New York City [1] is hands down one of the most iconic cities in the world [2]. It's home to stunning architecture, hip and unique restaurants, endless alleyways and hidden corners, and neighbourhoods that are so different and self-contained, they could be their own small towns. In the five boroughs, there's no shortage of things to do — and more importantly, places to see. All of the things that make New York so iconic also make it an Instagrammer's dream come true [3], with infinite possibilities for backdrops and focal points for your next post or story. So whether you're just visiting or you call the Big Apple home, these destinations are a foolproof way to get a perfect snap for your feed.
The Met Cloisters
Snap a photo at the Met Cloisters for a beautiful backdrop that looks straight out of medieval Europe. The museum building itself is made up of the parts of several French abbeys, with stunning gardens throughout the grounds.
Dumbo, Brooklyn
Dumbo stands for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass, and is one of the most iconic locations for Instagram photos in New York City. Just make sure you watch out for cars to get that perfect backdrop of the Manhattan Bridge.
Brooklyn Bridge
On a nice day, the Brooklyn Bridge can be packed to the gills with tourists, and for good reason: the iconic stone bridge is the perfect backdrop for your Instagram. Beyond that, it's a perfect spot to get sweeping views of Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island.
Soho, Manhattan
Head down almost any side street in Soho and you'll find an old cobblestone road with gorgeous historic buildings to take a top-notch Instagram photo. It doesn't get more iconic New York than that.
The Whitney Museum of American Art
With one of the best collections of American art in the country, the Whitney is full of Instagrammable backdrops that are sure to make you look cultured and artsy. On a nice day, head outside to one of their terraces for incredible views of Chelsea.
The High Line
The High Line is one of the most unique parks in the city. The elevated park used to be a train track, and is now home to a range of native plants, wildflowers, and art installations that are ideal for the perfect photo.
Bethesda Terrace and Fountain
Central Park is a spectacular backdrop for photos on its own, but the Bethesda Terrace and Fountain is one of the best places in the park to snap a picture or two. The lower passage is beautifully decorated with gorgeous yellow stone, while the upper terrace gives you great views of the park.
Times Square
If you can brave the huge crowds, Times Square is worth a visit for its photo-worthy lights and hustle and bustle. Head there at night, when it's dark, to really capture the bright lights.
Cobble Hill, Brooklyn
If you're looking for quintessential Brooklyn brownstones, look no further than Cobble Hill. This quaint neighbourhood feels like a small town with plenty of restaurants, shops, and tree-lined streets for you to capture.
Grand Central Terminal
The iconic ceiling in Grand Central Terminal is decorated with a mural of constellations, offering you the chance to both cultivate FOMO in your Instagram followers and get in touch with your astrological side. Pause for a moment among the rush of commuters to take in the stunning architecture.
Joe Strummer Mural
Though The Clash is best known as a British punk band, the group spent some of their most productive years in New York City and remain an iconic part of the city's musical history. Cosy up with revolutionary heart throb Joe Strummer in front of this mural on the side of Niagara Bar in Alphabet City.
Gramercy Terrace
Brunch has never looked so dreamy. Escape to this urban jungle in the Gramercy Terrace at the Gramercy Park Hotel while visiting the chic neighbourhood it's located in.
Coney Island
With dazzling colours and an iconic amusement park, Coney Island will bring a pop of candy-coated charm to your Instagram feed. Hop on the Wonder Wheel to get some bird's eye shots of the beach and boardwalk.
Pietro Nolita
Pietro Nolita is proof that the millennial pink trend is very much alive. The trendy restaurant's exterior is just as Instagrammable as its interior. A photo with this 1950s-style restaurant is the quickest way to make yourself look like a top influencer.
The Guggenheim Museum
Looking for a place to show off your sophisticated side? Adorn your feed with art and architecture (and maybe even a celebrity or two) at the Guggenheim Museum on Manhattan's Upper East Side.
Reading Room, New York Public Library
Welcome to book heaven! Live out your New York literary fantasies with a picture of Manhattan's most-loved spot to read. Just remember to keep quiet.
Oculus at the World Trade Centre
Get a taste of the future at the Oculus at the World Trade Centre. This giant eye-shaped structure will give you serious sci-fi vibes. The blank white, symmetrical features are sure to make an eye-grabbing post.
Green-Wood Cemetery
Get in touch with Gotham's grittier side in Brooklyn's Green-Wood Cemetery. Skyline views and the stunning Gothic arch will give your feed a spooky aura. Perfect for October!
Panna II
Fans of Netflix's Daredevil series might recognise this colorful Indian restaurant. Panna II, located in Manhattan's East Village, is decorated with thousands of stunning lights in all the colours of the rainbow.
Brooklyn Botanical Gardens
No matter what the time of year, the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens are worth a visit. In the Winter, head inside to the greenhouses to snap your photos with cacti, and in the Spring, take advantage of the gorgeous cherry blossom backdrops outside.
Serra by Birreria
This restaurant is like a little taste of Scandinavia right in the middle of the city. Snap a picture with the iconic Flatiron Building in the background, or pose among the stunning, Winter-inspired decor that really make Serra by Birreria one of the most magical places in the city.
Loeb Boathouse, Central Park
The Loeb Boathouse is located right in the middle of Central Park and looks out over one of its lakes. It's been a favourite spot for many a New Yorker for over 150 years, and it's still one of the most stunning backdrops you can find in Manhattan.
Chinatown, Manhattan
The colorful signs, crowded streets, and fascinating sights of Manhattan's Chinatown are like a sensory overload. No matter which way you turn, there's something new to see.
Love Sculpture
Robert Indiana's iconic pop art sculpture lets you get a taste of fun right in the middle of the bustling Midtown crowds. Work the contrast between the bright sculpture and the gritty streets for maximum effect.
Jane's Carousel
Let your whimsy run wild. The many twinkling lights on this hand-carved 1920s carousel in Dumbo will light up your feed with a golden glow of nostalgia.