together this guide with all the best instagrammable spots in New York City.
Uptown
Riverside Park/ Riverbank State Park — these two parks have different names but they’re connected and run along the Hudson River. Riverside Park starts at around 72nd St and ends at 158th St (at this point it’s called Riverbank State Park). If you visit during the spring, make sure to walk along the cherry walk in Riverside Park! In the fall, Riverbank State Park has a nice little tree-lined path where you can get great foliage photos!
Central Park — one of the most famous locations in NYC, Central Park is photo worthy during any season. If you want the best photos though, visit during April to catch the cherry blossoms (see my full NYC cherry blossom guide here: https://mybucketlistjourneys.blog/nyc-cherry-blossom-guide/), or in early November to see colorful foliage. Some of the most iconic spots include: Bethesda Terrace, Gapstow Bridge, Bow Bridge (second image below), The Mall, The Pond, Conservatory Garden
The Met Cloisters — you probably have the Met Museum already on your list, but did you know about the Met Cloisters? Don’t forget to head uptown and visit this hidden gem in Fort Tryon Park. Definitely worth a visit!
Albertine Books — just across from Central Park on Fifth Ave, you’ll find what is (in my opinion) the prettiest bookstore ever! You’ll find this beautiful ceiling on the 2nd floor of the shop.
Roosevelt Island — located between Manhattan and Queens on the East River, Roosevelt Island is accessible by tram, train or car. It’s definitely a different pace than the hustle and bustle of NYC, but a nice little escape for a day trip. My favorite time to visit is in the Spring, when the cherry blossom trees are on full display along the river.
Midtown
There are several observation decks in Manhattan, and each one is worth a visit! One World Observatory (in downtown Manhattan), Empire State Building, Top of the Rock and The Edge (pictured below) are all photo worthy, but my favorite has got to be the recently opened Summit One Vanderbilt.
The Summit One is NYC latest observatory, recently opened this October 2021. There are so many photo worthy rooms, but my favorite has to be this breathtaking room full of mirrors, which looks amazing at any time of day!
The Vessel — cross off two spots in just one visit .. after visiting The Edge, head on over to the Vessel! Be prepared for the workout though!
Grand Central Station — does this place even need an introduction? Grand Central is so much more than just a transportation hub. From shopping to dining and more, you’ll see why this world famous landmark has been featured in so many films.
Penn Station — probably not on your list of train stations worth visiting. After all, Penn Station is not known as the cleanest of train stations. However, the city put millions into renovating the entire train station. Now you can find one of the most instagrammable spots at the exit on 7th Ave and 33rd St.
Downtown
Chinatown — In an effort to regain traffic to Chinatown following the Covid pandemic, Mott St in Chinatown has been lined with beautiful, colorful lanterns, making for a cute photo spot! After snapping some photos, make sure to check out one of the many delicious restaurants in the area!
Maman Soho — a cute little coffee shop that will immediately give you all the Parisian vibes! The decor in the garden gets updated, but regardless of how it looks, you’ll still get amazing photos! There are other locations around the city, too!
The Flour Shop — a bake shop that’s rainbow themed? Say no more! The Flour Shop is known for their colorful, unique explosion cakes. They do serve smaller, more affordable treats to satisfy any sweet tooth! Don’t forget to take a photo in front of this rainbow wall before you go!
Nomo Soho — a hotel and dining spot with a beautiful lush green entry way
Yumi Kim — literally a dumpster against a wall, but the art is updated seasonally. I like to call this “dumpster chic.”
Louis Vuitton Store
Pietro Nolita
Love Shack Fancy — (decor changes seasonally and there are different locations around the city)
The Oculus — one of NYC’s coolest structures and a great photo backdrop
Washington Mews — located within the NYU campus, you’ll find this “private” gated little street which is home to the university’s international houses. Though it’s part of NYU, the gate usually remains open for pedestrians to cross through. Visit in the summer time for the best photos!
Washington Square Park — just next to Washington Mews you’ll find Washington Square Park. Here you’ll find the famous archway, which may remind you of l’Arc de Triomphe in Paris. During the holiday season here in NYC, they place a tree just under the arch.
Hope this list of all the instagrammable spots in New York City was helpful in planning your next trip to NYC! Of course, there are so many more places to be added to this list, so make sure to keep checking back as I continue to update this guide!
Save this on Pinterest for later!
If you enjoyed “Instagrammable Spots in New York City,” you may also want to check out the following posts!
