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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to the United States

Cool attractions

Exploring the local sights feels more rewarding when the locations have a distinct, interesting edge.

Based on 813 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Ghostbusters Headquarters image 1
Ghostbusters Headquarters image 2
Ghostbusters Headquarters image 3
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Tourist attraction

Firehouse with iconic facade and large red doors stands as a piece of cinematic history and an active fire station. Atmosphere blends nostalgic movie magic with authentic urban grit, attracting fans who enjoy photo opportunities with memorabilia and the iconic Ecto-1 vehicle. Staff often engage visitors, enhancing the lively and immersive vibe.

A cultural landmark known as the Ghostbusters Headquarters draws many visitors. The building remains an active FDNY station, so it is not open as a formal tourist site inside.

A fire station turned into a real-life set from a great movie makes for a very cool photo stop. Movie lovers find it exciting to see this film location in person.

People are saying

"It felt like stepping right into the Ghostbusters movie, totally nostalgic."

"It's a cool place for movie fans to take photos."

"This Ghostbusters firehouse is a must-see tourist attraction for movie fans."

Good to know

1

Visitors are not allowed inside the firehouse, except at the immediate doors to purchase souvenirs.

2

The fire station is still in operation, so visitors should show respect for the firefighters who work there.

3

They only accept cash for merchandise purchases.

02
Flyover image 1
Tourist attraction

A 65-foot spherical screen with moveable chairs simulates flying over the city, creating an immersive and breathtaking experience. The attraction combines phenomenal visuals and sound to showcase unique, straight-down views of the urban landscape. The atmosphere feels like a surreal flying dream with a sense of speed and excitement.

Offers a fresh, awe-inspiring perspective of the city that appeals to both tourists and locals. Combines a unique experience with a gift shop featuring local souvenirs.

Flying over the water with the lake mist adds a breathtaking and exhilarating touch to the experience. The show feels very unique and often exceeds expectations.

People are saying

"It's a fun experience that's uniquely Chicago."

"The immersive ride with wind and mist was a cool 4D experience."

"This tourist attraction makes you feel like you're flying over the city."

Good to know

1

Get your tickets in advance as they sell out quickly.

2

There are stairs to climb inside the attraction, but elevators are available.

3

Flyover is located inside Navy Pier next to the Childrenโ€™s Museum.

03
Madame Tussauds New York image 1

Wax museum offers incredibly lifelike wax figures of celebrities and historical icons across varied themed environments including Marvel and horror setups. Atmosphere blends interactive experiences like dressing up and 4D films with a packed, lively vibe. Spaces are extensive and visually striking, inviting visitors to explore at their own pace.

Known for its lifelike wax figures, this spot ranks as a popular tourist attraction in midtown Manhattan. It draws many visitors interested in celebrity replicas and interactive exhibits.

Exhibits offer close-ups of celebrities with plenty of interactive photo spots. A short 10-minute movie adds to the engaging experience.

People are saying

"It's a unique experience with incredibly lifelike figures."

"I found the experience here to be super cool and so much fun."

"I found Madame Tussauds to be an amazing tourist attraction."

Good to know

1

Buying tickets beforehand saves $10.

2

Tickets to the museum should be reserved in advance.

3

Visitors should allow about 2 hours to properly observe the sculptures.

04
RiseNY image 1
Amusement park ride

Immersive 4D ride offers a bird's-eye view of city landmarks with snow and water effects enhancing realism. The space blends theater and amusement park elements with a replica observation deck for photos. Crowds can be dense, but the experience remains visually stunning and educational.

Exhibits focus on NYC's history and Times Square, resembling other tourist spots like the subway. Some parts feel more like a typical tourist attraction than a deep historical journey.

Immersive and educational, the experience highlights New York's history with neatly put together exhibits. A ride at the end adds a very cool finish to the visit.

People are saying

"This interactive museum experience was amazing and fun."

"The virtual ride over NYC is pretty cool."

"This tourist attraction offers a fun simulation of flying over New York."

Good to know

1

VIP tickets allow you to skip the regular line for faster entry.

2

Expect wait times of up to 1 hour and 45 minutes during peak hours.

3

General admission costs $44 plus tax, which some consider overpriced.

05
Beverly Hills Garden Park image 1

Manicured walking paths wind through lush gardens featuring a century-old fig tree and diverse outdoor sculptures. The atmosphere shifts from peaceful and relaxing to lively with occasional live music and a wine garden. Plenty of benches offer spots to rest while enjoying views of iconic landmarks and greenery.

Tranquility and cleanliness stand out at this garden park, making it a pleasant atmosphere for visitors. It has grown into a popular tourist attraction over time.

Cactus garden and fountains create a cool vibe. A cool sign marks this little park, making it a neat spot to relax or take a short walk.

People are saying

"It's a peaceful green space, a quiet oasis in the city."

"It's a great tourist spot for taking pictures."

"It's a cool place to relax and take a short walk."

Good to know

1

The Great Elephant Migration event runs from July 1 to August 1, 2025.

2

Outdoor concerts and movie screenings take place during the summer months.

3

The park hosts community events like the Beverly Hills Art Show throughout the year.

06
New York Public Library - Stephen A. Schwarzman Building image 1

Historic library building showcases stunning architecture with a breathtaking ceiling and beautiful murals. Quiet reading rooms with laptop sockets offer a calm space for study and reflection. Free admission invites visitors to explore rich collections and enjoy a small cafe and gift shop.

A major tourist attraction with strict bag checks at entry and exit. It serves as a cultural center with spaces for researchers, students, and private studios, not just a place to visit.

Impressive architecture surrounds a vast collection including the original Winnie the Pooh and historical artifacts. The Rose Main Reading Room offers a unique spot to explore these cool treasures.

People are saying

"The Public Library's architecture is monumental and breathtaking."

"I found the building's architecture really cool."

"It's a beautiful building, a stunning tourist attraction."

Good to know

1

Entry to the library is free for all visitors.

2

Guided tours of the Rose Main Reading Room are available multiple times a day.

3

A free tour starts at 11am and 2pm, lasting one hour.

07
Spadena House image 1
Historical landmark

Whimsical storybook-style house with slanted roof, irregular windows, and a weathered exterior creates a magical, fairy-tale atmosphere. The enchanted garden with a bridge and pond adds to its unique charm. It stands out sharply in an upscale neighborhood, drawing attention as a distinctive historic landmark.

A whimsical, storybook-style house draws crowds, especially during Halloween. It stands out as a top tourist attraction for visitors worldwide.

A cool fairytale cottage stands out with its unique, whimsical design. It draws attention especially on Halloween as a popular attraction.

People are saying

"The Spadena House's fairytale architecture makes it a unique tourist attraction."

"Parking was easy and available right on the street."

"I thought the house looked like it was straight out of a fairytale."

Good to know

1

The house is privately owned and cannot be visited.

2

Parking is available right on the street.

3

The house has become a popular tourist attraction, especially during Halloween.

08
Lucy the Elephant image 1
Historical landmark

Elephant-shaped historical landmark offers narrow wooden spiral stairs leading to a 360ยฐ panoramic view including the beach and cityscape. Interior houses a small museum and a gift shop with collectible items. The atmosphere blends nostalgic roadside Americana with lively echoes from visiting families.

A roadside attraction shaped like an elephant stands out as the oldest surviving of its kind in America. Its unique and oddball design draws attention as a small but notable tourist spot.

A six-story tall elephant structure offers a unique and educational experience. Climbing to the top provides a very cool view and a chance to explore inside the belly of the elephant.

People are saying

"I thought Lucy the Elephant was a super cool roadside attraction."

"The view from the top is amazing, totally worth the climb."

"You can tour this historic 1881 elephant, a unique roadside attraction."

Good to know

1

Visitors on July 20th can witness her yearly manicure.

2

Tours are scheduled at specific times, every 45 minutes.

3

Parking is limited; expect only a few spaces available.

09
Times Square image 1

Plaza buzzes with bright lights and massive digital billboards that create a unique vibe day and night. Crowds gather around live street performances and entertainers, filling the space with constant energy and diverse languages. A large staircase offers a spot to rest and take in the vibrant scene.

Bright lights and massive crowds mark this global icon. It stands as one of the most visited and recognized tourist attractions representing the United States.

Bright billboards light up the area day and night, creating a lively and busy atmosphere. Shops stay open late, and the mix of people and street performers adds to the dynamic vibe.

People are saying

"It's so lively with all the bright lights and hustle and bustle."

"It's a cool experience, even with the crowds."

"I found it to be a fun, iconic tourist attraction."

Good to know

1

Expect large crowds during the New Year's celebration in Times Square.

2

Avoid visiting Times Square on weekends due to heavy foot traffic.

3

Be cautious of costumed characters asking for money after taking photos.

10
Water Wall image 1
Tourist attraction

Towering stony structure with cascading waterfalls creates a mesmerizing water art centerpiece. Surrounding open garden and grassy areas offer peaceful spots with benches for relaxation and picnics. Atmosphere stays serene and cool, attracting families and photographers throughout the day and night.

Water Wall stands out as a popular tourist attraction downtown. It offers a visually striking experience near the Galleria area.

A cool oasis with beautiful water and a refreshing mist. The sound of rushing water creates a peaceful, calm escape from the city's heat and noise.

People are saying

"The sound of the water creates a peaceful, calming atmosphere here."

"I found the Water Wall to be a cool, refreshing spot with a misty atmosphere."

"I found Water Wall to be a really nice tourist attraction."

Good to know

1

Access to Water Wall is free.

2

Water Wall is open 24 hours.

3

There is paid parking right across the street from Water Wall.

11
Edge NYC image 1
Tourist attraction

Observation platform on the 100th floor offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline and landmarks. Large open-air terrace with glass floor creates a thrilling sensation of suspension above the city. Visitors engage with modern attractions like outdoor stairs and harnessed rappelling for immersive experiences.

A splendid view of Manhattan stands out as the main draw. The spot turns into a nightclub, adding a unique twist to the usual tourist experience. Crowds make picture-taking tricky but expected.

Amazing 360ยฐ city views come with a glass floor that offers a thrilling perspective. The elevator walls show a movie, and a rooftop porch lets you step outside for fresh air and cool sights.

People are saying

"The view of New York City from here is fantastic."

"The views from above are amazing and totally worth seeing."

"The tourist attractions offer an amazing 360ยฐ view of NYC."

Good to know

1

Booking for 6:45 PM is recommended to watch the sunset.

2

It is necessary to book an entry time.

3

The view from the top is a 360-degree panorama of the Manhattan skyline and the Hudson River.

12
Charging Bull image 1
Sculpture

Bronze sculpture symbolizes Wall Street's resilience and draws lively crowds with lines forming for photos and touching. Area buzzes with tourists and locals, featuring a vintage camera photographer who prints pictures on themed newspaper pages. Atmosphere shifts from quiet mornings to energetic, playful vibes amid the financial district.

A crowded tourist attraction in the downtown district, it draws many visitors despite starting with a temporary permit. It offers a fun experience but is not the ultimate city highlight.

The Charging Bull sculpture stands out as a really cool sight to see in person. Nearby, a vintage camera guy prints photos on newspaper pages for just a tip, adding a unique touch.

People are saying

"It's a fun spot with a lively, energetic vibe."

"This iconic historical site symbolizes American capitalism and financial optimism."

"The Charging Bull is a must-see tourist attraction, full of power."

Good to know

1

Entry to Charging Bull is free.

2

Expect long wait times due to heavy tourist traffic.

3

Vendors may take pictures of visitors without permission.

13
Giant Eyeball image 1
Tourist attraction

Giant human eyeball sculpture stands as a distinctive art landmark in a lively downtown setting. Colorful lights illuminate the sculpture at night, creating a vibrant atmosphere that invites strolling and photography. Surrounding benches and greenery offer a pleasant spot to relax amid nearby music and urban energy.

A giant eyeball sculpture stands as a quirky and unexpected tourist attraction downtown. It stays covered on all sides to prevent damage and sits near many activities like shopping and eating.

A 30-foot Giant Eyeball sculpture stands as a unique and cool attraction. It draws attention for fun photos and selfies, even when gated off or showing signs of vandalism.

People are saying

"The Giant Eyeball is a pretty cool landmark to see."

"I found the view of the Giant Eyeball striking and surreal."

"The Giant Eyeball is a cool, free tourist attraction."

Good to know

1

The Giant Eyeball is gated off and closed to the public most of the time.

2

Events occasionally allow visitors to get closer to the sculpture.

3

Parking near the Giant Eyeball can be difficult, especially on busy days.

14
Beverly Hills Sign image 1
Tourist attraction

Iconic sign sits above a reflective pond surrounded by palm trees and beautiful landscaping. The area offers a quiet, peaceful atmosphere with chic, upscale vibes and scenic walking paths. It attracts many for photography and leisurely strolls amid luxury homes and serene park settings.

A heavy tourist attraction known for its photo ops, this sign draws many visitors. It is a free spot popular for capturing cool landmarks.

The area offers a cool iconic sign surrounded by nature and spots perfect for taking pictures or relaxing.

People are saying

"I loved taking a picture at the iconic Beverly Hills Sign in this beautiful park."

"It's a cool, iconic spot for taking great pictures."

"I took a great photo at this free tourist attraction."

Good to know

1

Admission to the Beverly Hills Sign is free.

2

Parking is free for the first two hours, with metered spaces available.

3

The park has clean public restrooms for visitors.

15
Starbucks Coffee Company image 1

Small space with vintage decor and the original brown logo creates a historic, nostalgic vibe. Crowds gather for exclusive mugs and souvenirs featuring the early Starbucks design. Atmosphere feels cozy despite heavy foot traffic and limited seating.

Lines form to snap photos of the original logo found only here. The store opened in 1971 and stands as a historic site within Pike Place Market, drawing many visitors.

Coffee cups tossing catches the eye with its unique flair. The presence of the first Starbucks store adds a historic and cool vibe.

People are saying

"This historical site feels symbolic and personal, not modern."

"It was cool to see where Starbucks started."

"This original Starbucks is a historic tourist attraction."

Good to know

1

The lineup begins at 9:20 AM for a 10:00 AM opening.

2

Expect a long line, but the wait is about 20 minutes.

3

Public parking is available across the street from the Starbucks.

16
M&M'S New York image 1
Candy store

Three-story candy store filled with colorful M&M displays and interactive stations offers a playful atmosphere perfect for families and kids. Visitors can create personalized M&Ms and enjoy photo opportunities with giant character statues. The space combines bright visuals with a fun, lighthearted vibe.

A wide variety of colors and flavors of M&M'S draws many visitors. Its location near other popular stores makes it a common stop for tourists. Restroom facilities do not meet expectations for a Times Square attraction.

Unique flavors and the ability to create M&Ms with your photo make this store stand out. It offers cool merchandise and an experiential vibe suitable for all ages.

People are saying

"My kids had so much fun here, it's definitely kid friendly."

"It's a really cool shop with colorful things."

"It's a cool tourist attraction in the middle of Times Square."

Good to know

1

Expect a 40-minute wait in line for personalizing items.

2

Prices are significantly higher than grocery stores, with two plastic boxes costing $32.

3

M&M's World is open daily from 9 AM to midnight.

17
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt image 1

Observation deck offers 360ยฐ panoramic views of the city skyline, including close-up sights of iconic buildings. Interactive features like a balloon room and mirrored installations create a unique, immersive atmosphere. A small cafe and cocktail bar provide refreshments while guests enjoy the spectacular cityscape.

Located on the upper floors, this spot offers panoramic city views and easy access to many nearby attractions. The restaurant prices stay reasonable despite the tourist-heavy location, making it a solid choice for visitors.

The summit offers cool activities that stand out. The overall experience feels very cool and engaging.

People are saying

"The city views here are spectacular, especially with the mirror effects."

"The city views and mirror effects here are really cool."

"The views from this tourist attraction are beautiful and unforgettable."

Good to know

1

Tickets should be booked in advance as the attraction is very crowded.

2

If you want to see the sunset, book your timeslot at least an hour earlier.

3

You must make a reservation and arrive at least 15 minutes before your check-in time.

18
Jungle Queen Riverboat image 1
Tourist attraction

Old-style riverboat cruises through waterways lined with waterfront mansions and luxury yachts. Tropical island stop features tiki huts and a Polynesian dance show. Evening rides offer a peaceful atmosphere with music and views of night lights on the water.

The Jungle Queen Riverboat offers a classic sightseeing experience on the water. It stands out as a popular tourist attraction with engaging river tours.

A boat ride passes mega yachts and mansions, offering views of million dollar houses. The tour includes a fire dance show and a stop on a cool island, with high speed sightseeing to various locations.

People are saying

"The staff on the private island were excellent and friendly."

"The boat ride was cool, passing mega yachts and mansions."

"I found the Jungle Queen Riverboat to be a great tourist attraction."

Good to know

1

Arrive 45 minutes early as the boat departs on time without waiting.

2

Parking is difficult and may take up to 90 minutes to leave after the event.

3

The Polynesian show lasts 15 minutes and features engaging dancers.

19
World of Coca-Cola image 1

Museum offers a bright, modern design with interactive exhibits and a unique tasting room featuring over 100 beverages from around the world. Atmosphere is high energy with many photo opportunities and engaging displays that avoid typical museum static. Crowds can be busy but generally do not overwhelm the experience.

A tourist attraction centered on a soda brand offers a cute and enjoyable experience. It showcases how a company selling carbonated sugar drinks creates a unique visit.

The tasting room offers a unique and interactive experience. Photos get incorporated into an old-fashioned soda bar using AI, adding a cool twist.

People are saying

"It's so fun and Kid Friendly with all the interactive exhibits."

"I found the experience here to be very cool."

"I found visiting this tourist attraction to be enjoyable."

Good to know

1

Admission costs $25 per person, with military personnel entering free.

2

Parking costs $25 at the onsite deck.

3

The tour lasts between 1.5 to 2 hours.

20
Katz's Delicatessen image 1

Rustic deli with tight seating and a nostalgic 70s decor creates a crowded, lively atmosphere. Meat carvers serve as a focal point, offering tastings that engage diners. Walls display celebrity portraits, adding to the historic vibe.

The spot draws crowds as a popular tourist attraction known for its unique experience. It stands out as a place many visit specifically for its distinctive charm.

Busy atmosphere feels cool inside with a vibe that recalls old New York. Photos of celebrities and watching sandwiches made at the counter add to the world-class taste experience.

People are saying

"The pastrami sandwich here is piled high and melt-in-your-mouth tender."

"The pastrami sandwich here is unbelievably delicious."

"I found it to be a must-visit tourist attraction."

Good to know

1

The wait for the Katz Pastrami Sandwich can be an hour long.

2

You can only pay with cash at the front of the restaurant.

3

Do not lose your tickets even if you haven't used them to order anything.

21
Pod Times Square image 1

Rooms are compact yet cleverly designed with modern amenities and individual TVs in each bunk. The atmosphere is quiet and relaxing, even on upper floors overlooking stunning city views. Security is tight with keycard access restricting floor entry, creating a safe environment.

Location offers walking distance access to most tourist spots, typically between 10 to 25 minutes away. Close proximity to public transport and main attractions makes getting around easy.

Rooms offer a cool view of the Empire State Building, great for photos. The lobby and nightclub near the elevator have a cool vibe with music and drinks available.

People are saying

"This hotel's location is great, just a block from Times Square."

"It's so close to major tourist attractions, you can walk everywhere."

"It's cool how close it is to Times Square and the subway."

Good to know

1

The hotel is in a great central location, a few minutes from Times Square.

2

Expect a 40-minute wait if rooms are not ready upon arrival.

3

You must request cleaning in advance by completing a form at reception.

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