Guides

29 Beautiful and Best Places to Take Pictures in NYC

by: Anelisa Nokoyo

Published on Nov 21st 2024

Are you planning a trip to the Big Apple and looking for the best places to take pictures in NYC? Capturing your memories is one of the most important aspects of any trip and the memories you make form part of the souvenirs you’ll take home with you. New York is just the place, too, with iconic landmarks at every corner, and a palpable energy that’ll bring out your inner photographer. Here are some of the best places to take pictures in NYC, no matter what time of year you visit.

Best Places to Take Pictures in NYC for Couples

1. DUMBO, Brooklyn

The cobblestone streets and industrial-chic atmosphere of DUMBO make it the ideal urban spot for a couple’s photoshoot and one of the best places to take pictures in NYC to capture the city’s spirit. Don't miss the famous view from Washington Street, where you can capture the Manhattan Bridge framed by brick buildings. Dumbo also offers a variety of trendy cafes and boutiques that are picturesque date ideas in NYC for a post-walk photoshoot.

What’s a great way to make the most of a New York date night? Turn it into a fun learning experience by taking photography classes in NYC. Improve your photo-taking skills and capture even better memories. Learn the basics of photography from the comfort of your home before hitting the streets of NYC with online photography classes. Alternatively, you can join a local expert for hands-on instruction in some of the city's most photogenic locations. Both are excellent New York experience gifts for the couple who loves to explore and create together.

2. Top of the Rock

The best places to take pictures in NYC for breathtaking views of the city is Top of the Rock observation deck at Rockefeller Center. From here, you can enjoy 360-degree views of Manhattan, including Central Park and the Empire State Building — both stunning backdrops for romantic photos. Don't forget to visit during sunset for a truly magical experience as the city lights begin to twinkle. Purchase tickets in advance to avoid long lines and secure your spot.

Secret Places to Take Pictures in NYC

3. Flushing’s Chinatown

Often overlooked in favor of Manhattan's Chinatown, Flushing's Chinatown in Queens is just as authentic and an ideal spot for a colorful street photography moment. In fact, it has the largest Chinese population outside Asia, according to Business Insider. You can take pictures along the busy streets and capture ornate architecture, but it’s also one of the best places to take pictures in NYC for foodies.

Known as the "food mecca" for Chinese regional cuisine, you can snap some shots of mouthwatering Asian delicacies and interesting finds like mochi donuts, Chili Oil Wontons, and juicy dumplings. While you can stroll the busy streets and take shots of all the bright lights, there’s no shortage of indoor activities in NYC to enjoy in Flushing’s Chinatown, especially all the food courts.

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4. Staten Island Ferry

While this location is typically used to transport people from St. George Terminal on Staten Island and the Whitehall Terminal in Lower Manhattan, it's also an iconic New York spot and a one-of-a-kind photo op. For the best shots, hop on right before or after rush hour, which is from 6 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. You can also snap a cozy portrait on a bench or frame yourself beside a ferry with the city skyline or the Statue of Liberty as your backdrop. Why is this one of the best places to take pictures in NYC? Because it’s free to ride.

5. Greenacre Park

While Central Park may be on your NYC must-see list, don’t overlook Green Acres Park. Located near the upscale Turtle Bay area, this privately owned park is filled with art galleries offering a unique view of local New York that’ll add a refreshing twist to your photo album. It’s one of the best places to take pictures in NYC if you’re more into nature photography. The waterfall is premium IG framing.

6. Old City Hall Station

While you can’t access this abandoned platform directly, you can catch a glimpse of its stunning arched ceilings and intricate tilework by staying on the Downtown 6 train as it loops around after the Brooklyn Bridge stop. The photos you capture as the train passes through make a unique addition to your collection of New York’s hidden architectural landmarks, some of the best places to take pictures in NYC if you want to practice dynamic photography. If you do want to visit, you'll have to become a member, get on the waiting list and then pay the fee.

7. Green-Wood Cemetery

This historic cemetery in Brooklyn offers a hauntingly beautiful setting for photography. With its jagged Gothic Revival architecture, rolling hills, and famous residents (like Leonard Bernstein and Jean-Michel Basquiat), it's one of the best places to take pictures in NYC for more unique atmospheric shots, especially in Spring when the cherry blossoms bloom or in early Autumn when the leaves start changing color.

8. The Elevated Acre

The Elevated Acre is a hidden park tucked away in the Financial District. It offers picturesque views of the East River and Brooklyn Bridge which are some of the best places to take pictures in NYC for practicing urban landscape photography. The park is elevated above street level, providing a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city below.

9. The Whispering Arch in Grand Central Terminal

Located right outside the Oyster Bar & Restaurant, this unique landmark is a nice quirky spot to take memorable photos. You can snap shots of friends whispering into opposite corners of the arched entryway which can be some of the best places to take pictures in NYC if you’d like to get some cheesy NYC must-have shots.

Best Places to Take Pictures in NYC at Night

10. The Brooklyn Bridge

New York comes alive at night and no place represents the energy of this city better than the Brooklyn Bridge. This famous bridge has been featured in blockbuster films like John Wick and I Am Legend and offers breathtaking views of the New York skyline at night. This well-known scene is definitely one of the best places to take pictures in NYC for movie fanatics.

11. Empire State Building

Whether you're shooting from the observation deck or capturing the building itself from street level, the Empire State Building is one of the best places to take pictures in NYC for night photography, although it can be pretty epic in the day too, when the weather permits. Its Art Deco design and colorful light displays make for stunning images.

12. Times Square

Also known as the "Crossroads of the World," Times Square is a photographer's dream at night. The neon lights, billboards and constant flow of people create an electric atmosphere perfect for vibrant night shots and long exposures. It’s a great place to practice photography for beginners or master the rule of thirds.

13. The Vessel at Hudson Yards

At night, this quintessential New York landmark transforms into a radiant architectural sculpture that’s one of the best places to take pictures in NYC for nighttime photography. Be sure to capture its intricate honeycomb pattern as it glows against the dark sky.

14. Coney Island

For a different kind of night photography, head to Coney Island. This amusement park's colorful lights and classic rides will give your holiday snaps a nostalgic and whimsical backdrop. If you’re a tourist, one of the best places to take pictures in NYC is the “Greetings from Coney Island” mural.

Best Places to Take Pictures in Downtown NYC

15. One World Observatory

The observation deck at One World Trade Center is the place to go for some of the best places to take pictures in NYC with unmatched views of the city. From here, you can snap sweeping shots of the Manhattan skyline, Brooklyn Bridge and more.

16. The Oculus

The Oculus is an eye-catching multi-purpose building that serves as a transport hub and retail space for New Yorkers. Thanks to its sleek, ribbed design and skylight, it’s one of the best places to take pictures in NYC for a unique and one-of-a-kind photo opportunity.

17. Wall Street

Photograph the core of New York's financial district, including the iconic New York Stock Exchange, the bold Charging Bull, and its buildings that offer a striking blend of old and new architecture. The juxtaposition of historic landmarks and modern skyscrapers creates a dynamic visual representation that’s one of the best places to take pictures in NYC to show off the city's financial power.

18. South Street Seaport

In this historic area, you’ll find a mix of 19th-century architecture, cobblestone streets, and views of the Brooklyn Bridge. It's particularly charming during golden hour when the setting sun casts a warm glow over the buildings and the bridge, creating a picturesque scene that’s one of the best places to take pictures in NYC to capture the New York vibe.

19. The African Burial Ground National Monument

Just two blocks from City Hall Park lies a memorial honoring over 15,000 enslaved and free Africans buried here from the 1630s to 1795. This site, the largest of its kind in the U.S., was rediscovered and designated a National Historic Landmark in 1993, recognizing the deep ties between slavery and New York's history. No tour reservations are needed to visit and capture a piece of American history, making this spot not only one of the best places to take pictures in NYC, but also a brilliant opportunity to learn about its troubled past.

20. The Irish Hunger Memorial

Located near Battery Park City, this lesser-known memorial features Irish ruins, native plants, and a recreated cottage that make great subjects for still life and architectural photography. The Irish Hunger Memorial is also a peaceful and educational spot to learn about the Great Famine in Ireland and pay tribute to those affected by it by capturing the various inscriptions and plaques featured throughout.

Best Places to Take Pictures in Times Square

21. TKTS Red Stairs

TKTS new york — *TKTS New York (via Ajay Suresh; CC BY 2.0)*

Probably one of the quintessential and best places to take pictures in NYC, get an elevated view of the square from the iconic red steps of the TKTS booth. Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and get a clear shot of the bustling intersection below. As the day goes on, the steps get crowded with tourists and theatergoers looking to snag discounted tickets.

22. Times Square Pedestrian Plaza

Times Square is one of the most photographed locations in the world, so there’s no doubt that it’s one of the best places to take pictures in NYC. But, there are still ways to capture unique shots by positioning yourself in the middle of the pedestrian plaza. Consider experimenting with long exposures to capture the flow of people and traffic.

23. Times Square Subway Station

The subway entrance is an interesting foreground element that can enhance your Times Square photos. Try shooting during blue hour for one of the best places to take pictures in NYC as day becomes night — a nice balance of artificial and natural light.

24. Madame Tussauds New York

For a fun twist on the usual architectural and cultural shots, incorporate some of the lifelike wax figures from Madame Tussauds into your Times Square shots. Just be sure to check their photography policy first. Some museums may have restrictions on using flash photography or tripods, so it's always best to double-check before snapping away.

25. Broadway Theaters

Capture the magic of the infamous NYC Broadway by photographing the ornate marquees and neon signs of the theater district. The New Amsterdam Theatre and the Lyceum Theatre are particularly photogenic for some of the best places to take pictures in NYC.

Best Outdoor Places to Take Pictures in NYC

26. Metropolitan Museum of Art Rooftop

The rooftop at the Metropolitan Museum of Art is adorned with beautiful decor and art and provides a spectacular view of Central Park and the Manhattan skyline. While it is definitely one of the best places to take pictures in NYC, it can be tricky to locate, so don’t hesitate to ask for directions inside the museum. Also, make sure to purchase your tickets in advance for quicker access and to avoid waiting.

27. Central Park

Of course, no list of iconic best places to take pictures in NYC would be complete without Central Park. There are numerous places to take pictures here, including the Bethesda Terrace and Fountain, the Lake and Bow Bridge, Belvedere Castle, and the Sheep Meadow with the skyline backdrop.

28. Take a Picture Outside Carrie Bradshaw’s Stoop

Whether you’re a fan of Sex and the City or not, there’s no denying the impact this award-winning TV show has had on New York culture. And now, you can capture one of the most prominent parts of the show — Carrie Bradshaw’s apartment — and take yourself down memory lane. You can take a picture right in front of Carrie’s apartment stoop, which is located at 64 Perry Street in the West Village. Grab your cosmopolitan, one of the best cocktails, shopping bags and stilettos as you recreate scenes from the series. "And Just Like That…" you’ve captured one of the best places to take pictures in NYC.

29. Washington Square Park

This Greenwich Village landmark is great for people-watching and one of the best places to take pictures in NYC for architectural shots. The Washington Square Arch, framed by the surrounding buildings, makes for a classic NYC photo and you’ll probably spot street performers, musicians, and locals enjoying the green space.

Best Places to Take Pictures in NYC FAQs

Where Is the Best Place To Take Pictures in NYC?

The best place to take pictures in NYC depends on the types of photos you want to capture and the time of day you’re taking pictures. However, there are certain locations that consistently rank as top choices, including:

Central Park: Has a wide range of landscapes and iconic structures.
Brooklyn Bridge: Provides stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and architectural details.
Top of the Rock (Rockefeller Center): Offers panoramic views of the city, including Central Park and the Empire State Building.
DUMBO, Brooklyn: Famous for its cobblestone streets and Manhattan Bridge views.

What Is the Most Photographed Place in NYC?

While it’s difficult to pinpoint just one popular spot, Times Square is definitely one of the most photographed locations in New York City, if not the world. With 380,000 pedestrians entering daily, this busy spot makes for amazing photo opportunities. The Apple Store on 5th Avenue is another very popular spot for photo opportunities and regarded as one of the most photographed attractions in NYC.

What Is the Best Street in NYC for Photos?

There’s no shortage of photogenic streets in New York, but few stand out as some of the best places to take pictures in NYC:

St. Luke's Place, West Village: This is a picturesque tree-lined street with beautiful townhouses.
Washington Street, DUMBO: This street is famous for its view of the Manhattan Bridge framed by brick buildings.
Troutman Street, Bushwick: Known for its incredible Bushwick street art murals, this street is part of the Bushwick Collective open-air gallery.
The Bowery, Lower East Side: This one is a mix of old and new architecture with plenty of the best NYC street art.

Where Is the Best Place To Take a Picture of Times Square?

If you’re going to take a picture anywhere in Times Square, it has to be TKTS Red Steps. Thanks to its elevated position, this spot gives you a wide vantage point to capture the overall atmosphere of Times Square.

There’s clearly no shortage of incredible, once-in-a-lifetime locations to take pictures in New York that will cement your visit to this world-class city. Whether you're capturing the flashing lights of Times Square, the relaxing landscapes of Central Park, or the stunning downtown architecture, there's always something new to discover as you try to capture the best places to take pictures in NYC.

For even more fun NYC ideas, check out other experiences happening on Classpop.