The Most Popular Tourist Attractions In New York City

New York City is known for its hustle and bustle, iconic landmarks, and spectacular attractions. Tourists flock to the city every year to experience the culture, scenery, and special events.

*Related: Tourist Traps That Are Actually Worth Visiting

It's the city that never sleeps; there is always something to do and a new destination to explore. Visit famous locations from your favorite TV shows, watch a Broadway play, go shopping on Fifth Avenue, watch a sports game at Madison Square Garden, or head to the top of the Empire State Building for incredible views.

And don't forget to take tons of photos! Here are the 12 most popular tourist attractions in NYC.

The 9/11 Memorial is a tribute of honor and remembrance to the nearly 3,000 people who were killed in the terror attacks on Sept. 11, 2001. The memorial contains twin reflecting pools, each of which are about an acre in size and feature the largest manmade waterfalls in North America.

The Brooklyn Bridge is approximately 5,989 feet long. It was built from 1869 to 1883, and walking along this bridge is a favorite tourist activity. It offers spectacular skyline views, especially during sunset. Biking and walking tours are also available.

Tourists love Central Park for its year-round beauty. Regardless of the season, there is always something spectacular to photograph. Enjoy ice skating in the winter, boating in the summer, and watching the leaves change in the fall. Also, make sure to visit the beautiful Conservatory Garden.

The Chrysler Building is one of the city's most famous skyscrapers. Located on the East Side of Midtown Manhattan, it's the tallest brick building in the world, albeit with a steel frame. People love to view its Art Deco architecture.

The Empire State building is home to one of the world's most incredible observation points. Ride the elevator up to the main deck on the 86th floor for spectacular views, or if you're up for it, keep going to the 102nd floor and view the city from one of its highest points.

Also known as Grand Central Station, this is one of the most famous landmarks in Midtown Manhattan. It is one of the busiest train stations in the world, with nearly 200,000 commuters traveling through it every day. Tourists love it for its delicious restaurants and gorgeous Beaux-Arts architecture.

The High Line is one of the most unique parks in New York City, and it offers stunning views of Manhattan. Tourists enjoy food walking tours, lounging outdoors, and sightseeing around the park. There are also tons of restaurants, bars, and shopping opportunities close by.

This museum encompasses one of the largest collections of art in the world. Take a guided tour, attend museum events, and visit its various libraries. View iconic pieces and famous paintings, but don't forget to explore the Temple of Dendur in the Egyptian Galleries, the Medieval Sculpture Hall, and the Chinese Buddhist Sculpture in the Asian Art galleries.

This spectacular 250-acre garden is one of the top attractions in the Bronx. It contains 50 themed gardens, indoor rainforests, and popular year-round events. Attend the Holiday Train Show from Nov. 19, 2016 through Jan. 16, 2017, and the Orchid Show from Feb. 18 through April 9, 2017.

Here you can ice skate in the city's most famous ice rink, view the giant Swarovski crystal star at the top of the Christmas tree, go shopping, and visit The LEGO Store. But for some of the most spectacular views of the city, enter Rockefeller Center. Step into a glass ceiling sky shuttle and ride up to the 70th floor. Enjoy a 360-degree view of the city on the outdoor deck.

The Statue of Liberty is a universal symbol of freedom and democracy. It arrived in the New York Harbor in 1886, and soon became one of the most well-known sites, as it was the first thing millions of immigrants saw upon arriving in America. In 2015, there were approximately 4.2 million visitors, according to statistics.

Times Square is by far one of the most visited attractions in New York City. Tourists enjoy delicious food from famous restaurants, watch award-winning plays and musicals, and shop in countless stores. But nighttime is when the real magic happens — simply look up and around you to admire the city's incredible lights.