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Top 10 New York City Tourist Attractions and Landmarks

These are New York City's most popular destinations for tourists

By , About.com Guide

Can't decide how to spend your time in New York City? Start with this list of New York City's most popular attractions to get started planning your trip to the Big Apple.

Best Free NYC Attractions | My Favorite Things To See & Do in NYC

1. Empire State Building

Empire State Building

Tired of staring up at New York City skyscrapers? Check out the view of New York City from atop the Empire State Building. Our advice: avoid waiting in the ticket line by buying your tickets online in advance.

2. Statue of Liberty

Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty was a gift to the United States in honor of the friendship established during the French Revolution. The Statue of Liberty has become an American symbol of freedom and welcome to the immigrants who come to the USA looking for a better life.

3. Grand Central Terminal

Grand Central Main Concourse ClockDan Cross
Renovations since its opening in 1913 have turned Grand Central into more than just a hub for transportation -- there are shops, dining and more available to visitors. There are group tours available, as well as free tours for individuals on Wednesdays and Fridays.

5. Ellis Island Immigration Museum

Great Hall at Ellis Island Immigration Museum

The Ellis Island Immigration Museum offers visitors a fascinating look into the immigrant experience. Interactive exhibits, walking tours and movies reveal the hardships and challenges faced by immigrants passing through Ellis Island.

6. Staten Island Ferry

Staten Island Ferry
The Staten Island Ferry is a free ferry from lower Manhattan to Staten Island, used by commuters and tourists wanting a view of the harbor and the Statue of Liberty.

7. American Museum of Natural History

Dinosaur Bones at AMNH

Since opening to the public in 1869, the American Museum of Natural History has evolved and grown. In addition to the Rose Center planetarium and regular exhibits, the American Museum of Natural History hosts a revolving series of new exhibits, so there is always something new to see.

8. Central Park

Central Park's Turtle Pond

Central Park has offered a welcome escape from the concrete jungle of New York City for over 150 years. Take a walk, a boat ride or just enjoy a picnic in Central Park and discover for yourself why Central Park is so popular.

9. Metropolitan Museum of Art

Tiffany Glass at the Metropolitan Museum of Art

Over 2 million works of art from around the world and throughout history are housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. An iconic art museum, the Met is well worth a visit.

10. The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

MoMA EntranceTimothy Hursley
Founded in 1929 as the first museum dedicated entirely to contemporary art, the MoMA is host to an impressive collection of modern artistic efforts. From painting and sculpture to film and architecture, the Museum of Modern Art's diverse collection has something for everyone.

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