Last Updated on August 20, 2024 by Cristina
By Charlotte Dow. This guide to the best photo spots in New York contains affiliate links to trusted partners!
Looking for the best places to take pictures in NYC?
Then you’re in the right place!
New York City’s five boroughs showcase loads of incredible sights. From iconic skyscrapers to behemoth bridges to parks and gardens that showcase nature’s wonders, the city is full of things to see – and photograph!
Photographers have been making their way to New York City since the invention of the camera in the hopes of capturing its unique architecture, culture, and landscape.
This is definitely true in the Instagram age, where a good picture is worth a thousand likes.
Of course, with so many amazing attractions and spots to capture on camera, you may be wondering where to start. To help, we’ve compiled a list of the 31 best places to take pictures in New York City, with options for all five boroughs.
Whether you’re scoping out a location for a family photoshoot or just looking to freshen up your grid, we’ve got you covered. Read on to learn more about our favorite photography spots in NYC.
Explore NYC With A Professional Photographer (Photos Included!)
Do you love having your photo taken? Before we dive into our list of NYC photo spots, here is a little shameless plug:
Our private NYC Photo Journey is the perfect way to explore some of the most scenic places in New York — and leave with professional photos of your group to keep.
Choose one of our suggested itineraries — which include gorgeous locations like Central Park, the Brooklyn Bridge, and DUMBO — or have our team customize something for you.
Want photos but don’t really care about the tour aspect? Our Professional NYC Photoshoots come with even more photos, outfit changes, and a pre-shoot consultation!
To see recent photo examples, you can visit us on Instagram (@NYCPhotoTour).
Traveling solo? New York City is one of the best places to travel alone in the United States — especially as these shoots ensure you actually have beautiful photos to commemorate your trip (no selfie stick required!).
Best Places To Take Pictures In Manhattan
1. Feel like you’re on top of the world at One World Trade Center
Whether you’re viewing this majestic skyscraper from the street or taking in the panoramic city views from One World Observatory, One World Trade Center makes for one of the best photo spots in NYC.
In the short few years since the building first opened, it has quickly become an iconic part of the Lower Manhattan skyline.
The shining glass tower stands out in any photo and the floor-to-ceiling windows of the observatory allow you to pose like you’re on top of the world.
Speaking of skylines, there are a number of unforgettable Manhattan skyline tours available by boat, land, and sea.
2. Take in iconic NYC views at the Empire State Building
Few buildings are more synonymous with New York City than the Empire State Building.
Head up to the observatories on the 86th and 102nd floors of the building for some of the most incredible views of the city and plenty of perfect photo opportunities.
And with its late operating hours and amazing nightly light show, the Empire State Building is also one of the best places to take pictures in NYC at night.
Visiting with your sweetheart? It’s also a popular NYC anniversary spot!
3. Get caught up in the hustle and bustle of Grand Central Terminal
With its dazzling ceiling mural and iconic Beaux-Arts design, Grand Central Terminal’s Main Concourse has captured the imaginations of tourists and daily commuters alike for over a century. It’s one of the cool places to take pictures in NYC.
Whether you’re capturing the hustle and bustle of rush hour or staging an individual photoshoot, you’re sure to get some great shots at this historic Midtown train station.
Pro tip:
Stop by the station outside of the morning and evening rush hour periods for less crowded shots and an easier shoot overall.
4. Feel like a star of stage and screen at Rockefeller Center
There are few places quite like Rockefeller Center when it comes to classic New York buildings.
With its multiple buildings and iconic plaza, Rockefeller Center offers plenty of great spots to take pictures any time of year.
Head up to the Top of the Rock Observation Deck for incredible views of Central Park and Midtown or pose outside the famous Radio City Music Hall, located right next door.
5. Do some people (and plant) watching at Washington Square Park
Considered the Arc de Triomphe of Manhattan, the Washington Square Arch in Washington Square Park is one of the great symbols of the city.
The Arch and the nearby fountain on the park’s central plaza offer the perfect backdrop for any New York photoshoot, making the park one of the most Instagrammable places in NYC.
More of a nature lover?
The park has plenty of trees, flowers, and plants to enhance any photo, whether you’re shooting with a macro lens or just playing around with the settings on your iPhone camera.
Visiting and photographing Washington Square Park is one of the top things to do in the West Village.
6. Indulge your inner book lover at the New York Public Library
Featured in movies like Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Ghostbusters, Sex and the City: The Movie and many more, the New York Public Library’s Stephen A. Schwartzman Building has been a favorite New York photo spot for decades.
Pose on the iconic steps outside the building or get a wide shot of the breathtaking interiors of the Rose Reading Room.
And don’t forget to say hello to Patience and Fortitude, the giant lion statues that guard the library’s main entrance.
Want beautiful photos taken of you in scenic New York spots? Book one of our Private Photo Journeys, a walking tour that includes photos of your group to keep. Or get a styled, custom shoot that tells your unique story through an NYC Influencer Shoot or Professional New York City Shoot. Email [email protected] with inquiries.
7. Revel in an urban oasis at Madison Square Park
As one of Manhattan’s most lush urban oases, Madison Square Park is one of the most pretty places to take pictures in Manhattan, particularly in the spring and summer.
The park features tons of incredible trees and flowers that beg to be photographed and even a few critters who are far from camera shy.
You’ll also find great views of the historic Flatiron Building at the park’s southwest corner that you’ll definitely want to capture on camera.
It’s definitely one of the best free places to take pictures in NYC!
8. Take it to the edge at Hudson Yards
Completed in 2019, Hudson Yards is one of the newest NYC photography spots on the scene.
This area on Manhattan’s West Side features plenty of great photo opportunities from The Edge, a skydeck offering 360-degree views of the city, to The Vessel, a 16-story structure featuring interconnected staircases.
You’ll also snag great views of the Hudson River, best captured on the nearby High Line.
9. Get creative along the High Line
Speaking of the High Line, when you’re looking for epic Manhattan photo spots, don’t pass up a chance to explore this scenic and historic attraction.
This elevated park—which was once home to a railway that brought goods to the factories of the Meatpacking District—offers variety. You’ll with wild urban gardens, rotating public art installations, and fantastic city views.
Keep your eyes peeled for landmarks like the Empire State Building and iconic attractions like Chelsea Market and Chelsea Piers.
Between W. 12th and W. 14th Streets, look for the forest and then walk through the building underpasses. The observation deck at W. 17th Street offers all kinds of opportunities for creative shots.
Also, the extension near Hudson Yards boasts a mix of natural and urban vibes with the ultra-modern Shed at the center!
Honestly, the High Line offers great photo opportunities every step of the way, so you can enter at either end and simply wander without a plan.
10. Explore Manhattan’s underground at the City Hall Subway Station
For a peek into Manhattan’s storied past, head to the City Hall Subway Station.
This station, closed to normal subway traffic in 1945, features the domed tiled ceilings and chandeliers that were common in New York City subway stations during the turn of the century and will really make you feel like you’re stepping back in time.
Today, the station is only accessible via tours offered by the New York Transit Museum, but personal photography is more than welcome on the tour, as long as you don’t bring a tripod.
Though it’s a bit tricky to access, City Hall Subway Station is definitely one of the best secret places to take pictures in NYC.
Pro tip:
Even if you can’t get on a tour, you can always stay on the 6-train at Brooklyn Bridge-City Hall.
When the conductor tells everyone to get off (because it’s the last stop), stay on. The train will loop through the old City Hall Station and right back into Brooklyn Bridge-City Hall for a quick and scenic ride.
11. Pose at the Crossroads of the World in Times Square
Times Square has to be one of the most iconic spots to take pictures in NYC, whether you’re visiting for the first time or the fortieth.
The “Crossroads of the World” makes the perfect backdrop for a classic NYC photoshoot, with plenty of lights and glamour.
If you want to avoid the crowds, try visiting early in the morning or later in the evening after the theater crowds have dissipated — this way, you’ll have plenty of room to set up your shot.
12. Explore the castles, fountains & forests of Central Park
Central Park’s 843 acres of open space contain tons of amazing Instagram spots that will definitely bring in the likes.
Top Central Park photo spots like Bethesda Terrace and Fountain, Loeb’s Boathouse, and Belvedere Castle make for great pictures any time of year and will make you feel like you’ve left the concrete jungle behind. These romantic places are also great when exploring Central Park for couples!
Want to escape the crowds? Head up north to the North Woods, a forested area full of opportunities for hiking in Manhattan and bird-watching. It’s one of the best places to take pictures in Harlem, especially as you’ll find a waterfall here (not to mention it’s also a safe place for hiking solo).
Pro tip:
While Central Park is a top photo spot year-round, it’s one of the best places to explore fall in New York City thanks to the foliage. And when the weather is nice, it’s one of the top NYC picnic spots.
13. See and be seen at the Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Metropolitan Museum of Art — one of the top attractions in the Upper East Side — features tons of great photo spots, both inside the storied building and out.
Gossip Girl fans will definitely want to snap a pic or two on the famous steps leading up to the Met, Blair and Serena’s favorite coffee spot.
Inside, grab photos of the famous Temple of Dendur, or head up to the roof where you’ll find incredible sculpture exhibits and amazing views of Central Park.
14. Take in the sights of Doyers Street in Chinatown
Doyers Street, a 200-foot-long curving street lined with shops and dim sum restaurants, has quickly become one of the best places to take pictures in Chinatown NYC.
Always a fascination for its small size and lack of traffic, artists have recently turned the street into a giant canvas for murals, bringing bright colors and shapes onto this unique block.
The murals may only be temporary, but the street captures the unique essence of Chinatown all year round, making it a great spot for photos.
15. Travel back in time to Old New York on Stone Street
Located in the Financial District just a few blocks from The Battery, Stone Street is a block with plenty of old New York charm.
Stone Street is one of the few cobblestone roads left in Manhattan and is lined with historic brick buildings housing restaurants and bars that spill into the street during the warmer months.
Head there in the evening to see the street lit up with string lights, a truly magical sight any time of year.
Want beautiful photos taken of you in scenic New York spots? Book one of our Private Photo Journeys, a walking tour that includes photos of your group to keep. Or get a styled, custom shoot that tells your unique story through an NYC Influencer Shoot or Professional New York City Shoot. Email [email protected] with inquiries.
Best Places To Take Pictures In Brooklyn
16. Enjoy the skyline views at Brooklyn Bridge Park
You’ll find some of the best views of the Manhattan skyline just across the East River at Brooklyn Bridge Park in Downtown Brooklyn. It’s also one of the best Brooklyn Bridge photography spots in New York City.
Featuring wide piers perfect for capturing classic NYC photos and intriguing public art throughout the grounds, there’s plenty to see and shoot at this popular Brooklyn park.
You can even relax on the sand at the Pier 5 beach or take in the views of the Manhattan Bridge Overpass from the John Street Lawn. The photo possibilities are endless!
17. Take a trek along the historic Brooklyn Bridge
You can’t visit New York City without taking a walk across the famous Brooklyn Bridge, the first bridge to connect Manhattan and Brooklyn.
The wide walking paths across the bridge make it easy to tackle on foot and a perfect spot for a photoshoot — especially as it offers one of the best views in NYC for free.
For the best photos, head to the bridge at sunrise when the light is perfect and the walkway isn’t as crowded.
18. Capture a classic sight on Washington Street in DUMBO
This two-block stretch of Washington Street in the DUMBO section of Brooklyn has become a favorite of New York City photographers over the last few years.
With its classic cobblestone streets, red brick warehouse buildings and impeccable views of the Manhattan Bridge, this little street epitomizes Brooklyn’s classic style.
Early mornings and weekdays are usually the best times to take photos here, as you won’t be fighting the crowds trying to capture this popular view.
And stay aware of your surroundings — the street is still open to traffic so you’ll want to avoid getting in the way of cars.
19. Marvel at the history of Grand Army Plaza
Manhattan may have the Washington Square Arch, but Brooklyn has Grand Army Plaza, an equally iconic triumphal arch that marks the entrance to Prospect Park.
The vast plaza surrounding the arch offers plenty of room to take pictures of the massive structure, as well as other historic sculptures nearby.
Grand Army Plaza really is the heart of Brooklyn and its the perfect spot for a New York photoshoot.
20. Enjoy the elegance of the Prospect Park Boathouse
The Boathouse in Prospect Park might be one of the most forgotten yet iconic NYC photo spots.
This postcard-perfect building dates back to 1905 and is nestled on the edge of Lullwater. It’s an ideal photo location for a romantic shoot any time of the year, centered around the beautiful Beaux-Arts architecture and the glassy lake.
For the best angle, stand on the Lullwater Bridge across from the Boathouse. Or stand near the water’s edge with the building in the background.
The Boathouse is also available for photo shoots. You can contact the Prospect Park Alliance at [email protected] for event dates if you’re interested in this.
21. Feel like a kid again at Coney Island
From the wild rides of the boardwalk to the iconic Nathan’s Hot Dog stand, there are tons of things to see and photograph at this famous seaside neighborhood.
Pose with the legendary Cyclone roller coaster or snap some shots on the golden sand beach.
There’s truly nowhere like Coney Island and you’ll definitely want to capture it on film (or just on your phone).
22. Discover the next big street artists at Bushwick Collective
Since its establishment in 2011, the Bushwick Collective has quickly become a major destination for street art fans from around the world.
Featuring rotating displays from both local and global street artists, this colorful stretch of buildings is definitely worth exploring with a camera in hand.
Whether you’re there to capture the unique murals or just looking for a colorful backdrop for an #OOTD post, this is the place to go.
Want beautiful photos taken of you in scenic New York spots? Book one of our Private Photo Journeys, a walking tour that includes photos of your group to keep. Or get a styled, custom shoot that tells your unique story through an NYC Influencer Shoot or Professional New York City Shoot. Email [email protected] with inquiries.
Best Places To Take Pictures In Queens
23. Capture one of the most iconic sights in Queens at the Unisphere at Corona Park
Built for the 1964 New York World’s Fair, the Unisphere has become an unofficial icon of Queens and a sight you won’t want to miss if you’re passing through Flushing.
This 140-foot-tall steel representation of Earth is a feat of both art and engineering, and its legacy goes far beyond the fair for which it was built.
On a sunny summer day when the fountains are up and running, it makes for the perfect Queens photo.
24. Take in the wonders of nature at the Queens Botanical Garden
Also located in Flushing is the Queens Botanical Garden, a 39-acre urban oasis that will transport you out of the city and into a serene natural wonderland.
Featuring an arboretum, herb garden, rose garden, and more, there is plenty of space to lose yourself to the beauty of nature here and capture it on camera.
There’s a reason this picture-perfect garden is a popular spot for weddings. It truly offers the perfect opportunity to explore romance in NYC!
25. Catch some incredible Midtown views at Gantry Plaza State Park
Gantry Plaza State Park, a 12-acre riverside park and former dockyard, has quickly become one of the hottest attractions in Long Island City for its unique structures and incredible views of the Manhattan skyline.
From the towering gantries that give the park its name to the famous Pepsi-Cola sign to the shimmering buildings across the East River, there are so many quintessential sights to capture here.
Pose on the park’s dock for some of the best Manhattan skyline views from Queens you can capture. Or come after dark for one of the best views in NYC at night!
26. Relax along the river at Astoria Park
Featuring nearly 60 acres of open space along the East River, Astoria Park is a favorite of both locals and visitors to the neighborhood.
The park features breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline and the Hell Gate Bridge connecting Queens and Randall’s Island, particularly at sunset.
It’s a great place to get a bit of fresh air in NYC’s largest borough.
Best Places To Take Pictures In The Bronx
27. Wander through fields of flowers at the New York Botanical Garden
From its stunning conservatory to its incredible collections of trees and local plants, the New York Botanical Garden is the destination for nature fans in New York City.
Located in the Fordham section of The Bronx, the New York Botanical Garden features rotating exhibits and blooms visitors can enjoy all year long.
You’ll definitely want to get a few shots of the famous lily pond right outside the conservatory, a favorite of many photographers.
28. Marvel at the majestic Hudson River at Wave Hill Public Garden & Cultural Center
Located in the Bronx’s Riverdale section, Wave Hill Public Garden & Cultural Center is an amazing riverside garden featuring gorgeous local flora and contemporary art from around the world.
The true star of Wave Hill is its amazing view of the Hudson River, and the garden features plenty of spots to simply sit and watch the boats on the river go by.
You can also explore Wave Hill’s lush conservatory all year long and snap some shots that will inspire your friends and followers to take up plant parenthood.
That being said, it’s particularly beautiful in spring and is one of the top spring date ideas in NYC, thanks to the photogenic cherry blossom trees.
29. Get a homerun of a photo at Yankee Stadium
Whether or not you’re a Yankees fan — or a baseball fan, for that matter — few baseball stadiums are more iconic than Yankee Stadium, a uniquely New York experience.
The stadium is full of great photo opportunities, both inside and outside the gates.
Pose in front of the famous facade, snap the field itself or get a shot of some of the wild dishes on offer inside, like cupcake-topped milkshakes or bacon cheeseburger dumplings.
Want beautiful photos taken of you in scenic New York spots? Book one of our Private Photo Journeys, a walking tour that includes photos of your group to keep. Or get a styled, custom shoot that tells your unique story through an NYC Influencer Shoot or Professional New York City Shoot. Email [email protected] with inquiries.
Best Places To Take Pictures In Staten Island
30. See some of New York’s top sights for free on the Staten Island Ferry
It’s no secret that the Staten Island Ferry is one of the best things to do for free in NYC. If you’re exploring New York City on a budget, you can’t miss it.
The ferry sails between New York Harbor in Lower Manhattan and St. George Ferry Terminal in Staten Island 24/7, cruising past the Statue of Liberty and offering impeccable views of Downtown Manhattan.
Bring your camera along for the ride and snap some photos from the water. It’s one of the best ways to see the city in our opinion.
31. Get transported to historic China at the Snug Harbor Cultural Center
An authentic Chinese garden in the heart of Staten Island?
You’d better believe it!
Located in Randall Manor, Snug Harbor Cultural Center is home to the New York Chinese Scholar’s Garden, a replica of a Ming Dynasty-era garden complete with authentic Chinese bridges, buildings, and Koi ponds that will make you feel like you’re a world away from Staten Island.
Beyond the Chinese Scholar’s Garden, Snug Harbor has several other gorgeous botanical gardens and farms perfect for photoshoots, making the center a local hotspot for weddings.
32. Learn the colonial way of life at Historic Richmond Town
Travel back in time to learn about America’s colonial beginnings at Historic Richmond Town, a living history museum with buildings dating back to the 1700s and 1800s.
Among the historic buildings, you’ll find historic tradespeople practicing crafts like blacksmithing and carpentry and interpreters telling the stories of the town’s history.
It’s a favorite spot for photographers looking to capture photos in a historic setting or those looking for something a little different to add to their Instagram grids.
33. View the Verrazano Bridge in all her glory at Fort Wadsworth
Located just off the Verrazano Bridge, you’ll find breathtaking views of New York Harbor at Fort Wadsworth, part of Gateway National Recreation Area.
As one of the oldest military installations in the United States, the park is rich in history and resources, with plenty of room to bike or hike around the harbor.
The fort and its backdrop make for incredible photos and this is definitely the best place to get a picture of the majestic Verrazano Bridge!
34. Appreciate nature at the Staten Island Greenbelt Conservancy
For a nature shoot, one of New York’s best photo spots is the Greenbelt Nature Center in the heart of Staten Island.
This 2800-acre forest preserve has miles of hiking trails along lakes and through dense forests, ferns, and meadows. It’s a fantastic spot to capture the wild beauty of nature without leaving the five boroughs.
The opportunities are endless here, but a point of interest is Ohrbach Lake. Circle the lake to find clusters of lily pads on the quiet water surrounded by lush trees.
Or head to the supposedly haunted Heyerdahl Ruins and capture the crumbling front steps.
Where To Take Photos In NYC [Map]
Now that we’ve gone over some of the best photo ops in NYC, here is a map of the above-mentioned locations to help you easily find them:
Click here for an interactive version of the map.
Photogenic NYC Tours
The following tours offer the opportunity to discover some of the best places in NYC to take pictures or have your photo taken:
- 📸 Private NYC Photo Journey. Part private tour, part photo shoot, you’ll leave the tour with professional photos of your group to keep!
- 🚁 New York Helicopter Tour: Manhattan Highlights
- 🌸 Secrets of Central Park Walking Tour
- 🌇 Skip the Line: NYC One World Observatory Ticket
- 🤩 Top of the Rock Observation Deck New York Ticket
- 🥟 SoHo, Little Italy and Chinatown Walking Tour
- 🎨 Artistic, Alternative Greenwich Village Walking Tour
- 📍 High Line and Chelsea Small Group Tour
➡️ Click here for a full list of New York City tours.
Instagrammable NYC Hotels
There are many local hotels that also make for nice places to take pictures in NYC, like:
The High Line Hotel. This stylish landmark hotel resides on the very grounds where Clement Clark Moore wrote “Twas the Night Before Christmas.” The vibe is 19th century with numerous original touches, including stunning stained-glass windows. Opt for in-room views of either the High Line or the hotel garden.
The William Vale. This hip Williamsburg property features onsite Italian eatery, stunning gym, and seasonal pool. It’s also home to one of our favorite New York City rooftops, Westlight, which offers a true 360-degree view and delicious craft cocktails.
Crosby Street Hotel. This boutique SoHo hotel blends luxury with creativity. You’ll find endless opportunities to take photos in the rooms and common spaces thanks to the carefully curated art and design pieces — not to mention a sculpture garden. Plus, their onsite restaurant and bar serves beautifully-plated food and expertly crafted drinks.
Click here for a full list of NYC hotels. There are many options that also double as locations for photo shoots in New York!
NYC Travel Insurance
When visiting New York City – or anywhere else in the world – it’s wise to get travel insurance.
One of the best travel medical insurance for travelers is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).
Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.
Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks.
Where To Take Pictures In NYC: FAQ
Now that we’ve given you some inspiration for choosing the best place to take pictures in NYC, let’s answer some frequently asked questions:
Q) What are the best places to take photos in New York City?
Some of the best places to take pictures in NYC are Central Park, Times Square, Brooklyn Bridge and Grand Central Station.
Q) What are unique photo spots in NYC?
Doyers Street in Chinatown, Bushwick Collective and Gantry Plaza State Park.
Q) Where is the best place to take a picture in Times Square?
The Red Stairs is the best place to take a picture in Times Square.
What would you add to this list of best places to take pictures in NYC?
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