New York City: 5 must go places for photographers!

(This blog was also published on Cityella.com : here!)

NYC is a large place and there is no way a person would be able to see everything this city has to offer. From the flashy lights of Times Square to beautiful views of the Manhattan Skyline, there are many lookout points for people who are just visiting and live here alike.

1. Times Square


“Oh no” you might say, but the fact of the matter is, Times Square is one of the fascinating places in NYC albeit crowded. No matter what kind of weather, people file into this area to see what it is all about. A DAILY average of 330,000 people walks past this area which includes tourists and those who work/live in the area.

Tip: I would suggest going at night to view the “Midnight Moment” where art is displayed on all of the billboards and newspaper kiosks around Times Square. For the most up to date showing, visit: http://www.timessquarenyc.org/times-square-arts/moment/index.aspx

2.  Brooklyn Bridge Park



Brooklyn Bridge Park is an 85 acre park along the East river with views of the lower Manhattan skyline. From there, you are able to see the Brooklyn Bridge as well as the Manhattan Bridge. In 2010, the park was expanded and included a playground for kids and a picnic area for those who wished to sit and watch the sun set over Manhattan.

Tip: Spend a few hours here with some friends or a loved one. Grab a bite to eat at the restaurants around the area (Grimaldi’s is nearby!) or some ice cream at the Brooklyn Ice Cream factory! There are plenty of people who take pictures of the skyline from here but there is more than enough space for you to bring a tripod for pictures.

3. Gantry State Park


This is actually one of my usual haunts in the city. Located in Long Island City Queens, this is another place for beautiful views of the Manhattan Skyline. This location is currently lesser known than Brooklyn Bridge Park so if you do not want to be disturbed, this is the place to be. Here you will see the Midtown Manhattan Skyline which includes the Empire State Building, UN Building, and the Ed Koch Queensboro bridge.

Tip: As mentioned before, there are less people who come here to photograph the skyline! The famous Pepsi Cola sign is also found here in this park.

4. Central Park


Located right in the middle of Manhattan, it is hard to miss the most visited park in NYC. This 778 acre park will take you the entire day to walk through but there are plenty of things for you to do! During the summer, it hosts free concerts for those who are interested and during the winter there is ice skating at the rink.

Tip: For views of the park, go to the highest viewpoint which is Belvedere Castle. From there you can see the reservoir to the north and the ramble to the south. The park does tend to get crowded, even during the winter. Be prepared to walk fast and stand out of the way! 

5. Views from up top





(View from Rockefeller Center)



(View from Empire State Building)


This isn’t exactly a place but there are two observatories that people can choose from. The Empire State Building and the Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center. Both locations are very close in price but the Empire State building allows you to go higher.

Tip: I recommend the Top of the Rock if you want views of the Empire State Building!

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