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Best Places To Visit In Manhattan

When people think about Manhattan, images of a lit up Times Square, crowded city streets, towering skyscrapers, and vibrant neighborhoods immediately come to mind. But there's so much around every corner of the borough. From stunning structures to lush parks, here are some of Manhattan's best landmarks.

Related: Exploring Hell's Kitchen | Exploring NoMad | Exploring Little Italy 

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Statue of Liberty

Where: Liberty Island, New York, NY 10004

Situated atop Liberty Island since 1886, Lady Liberty has continued to captivate the attention of tourists who are eager to explore Manhattan's rich history. To this day, this symbolic statue continues to represent our nation's most sacred ideals; liberty, freedom, and democracy. Interested in catching a glimpse of this prized monument? Simply hop on a ferry from Battery Park or Liberty State Park to Liberty Island.

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Alexander Hamilton U.S. Custom House

Where: 1 Bowling Green, New York, NY 10004

More: NYC's Native American Sites, Memorials

If you're struggling to snag a pair of tickets to the hit Broadway musical, enjoy Hamilton with a visit the U.S. Custom House instead. Completed in 1907, the landmark currently houses the National Museum of the American Indian. Best of all, anyone can admire the museums exhibits and its breathtaking Beau-Arts architecture for free.

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The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Where: 1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028
This famous Manhattan museum is home to one of the largest galleries in the world. From modern art to ancient Egyptian sculptures, and every historical artifact in between, the Met, as it's referred to, never fails to provide its visitors with a unique glimpse into the past.

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The American Museum of Natural History

Where: Central Park West & 79th St, New York, NY 10024

Although the exhibits aren't guaranteed to awake at night, the many exhibits housed here are visually striking, educational and diverse. Take a trip to the Upper West Side and immerse yourself in the exciting scientific and historical halls that the museum has offered to the public since 1869.

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Federal Hall Memorial

Where: 26 Wall St, New York, NY 10005

Toss away your boring, old history books and venture back to 18th century America with a visit to the Federal Hall Memorial. Constructed in what is now the Financial District, this celebrated historical site serves as a museum and memorial that celebrates the inauguration of President George Washington and the beginnings of our nation's history.

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Chrysler Building

Where: 405 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10174

While the Chrysler may not be the tallest skyscraper to grace the city, New Yorkers continue to acknowledge the structure's unwavering beauty and art-deco style.

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Hamilton Grange National Memorial

Where: 414 W 141st St, New York, NY 10031

Not one, but two landmarks to recognize the country's favorite treasury secretary. You can visit the home, now a celebrated landmark, for free. Made available to the public since 2011, this site offers visitors an opportunity to take a tour of the late Alexander Hamilton's home. In just one trip you'll learn about the home's history, its restoration and move.

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9/11 Memorial

Where: 180 Greenwich St, New York, NY 10007

Guide: 9/11 Memorial Museum

Open to the public since 2011, the 9/11 memorial serves as a space for Americans to celebrate and honor the lives of innocent and brave individuals who passed away in the 1993 World Trade Center bombing and the September 11th attacks.

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City Hall Subway

Where: City Hall Park, New York, NY 10007

More: Activities For Subway Buffs In NYC

When thinking of a New York City subway station, words like beautiful and elegant don't usually come to mind. All it takes is just one glimpse of City Hall Subway, an abandoned Manhattan station laden with Gustavino tile, to change your opinion of the subway for good. Unfortunately, full access to this site is only available to members of the Transportation Museum. But, for $2.75, curious tourists can catch a quick view of the secret subway by taking the 6 train downtown to the Brooklyn Bridge/City Hall stop and staying on the train as it turns around to head uptown.

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Empire State Building

Where: 350 5th Ave, New York, NY

Since 1931, millions of New Yorkers and tourists from across the world continue to flock to the legendary building's observation decks. With views of the Big Apple so good, there's no surprise why the Empire State is a tourist magnet.

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New York Historical Society

Where: 170 Central Park West, New York, NY 10024

Founded in 1804, the oldest museum in New York City continues to educate its visitors about the city and the nation's rich and complex history. From Tuesday through Sunday, visitors have the opportunity to explore a range of unique and educational exhibits that showcase some of the city's most prized photographs and artifacts.

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Grand Central Terminal

Where: 89 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017

Also known as Grand Central Station, this iconic Manhattan attraction opened its doors to commuters across the city in 1913. Known for its stunning interior, this spacious station continues to attract millions of tourists each year. Whether you plan on catching a train or want to people watch, Grand Central is a must stop.

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St. Patrick's Cathedral

Where: 5th Ave (between 50th and 51st Street)

A gothic church located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, St. Patrick's Cathedral continues to captivate the attention of curious onlookers mesmerized by the church's stunning exterior. Tourists can take a peek at the restored interior of this famed 19th century house of worship with a free, walk-in tour.

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Washington Square Park

Where: West 4th St, Greenwich Village, New York City, NY 10001

Need an escape from the hectic New York City streets? Take a stroll through Washington Square Park, an open space filled with creative entertainers, endless chatter and laughter. Grab a few friends, explore the park, and remember to snap a few pictures of the park's famed fountain and historical arch.

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