Attracting over 60 million visitors in 2023, New York City is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the US. The “city that never sleeps” is known for its incredible skyline, bustling streets and diverse community, but amid the crowds and tourist hotspots, there are also quieter pockets where you can sit and absorb the view.
From the sparkling lights of Times Square to the sweeping vistas of Brooklyn Bridge Park, New York City has postcard-worthy spots in all corners of the city.
This is perhaps why it has been dubbed the “prettiest city” for summer holidays. long-haul travel specialists, Travelbag analysed Instagram hashtag data and Google search trends for 100 of the most popular cities around the world, to determine the “best” destination for a “picturesque” holiday.
“New York is crowned the most picturesque summer destination, with over 36,773 Instagram posts tagged #SummerinNewYork and 6,600 Google searches per month,” stated the report.
“New York ranks as the most picturesque city in the world during summer, with 36,773 Instagram posts dedicated to its summertime allure, as well as 6,600 Google searches per month.”
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The experts named Central Park as a “summer haven”, perfect for photography enthusiasts or those who simply want to relax and soak up the summer views.
“Central Park is a summer haven, boasting extensive green space where visitors can enjoy the summer sun with a picnic or by heading down to Central Park Boathouse to rent a rowboat,” said Travelbag.
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Central Park is the most visited urban park in the US, with an estimated 42million visitors annually as of 2016.
The park spans approximately 843 acres, making space for gardens, hills and forests, as well as 21 playgrounds, a winter ice-skating rink, eight lakes and ponds, numerous fountains, bridges and monuments and even the impressive Central Park Zoo.
Home to a network of footpaths, if you were to walk every single one you could find yourself covering a total 58 miles.
Though the park is just a 20-minute walk from Grand Central Station, once inside it isn’t hard to escape the busy streets beyond the park gates.
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Times Square is another iconic hotspot of the city, which is why it draws an estimated 360,000 pedestrian visitors a day – amounting to 131 million per year. The constant foot traffic has seen Times Square dubbed the most visited place globally.
While the crowds may turn some people off, it’s a spot not to be missed. The square is a cultural hub full of theatres, music halls, and upscale hotels, but is mainly known for its impressive flashing, colourful, digital billboards and incredible signage.
It’s also the home of the famous annual New Year’s Eve Carnival and Ball Drop.
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