New York District & Neighborhoods Guides

NYC Neighborhood guide

Contents

NYC Neighborhood guide

New York City, arguably the world’s most vibrant and sprawling metropolis, occupies five boroughs, each with its own distinct identity. After all, before the historic 1898 consolidation, Manhattan, Brooklyn, the Bronx, Queens, and Staten Island were each independent municipalities.

New York is the most populous city in the United States, and the center of the New York metropolitan area, which is one of the most populous metropolitan areas in the world. A leading global city, New York exerts a powerful influence over global commerce, finance, media, culture, art, fashion, research, education, and entertainment. As the host of the United Nations Headquarters, it is also an important center for international affairs. The city is often referred to as New York City or the City of New York to distinguish it from the state of New York, of which it is a part.

The 5 Boroughs of New York

New York City is a vibrant metropolis that consists of five boroughs. Iconic skyscrapers, world-class museums, famous sports venues, and well-maintained urban parks are some of the highlights of the Big Apple. From Times Square and Central Park to the Bronx Zoo and the Brooklyn Museum, there’s plenty to explore in NYC. Operating on a 24-hour schedule, the New York City Subway makes it easy to navigate the City That Never Sleeps.

Manhattan

The world-famous skyline of NYC is primarily defined by historic and modern skyscrapers in Manhattan. This borough includes the Financial District and Midtown, which are bustling commercial districts. Some of the most recognizable buildings in Manhattan include the Empire State Building and One World Trade Center, which have observation decks.

From Museum Mile to the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, this borough has plenty of world-class cultural attractions. Theatre District, Times Square, and Madison Square Garden are premier entertainment venues that are clustered in Midtown. Shoppers will also be delighted by the seemingly endless array of designer stores and boutiques along Fifth Avenue and Madison Avenue.

Brooklyn

The cultural and recreational epicenter of Brooklyn is Prospect Park. This 525-acre oasis has a zoo, botanical gardens, monuments, and plenty of outdoor fields for play. The Brooklyn Museum anchors the eastern flank of this historic park.

Situated along the Atlantic Ocean, Coney Island is another population destination in Brooklyn. This peninsula has a lengthy boardwalk, the New York Aquarium, amusement parks, and other fun attractions.

If you’re looking to catch an NBA game or exciting show in the borough, get some tickets to the Barclays Center. This contemporary indoor arena has its own underground subway station with service from several lines.

The Bronx

As the northernmost borough of NYC, the Bronx is mostly lined with residential neighborhoods. The Bronx Zoo and New York Botanical Garden are nested in the heart of this part of the Big Apple. Besides having stunning exotic wildlife and beautiful plants, the Bronx is home to the legendary New York Yankees of the MLB.

Extending into the Long Island Sound, the massive Pelham Bay Park highlights the natural appeal of the Bronx. Occupying more than 2,700 acres, this park offers some of the best opportunities for outdoor activities in NYC.

Queens

Centrally located in Queens, the Flushing Meadows-Corona Park is the cultural and spiritual hub of the borough. This large urban park is lined with historic installations from several World Fairs. The Queens Museum, New York Hall of Science, and Queens Zoo are conveniently located within walking distance of each other.

The northern end of the park is anchored by the USTA National Tennis Center which hosts the U.S. Open each year. You don’t have to walk far from the park to watch some great MLB action at Citi Field. Home to LaGuardia Airport and John F. Kennedy International Airport, this borough plays an important role in the city’s extensive transportation network. Click to book your NYC Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour.

Staten Island

The New York Harbor separates Staten Island from the rest of the boroughs. You won’t find soaring skyscrapers and crowded avenues in this part of NYC. Instead, the island is home to several charming attractions that cater to families. The Snug Harbor Cultural Center, Historic Richmond Town, and Staten Island Museum offer fascinating insights into the heritage of this area.

The most exciting way to reach the island is by taking the Staten Island Ferry. This express service runs between St. George Terminal and Whitehall Terminal in Lower Manhattan.