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The 40 Most Instagrammable Places in NYC

most instagrammable spots nyc

No one knows about New York City’s most Instagrammable spots better than a professional Instagrammer… who also happens to live here (me!)

Below, you’ll find a list of the best places for street photography in NYC, the best places for outdoor photos in NYC, a handful of hidden gems, and NYC Instagram spots that’ll make you the envy of all your followers.

Whether you’re using a camera with a wide angle lens or you’re snapping pics with your trusted iPhone, there’s a photo-worthy opportunity just about everywhere you go in this city.

Also, for what it’s worth: NYC is one of my favorite places to recommend for a girls trip—and this is the exact list that I tell everyone to use as a guide.

This is by no means a comprehensive list, but it’s a few “must-visit” locations for a first timer.

p.s. I also have a guide to the most Instagrammable spots in LA, in case you’re planning a trip there.

The Most Instagrammable Places in NYC

1. Chacha Matcha

Even if you’re not a fan of matcha, you’re going to want to check this place out immediately—but prepare to wait (there’s almost always a line.)

Beyond matcha lattes, they also have fab matcha ice cream.

coffee shop nyc
Photo: @chachamatcha

Two locations:
Nolita – 373 Broome
Nomad – 1158 Broadway

Stalk it on Instagram: 
@chachamatcha


2. Pietro Nolita

The healthy Italian restaurant describes itself as a “unique pink jewel box in the heart of Nolita,” which it definitely is.

They don’t take reservations, unfortunately, and there’s always a wait…but I’d recommend taking a photo on the super cute pink bench outside of the restaurant. If you’re in NYC for a girls getaway, Pietro Nolita is a must.

Need a little assistance editing your pics after you take them here? Here’s exactly how I edit my photos for Instagram.

instagrammable places nyc

Location:
174 Elizabeth Street

Stalk it on Instagram:
@PietroNolita


3. Flatiron Building

A New York City institution. You can’t be in the city without getting a shot of the triangular 22-story, 285-foot building. To get the best angle, go closer to 23rd street on the sliver of sidewalk area.

flatiron building nyc
Photo: @flatironny

Location:
175 5th Ave

Stalk it on Instagram:
@Flatironny


4. Washington Street in Dumbo

Dumbo is quickly becoming one of Brooklyn’s hottest neighborhoods. To get the perfect shot, stand at the intersection of Water Street and Washington Street in Dumbo—you’ll notice the two buildings perfectly frame the Manhattan Bridge overpass.

Then, head to Cecconi’s for dinner and drinks right under the bridge. Such a chic spot. Also not far: 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge. They have a great rooftop bar for drinks and one of my favorite lobbies of all time.

washington street dumbo
Photo: @goodgolliemsmollie (one of my besties!)

Location:
Washington Street and Water Street, Brooklyn

Stalk it on Instagram:
DUMBO, Brooklyn


5. Top of the Rock

Visiting the “top of the rock” (aka the top of Rockefeller Center) requires tickets, but for a photo like this, it’s worth it.

You’ll get the best light early in the morning or just before sunset.

most instagrammable spots in nyc
Photo: @SivanAyla

Location:
Enter at 30 Rockefeller Plaza

Stalk it on Instagram:
@rockcenternyc


6. One World Trade Center Observatory

If you’ve never been to New York, I can’t recommend the 1WTC Observatory enough. I live here, and I was still blown away by the views and the experience.

The building has a three-story “observation deck” that’s located on floors 100–102—so, if you have a fear of heights…you might want to think twice.

1WTC observatory view

Location:
285 Fulton Street

Stalk it on Instagram:
@oneworldnyc


7. The St Regis Hotel

The hotel is a true New York icon—and so is its awning. Pop in to the King Cole Bar for a Bloody Mary, which is where the cocktail was first invented.

St Regis Hotel NYC

Location:
2 East 55th St.

Stalk it on Instagram:
@stregisnewyork


8. Grand Central Station

Unlike other mass transportation areas of the city (namely Penn Station and Port Authority) Grand Central terminal isn’t a cess pool of filth.

In fact, it’s one of the most beautiful structures in all of Manhattan. (Pro Tip: if you need an emergency Apple repair, the Apple store within Grand Central is a dream.)

grand central nyc

Location:
89 E 42nd St

Stalk it on Instagram:
@grandcentralnyc


9. Ralph’s Coffee Shop

If you’re looking for a charming coffee shop to stop by during your visit, don’t miss out on Ralph’s! It’s part of the Ralph Lauren store but has a separate entrance and both the inside and outside make for an Insta-worthy backdrop.

Location:
888 Madison Ave

Stalk it on Instagram:
@ralphscoffee


10. The Brooklyn Bridge

There is arguably nothing better than walking along the Brooklyn Bridge on a gorgeous sunny day. I mean, I’ll be honest—I haven’t done it in years—but I remember it being really lovely.

Have you seen how beautiful these photos are? Just a warning…the bridge gets insanely busy during the summer (and I mean bumper-to-bumper foot traffic) so if you want a shot like this, you probably won’t get it midday.

brooklyn bridge instagram
Photo: @khemric

Location:
The Brooklyn Bridge Pedestrian Walkway begins at the intersection of Tillary Street & Boerum Place.

Stalk it on Instagram:
@brooklynbridgeig


11. The Oculus at the World Trade Center

Would you believe me if I told you this was a subway station? It’s also flanked by some pretty amazing stores on either side (check out Sugarfina for more Instagram candy.)

Now a highly recognized building in New York City, this place is so symmetrically stunning, it’s nearly impossible not to take a great photo.

Hyperlapse or fast-motion videos also work really well here, particularly on the second level overlooking the chaos below.

most instagrammable places in nyc

Location:
185 Greenwich St (if you’re from out of town and take a taxi, make sure you specifically say Greenwich STREET and not AVENUE—those are two completely different places.)

Stalk it on Instagram:
The Oculus


12. The Upper East Side

If you stroll around the Upper East Side, I can practically guarantee that you’ll find several dreamy stoops and apartment buildings to pose in front of.

Location:
There are lots of cute spots between Second Ave and Madison Ave.


13. The Vessel at Hudson Yards

The newly-opened structure—inside of Hudson Yards, a fancy development on the West side of Manhattan—has become one of the most instagrammable places in NYC in recent years.

So what is it, exactly? The Vessel is a public art installation that soars 15-stories high, consisting of stairwells and 80 viewing platforms.

If you’re ambitious, climb to the top for an out-of-this-world vantage point of the city.

most instagrammable spots in nyc hudson yards the vessel
Photo: @lais.rodrigues

Location: 
20 Hudson Yards

Stalk it on Instagram:
@thevesselnyc


14. Roman and Williams Guild

When the New York City-based interior design firm Roman and Williams decided to open a restaurant-slash-home goods store in Soho last year, the design world lost their minds.

Inside, you can indulge in a quintessential French meal at Le Mercerie (the café) or peruse fancy home decor at the Guild.

Needless to say, the photo opps are endless. Need a little inspo? Check out this stunning shot by my friend @AGuyNamedPatrick.

Roman & Williams Guild NYC
Photo: @AGuyNamedPatrick

Location:
53 Howard St

Stalk it on Instagram:
@rwguild


15. NOMO Soho

I used to say that if I hadn’t done a destination wedding in Mexico (after getting legally hitched at City Hall first) I would have wanted to get married at NOMO Soho.

This uber-chic hotel, and its equally chic outdoor restaurant, is what Instagram dreams are made of, particularly on sunny days.

Nomo Soho Instagrammable spots nyc
Photo: @thenomosoho

Location:
9 Crosby Street

Stalk it on Instagram:
@thenomosoho


16. 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge Lobby

Here’s a little insider secret: you don’t have to actually be staying at the 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge to hang out in its picturesque lobby. With lush greenery, cozy couches, and rustic wooden furniture, it’s truly one of my favorite places to spend an afternoon in Brooklyn. (If you go and enjoy the scent—it’s intoxicating—we’d recommend checking out Hotel Lobby Candle, which sells similar fragrances!)

There’s also a fab rooftop bar, chic cafe on the ground floor, plus a rooftop pool and restaurant. It’s also walking distance from the Washington Street photo op in DUMBO I mentioned above, so I recommend making an afternoon of it—and then heading to Shake Shack around the corner.

one hotel brooklyn bridge
Photo: @1Hotels

 Location:
60 Furman Street, Brooklyn

Stalk it on Instagram:
@1Hotels


17. The Edge

Giving you a 360 degree view of NYC, the Edge is the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere.

While you’re 100 stories above ground level, you can snap some dreamy Instagram pictures that will arguably show off the best views of Manhattan.

Best nyc Instagram spots

Location:
30 Hudson Yards

Stalk it on Instagram:
@Edgenyc


18. Guggenheim Museum

You won’t want to miss stopping by this art museum, which is located on the dreamy Upper East Side. The unique, modern architecture looks equally as stunning inside as it does from the street.

guggenheim museum nyc
Photo: @Guggenheim

Location:
1071 5th Ave

Stalk it on Instagram:
@Guggenheim


19. Sézane

This French-inspired women’s boutique is packed full of dresses, handbags, and heels that you’ll certainly want to splurge on, but it also has a very Instagram-worthy storefront.

Decorated with a variety of colorful flowers, classic white and black awnings, and an adorable little bench, there are plenty of opportunities for cute Instagram shots.

Sezane NYC
Photo: @graceinnyork

Location:
254 Elizabeth St

Stalk it on Instagram:
@Sezane


20. Washington Square Park

A lot of magic happens in this iconic NYC park—cotton candy sunsets, thrilling street performances, and unlimited sightings of French Bulldogs.

Plus, you can pose for a pic in front of the Washington Square Arch, a common yet underrated tourist spot.

Washington square park nyc
Photo: @michellecascais

Location:
Greenwich Village Neighborhood


21. The High Line

The high line is a nearly 1.5-mile elevated walkway in the trendy New York neighborhood Chelsea. It offers up the city views you likely came to Manhattan for in the first place.

Grab a coffee at Blue Bottle Coffee (located at 450 W 15th Street!) before you venture off on your walk. (Pro Tip: Having something to hold in your hands for photos makes them feel less awkward.)

The Highline nyc

Location:
Enter on Gansevoort Street and Washington Street

Stalk it on Instagram:
@highlinenyc


22. Sheep Meadow

Just about every inch of Central Park is worthy of a photo op, but Sheep Meadow in particular is a good spot to get a solo or group shot.

Bring a blanket and a bottle of wine for some props.

Sheep's Meadow NYC

Location:
Lower section of Central Park


23. Bow Bridge

Another good place to get a picture in Central Park is Bow Bridge. It’s usually pretty crowded but just be patient and you’ll get a good pic!

(Pro Tip: If you’re visiting in the fall, this photo op is a must. The fall foliage is stunning in Central Park.)

Bow Bridge new york
Photo: @karenco23

Location:
Central Park


24. The Met Steps

Calling all Gossip Girl fans! You can finally feel like Blair Waldorf for the day by stopping by the Metropolitan Museum of Art and snapping a picture on the famous steps.

Try to get there earlier in the morning to avoid having tons of people in the background of your photo.

the met steps nyc
Photo: @blissfully.brunette

Location:
1000 5th Ave

Stalk it on Instagram:
@metmuseum


25. Times Square

Times Square isn’t really a place where you’ll want to hang out, but if you’re in the area, it’s worth seeing.

The complete chaos of this section of Manhattan can make for a vibrant and very NYC Instagram post.

most instagrammable places in nyc times square
Photo: @timessquarenyc

Location:
Midtown Manhattan (Seventh Avenue and 42nd Street)

Stalk it on Instagram:
@timessquarenyc


26. The Plaza Hotel

Who remembers Eloise? The picture-perfect hotel she grew up in is a must-see in New York.

You can get a stunning picture of the iconic building from across the street or from Central Park—which is just steps away.

nyc instagram spot the plaza hotel
Photo: @theplazahotel

Location:
5th Avenue at Central Park S

Stalk it on Instagram:
@theplazahotel


27. Mr. Purple

During the warmer months, the rooftop bar at Hotel Indigo, Mr. Purple is the perfect place to scope out the Manhattan skyline. Order a drink and pose for a photo by the pool.

mr. purple rooftop nyc instagram spot
Photo: @mrpurplenyc

Location:
180 Orchard St

Stalk it on Instagram:
@mrpurplenyc


28. RH Rooftop Restaurant

Somewhat new to the city is the Restoration Hardware rooftop restaurant and bar.

As one would expect, the space looks like it was torn out from a magazine spread, and any interior design lover should certainly dine here and get some pics.

restoration hardware restaurant nyc
Photo: @corineduv

Location:
9 9th Ave


29. Lotte New York Palace

The much-loved New York Palace is located in a dreamy area on Madison Avenue.

Stop by at sunset or sundown to get a pretty picture in front of the hotel’s entrance, then have a drink at Trouble’s Trust, which is located just inside.

instagrammable spots lotte new york palace
Photo: @newyorkpalace

Location:
455 Madison Ave

Stalk it on Instagram:
@newyorkpalace


30. Tiny’s and the Bar Upstairs

Pictures of Tiny’s speak for themselves. This adorable little restaurant and bar has so much character. Pose outside before going in for a bite to eat.

Photo: @tinysnyc

Location:
135 W Broadway

Stalk it on Instagram:
@tinysnyc


31. Pebble Beach

Located in DUMBO, Pebble Beach is the ideal place to go for a sunset picnic or walk.

You’ll get gorgeous views of Manhattan without too much of a crowd.

Pebble Beach Brooklyn
Photo: @theblessingbucket

Location:
65 Plymouth St, Brooklyn

32. Empire State Building

I know that most people who are visiting Manhattan already have the Empire State Building on their bucket list but I couldn’t publish this post without including it.

The key to getting a good photo in front of the skyscraper is to stand near Madison Square Park — this way you can get a full view of the building.

Location:
20 W 34th St., New York, NY

33. Radio City Music Hall

A photo opp in front of Radio City Music Hall is a classic NYC tourist move, for good reason. The building has rich history and looks so pretty when it’s lit at night.

This area also looks particularly festive and celebratory during Christmastime, so if you happen to be visiting during the holidays, you’re in for a treat!

Photo: @tiffanie.quast

Location:
1260 6th Ave, New York, NY


The Most Instagrammable Places to Eat in NYC

Here’s a quick hit-list of some Instagram-worthy restaurants!

34. Grand Banks

Grand Banks is an oyster bar on the water in Tribeca. Climb aboard the historic boat and enjoy nautically-inspired cocktails and eats while scoping out amazing views.

Location:
Hudson River Park’s Pier 25

Stalk it on Instagram:
@Grandbanksnyc


35. Sweet Moment

This delicious dessert spot is known for their cute latte art that’s made with La Colombe coffee and Korean Bingsoos (shaved ice).

Sweet moments nyc
Photo: @sweetmomentnyc

Location:
106 Mott Street, Chinatown

Stalk it on Instagram:
@Sweetmomentnyc


36. Black Tap

I wouldn’t be surprised if you’ve already seen these over-the-top milkshakes on your Instagram feed.

Black Tap is known for their giant and uniquely flavored milkshakes, as well as their burgers and beer.

Black Tap NYC
Photo: @Blacktapnyc

Location:
Multiple Locations

Stalk it on Instagram:
@Blacktapnyc


37. Drunken Dumpling

Located in the East Village, the food mecca of NYC, Drunken Dumpling is the place to go for quirky and colorful soup dumplings.

Photo: @realsummerpriester

Location:
137 First Avenue

Stalk it on Instagram:
@Drunkendumpling


38. Serra by Birreria

With a rooftop spot at Eataly, this festive restaurant features an ever-changing theme based on the seasons—and it doesn’t hurt that the food is great!

Serra by birreria nyc
Photo: @serrabybirreria

Location:
200 Fifth Avenue

Stalk it on Instagram:
@Serrabybirreria


39. LRoom Cafe

Step inside LRoom Cafe and you’ll be in Instagram heaven as you find yourself surrounded by uber-feminine pink decor. This restaurant is also known for their penchant for food and pretty flowers.

instagrammable food spots LRoom cafe
Photo: @LindsiLaneStyle

Location:
41 West 14th St

Stalk it on Instagram:
@Lroomcafe

40. Maman

Not only is the ambience inviting, but the food is to die for. The entrance is beautiful and the inside of each location is cozy and feminine.

Location:
Several throughout the city

Stalk it on Instagram:
@_mamannyc_


What are your favorite places to take Instagram photos in NYC?

Since the city is always changing and new places continuously pop up, it’s easy to miss out on some snap-worthy spots. While I’ve done my best to put together this lengthy list, I’d love to hear what your favorite Instagram spots in NYC are. I love finding new places to shoot content so any tips are appreciated. Let me know in the comment section below!

3 Comments

  • Rita Talia
    June 14, 2019 at 6:39 pm

    Hi, I am so jelouse! you took some amazing photos! I wanted to ask if you knew of a non-touristy rooftop place I can take photos at? thanks XO

    Reply
    • Lindsay Silberman
      June 17, 2019 at 10:04 pm

      depending on when you’re here, you should check out the rooftop of Eataly – it’s a restaurant called Bireria

      Reply
  • Ariel
    October 3, 2021 at 9:31 am

    There’s a new place in NYC called Savanna Rooftop which is a restaurant you can see the Manhattan skyline and the famous bridge.

    Reply

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