It’s your first night in New York City with your camera in hand and you’re ready to hit the streets, but where should you go? You’re in luck, because this guide highlights several spots where you can capture a ton of images. Most first-time visitors to NYC stay at hotels in and around Times Square. If that’s you, all you’ll need are comfortable shoes and an extra camera battery.
As a New Yorker and you will hear this from other New Yorkers, we avoid Times Square like the plague. It’s worth walking through once in your life to check it off the bucket list, but that’s about it. Times Square is overcrowded, overly commercialized, and a tourist trap, not exactly the best place if you want to capture the true feel of NYC.
Where Should You Go?
East of Times Square, however, is a treasure trove of iconic historic buildings, towering office towers, local businesses, and beautiful quiet neighborhoods. Start by walking east down 42nd Street toward Grand Central Terminal.
Grand Central Terminal
Grand Central Terminal, which opened in 1913, has remained a majestic architectural landmark of NYC. Its illuminated exterior holds its own among the surrounding skyscrapers, and its magnificent, cavernous interior practically begs to be photographed.
Tudor Bridge
A 12-minute walk further east along 42nd Street will bring you to the Tudor Bridge, located in the historic Tudor City district. The bridge offers a fantastic view of the entire length of 42nd Street.
Midtown East
From Tudor City, head north on either 2nd or 3rd Avenue. These well-lit streets are lively in the evening and offer plenty of opportunities for street photography. At 50th Street, turn west toward 6th Avenue.
Rockefeller Center
Your walk will lead you to Rockefeller Center, an Art Deco masterpiece spanning 22 acres between 48th and 51st Streets. This complex is home to Radio City Music Hall, NBC Studios, and the observation deck at Top of the Rock. From here, you’ll be just a short walk back to your hotel.
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