New York, New York, so nice they named it twice. It's one of the most vibrant, bustling and exciting cities in the world, and also, in my opinion, one of the most photogenic. New York is packed with iconic landmarks, sky high views, and aesthetic restaurants, making it an amazing destination for keen photographers and creatives.
Over my last few visits, I've been on a mission to see, do, and capture as much of the city as possible. As such, I've put together a guide to the best Instagram spots in New York. I've included all my favourite places to snap pictures, and plenty of tips to get the most out of your trip!
01. Top of The Rock
New York has countless observation decks, with more seemingly popping up every time I visit. However, you can't beat a classic. Top of The Rock is one of my favourites from a photography perspective - I love the old school binoculars as a photo prop, and the view of the Empire State Building is just iconic. I'd recommend booking tickets in advance online, or buying a CityPass. I usually aim for one of the first slots to get photos before it gets too busy. However I've never been in the middle of the day so can't really compare!
Top Tip: If you want photos without glass panes, head to the very top floor for an unobstructed view.
02. Brooklyn Bridge
I know, I know, everyone and their dog's grandma has a photo on Brooklyn Bridge. Sure, it's a bit of a tourist cliche, but still, it might just be my favourite photo spot in all of New York. It's got satisfying symmetry, is simple enough to make a great outfit backdrop, and it's such an NYC icon.
Top Tip: I'd recommend coming at sunrise to avoid the worst of the crowds, as the bridge can get extremely busy. Even first thing in the morning you'll have early bird cyclists, runners and jet-lagged tourists, but with a little patience empty shots are possible. Sunset is another beautiful time light-wise, however you'll have more luck with a side shot due to crowds at this time.
03. DUMBO
Another popular shot is this iconic view of Manhattan Bridge from Brooklyn's DUMBO neighbourhood. This street is called Washington Street, and it perfectly frames the bridge, flanked by two red brick Brooklyn buildings. It really does feel like that classic New York snap.
Top Tip: Though it's not the best light as it's quite contrasted, sunrise is realistically the only time you're going to get a remotely clear shot, as this spot gets extremely crowded.
04. Tudor City Bridge
In West Manhattan you'll find this bridge overlooking East 42nd street. It's a great photo opp as it's such a distinctly New York street, from the steady stream of yellow taxis to the Chrysler Building in the distance.
I loved this spot, because the two times I shot here on my trip, we had it pretty much all to ourselves! In Summer the trees lining the street will be full and green, which I'd love to come back and capture as I imagine they'd really make the image pop.
Tudor City Bridge is actually a famous photography spot twice a year around May and July, when a phenomenon called Manhattanhenge occurs. The sunset aligns perfectly with the city grid, leading to some pretty dramatic photo opps. Tudor City Bridge is one of the most popular places to snap this, but you'll have to go early as the bridge gets packed out hours in advance.
Top Tip: I visited on a gloomy day (left), and a sunny day at sunrise (right), which led to very different vibes. I'm actually not sure which I prefer - let me know your preference!
05. Boucherie West Village
New York is undeniably better known for it's cheap eats, grab and go pizzas and no frills delis. However, it more than holds it's own when it comes to aesthetic restaurants. My personal favourite is Boucherie in the West Village, a classic French restaurant. The interiors are absolutely stunning - Art Nouveau posters, bistro accents, and a striking mirrored bar. It's a beautiful photo, but also, a really great meal - and make sure to try the cocktails!
Top Tip: At opening on a weekday the restaurant is usually quite quiet, making it ideal for snaps. However I imagine it's a lot more vibey by night!
06. Central Park
It's not a trip to New York without a wander round Central Park. The cities iconic green space is a must whether you're looking to take photos, or just enjoy some green space amidst the concrete jungle. It's particularly beautiful in Spring and Autumn. During the former you'll find cherry blossoms in various spots around the park, such as these captured on the West Side. I've yet to visit in Autumn, but when the leaves turn red it looks pretty incredible!
07. Bakeri
I'd had images of Brooklyn cafe and bakery Bakeri saved on Instagram for the longest time, and finally got to see and capture it for myself. It became Insta-famous for it's unique vegetable themed wallpaper at the Greenpoint branch, although they all look fairly aesthetic. The table at the front near the window is my favourite spot, although it's quite tight for photos with the counter just opposite. Bakeri isn't just gram-worthy however; they also do excellent coffee and sweet treats.
08. Alwyn Court
New York isn't as known for it's beautiful buildings as say, Paris or London. However it holds it's own! One of my favourites is Alwyn Court, which can be found between Times Square and Central Park. The building is incredibly ornate up close, built in the French Renaissance style with lavish terracotta carvings. I particularly liked shooting it from across the road, to capture the full scale of the buildings, and yellow cabs passing by.
09. The High Line
The High Line is a raised walkway stretching from Meatpacking up to Hudson Yards. It's around a 45 minute walk from top to bottom, allowing a unique view out over the streets and neighbourhoods on route. You'll also find art installations and greenery to explore as you wander. In a city with very little green space, it's a refreshing break. Oh, and free to visit!
There's plenty of photo opps along the way - these photos were taken towards the Meatpacking end. However it does get extremely busy, particularly in good weather, so I'd recommend going early, or prepare to be patient. I was a very jetlagged at 7am when we took these, and had the whole route pretty much to ourselves!
10. Chinatown
One of the neighbourhoods of Manhattan I most love exploring (camera in tow) is Chinatown. It's such a vibrant area, with so many interesting things to see, discover, and snap. The juxtaposition of the iconic New York apartments with exterior fire escapes, paired with the bright colours and maximalist shop fronts, makes for some really striking backdrops. Some of the most picturesque parts are around Pell, Mott, and Doyers Street.
Top Tip: Chinatown is always busy, so lean into the crowds - it adds to the vibrancy of a classic bustling NYC street scene.
A special mention also to the Flatiron Building, which is a classic and oh so photogenic New York landmark that's great for a snap. However unfortunately it's been under scaffolding the last couple of times I've visited, so I haven't had a chance to capture it myself!
I hope this guide to Instagram spots in New York has been helpful - let me know any locations I've missed, or other guides you'd like to see.
Pin Me
