Eight of the best photo locations in New York City

New York, New York – what a wonderful place! A juxtaposition of a concrete jungle with the green space of Central Park in its midst, New York City is easily one of the most popular places to visit on the East Coast of the USA. There is always something new to see around every corner so don’t miss any of these hot spots with eight of the best photo locations in New York City. 

1. The High Line 

We love how historic rail lines have been upcycled and transformed into the High Line, a phenomenal urban green space that stretches through the Chelsea and Meatpacking neighbourhoods. First opened in 2009, the High Line is elevated above street level and offers several vantage points as a photo location – like the everchanging art displays to areas featuring the retired rail tracks.  

2. Flatiron Building 

The great thing about photographing the Flatiron Building is that it’s near impossible to muck it up! From whatever angle you choose, the triangular-shaped Flatiron Building has become one of New York City’s most iconic buildings. To get the full scope, you’re best to line your shot up at 23^rd Street and Fifth Avenue.  

3. Times Square 

Abuzz with neon lights, rotating billboards and yellow taxis, you can’t help but get swept up in Times Square’s energy. The red stairs are a key photo location: you can either get a sweeping photo heading downtown or place your subject on the stairs for a great angle encompassing the bright lights. A 360-degree photo is also a neat way to capture the atmosphere.  

4. Greenwich Village 

Greenwich Village holds so much of New York City’s history. Formerly built up as a neighbourhood that housed the wealthy, avid photographers will love the area for its distinctive buildings. We would recommend spending a few hours here to make sure that you’ve explored all its nooks and crannies! From the crisp white homes of Washington Mews, covered in climbing vines during the warmer months, to the Jefferson Market Library with its quirky architecture, Greenwich Village offers so many unique photo locations! 

5. Williamsburg 

One of the trendiest neighbourhoods to explore, Williamsburg is full of fun photo locations. From the hip Brooklyn Brewery to Williamsburg Bridge (Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridge’s often-forgotten sister bridge!) to quirky street murals, there’s something to suit every photographer’s tastes. 

6. Pebble Beach 

To get that winning snap of New York City in all its glory, head to the Pebble Beach area. A popular photo location is at Washington Street in DUMBO where your view will encompass landmarks like Manhattan Bridge and the Empire State Building. Nearby you will also find Brooklyn Bridge Park, another popular place to wander through with its piers, green spaces and views of Brooklyn Bridge. 

7. The Oculus 

Also known as the World Trade Centre Station, the Oculus is hard to miss with its spectacular ‘spine’. Located next door to the 9/11 memorial site, the Oculus also operates as a shopping, dining and entertainment space so the people-watching is top notch. The stairway platforms offer the best views along its length meaning you can capture the crisp white interior to perfection. 

8. Empire State Building 

From the ground floor with its art deco lobby to its two observatories high above the street, you certainly won’t fall short of photo locations at the Empire State Building! Time your visit with sunset to watch the sky change colour across the famous skyline. On the clearest of days, you can see six states from the observation decks – New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania and Delaware! 

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Is New York City on your travel bucket list? Visit the Big Apple and the East Coast of the USA on a Globus or Cosmos tour.