New York City (NYC) is Instagram City. No, it really is.
There are tons of photos on Instagram of NYC making it one of the most Instagrammable places in the world.
Just taking a pic walking across the street can be instagrammable.
So instead of sticking with the usual suspects, I decided to put together a list of my favorite shots. Some you may have heard of and some might be new to you. But I can guarantee you that they are some of the best Instagram spots in NYC to get that shot.
Okay so let's get into the Best NYC Instagram Spots. BUT FIRST…
Instagram Tips: How to get the Perfect Shot.
- First get there early. I will be sure to include more tips below however if you want to avoid the crowds in places like the Brooklyn Bridge then you want to make sure you get there early.
- And if you are lazy like me then learn your angles. If you are in a crowded area if you shoot from below you can set up the shot so that the crowds do not come up in your frame. This takes a bit of practice but you can do it.
- Look for inspo. I am not saying you should copy but look up the location that you are hoping to visit on Instagram to see where others are getting their shots. You will be surprised at what you find.
- Have fun and follow the rules. Yes. We are all trying to be instafamous (me included) but it is not worth risking your life, breaking the law or just stressing yourself.
Planning a vist? Before you go check out our guide to New York City on a Budget.
The Best NYC Instagram Spots in New York City
In order to make this as genuine as possible, I am using actual Instagram posts that I published on Instagram in the past year or so.
So let's get started.
Brooklyn Bridge
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This is one of those spots where it pays to get there early. We arrived at 8am and should have planned to be there a lot earlier.
If you are making a day of it I recommend starting on the Manhattan Side and walking over the bridge.
Check out my cheap guide on how to do Brooklyn for under $10.
And if you get there late it is ok. This is one of those places where angle is everything. This pic was taken from down below which help give the appearance of less people.
DUMBO
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You know that shot in Dumbo that everyone is always trying to get. Yeah. This isn't it. This is it's less crowded sister. Take the time to walk around DUMBO. You will be surprised at how many hidden gems are just right around the corner from that Insta Famous spot. Just for reference, this photo was taken at around 6pm on a Friday evening.
Red Hook Valentino Pier
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Venture out to Brooklyn and Check out Valentino Pier in Red Hook where you can get an awesome view of the Statue of Liberty. After you're done with your shots if the weather is nice pack a picnic, and sit on the grass with views of the Statue of Liberty.
If you fancy a little bit of wine about 5 minute walk away is Red Hook Winery. Visit for a tasting and stay for a glass or bottle. This is actually one of my favorite spots to visit in the winter.
Rooftop Bars
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With so many rooftop bars in the city, there is no shortage of places to get that perfect shot. Extra points if you plan your happy hour around golden hour. Get your perfect Instagram shot and then enjoy drinks after.
On a Budget? Check out these budget friend rooftop Happy Hours in New York City. There are even options that are great all year long.
Pier 35
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This spot is still a bit under that radar so let's try to keep it that way. It is one of the Lower East Side's newest green space along the East River. It is a great spot for picnicking and pictures of course. With views of Brooklyn, the river and the bridges it is a great spot to spend an afternoon or early evening.
Mott Haven-South Bronx
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Take a break from Manhattan and head north to the Bronx. Mott Haven and the South Bronx have some of the best street art in NYC. There are amazing murals around every corner.
After your done with your shots check out Beatsro for Hip Hop Brunch. Just make sure to get reservations. They tend to get busy on the weekends.
East Broadway, Chinatown
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Chinatown has some great cheap eats. Check out our guide to NYC on a Budget for more cheap eats.
Right on the border of Chinatown and the Lower East Side, on East Broadway, you will find some of the best views of the Freedom Tower. This is one of my favorite spots for various reasons. Skip your usual Freedom Tower Shot and opt for something with a little taste of a few of the oldest neighborhoods in New York City.
Flushing Meadow Park
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Let's venture to Queens. More specifically Flushing Meadows Park. This is also an amazing place to go for cherry blossom season.
Sezane Apartment
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A little bit of Paris in Soho. Fine. So there is no secret that this place is popular with influencers. I mean how can you pass up the opportunity. This is one of those spots where it pays to get there early. Start here, skip the expensive boozy Soho brunch and head to Chinatown for some DimSum.
Washington Square Park
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If it reminds you of Paris is because it was designed after the Arc d'Triomphe. The Arch in Washington Square Park is the perfect spot to get “That Shot” and also feel like you're transported to Europe.
In the summer the park fills up with musicians, artists and even acrobats. (Free Entertainment People).
In the winter you will find people still wandering through the park and taking in the views of the Empire State Building down 5th avenue.
BONUS: Washington Square Park is located near NYU which means that the area is surround by college budget friendly spots. This is where you can indulge in some cheap eats and sips.
East River Park, Lower East Side
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Skip Dumbo and head to the Lower East Side where you can avoid the crowds and get some stunning pictures of the Williamsburg Bridge. Many people overlook this side of Manhattan and flock to the iconic Brooklyn Bridge but why not try something different.
BONUS: After you're done with your shots take a walk over the Williamsburg Bridge to Williamburg where you find amazing rooftops, restaurants and bars with amazing views of the city.
Go on a Sunset Cruise of NYC
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Switch things up with a Sunset Cruise around the Island of Manhattan. With unobstructed views are you bound to get your perfect Instagram shot.
Some of our faves:
New York City Harbor Lights Cruise
Have I convinced you to plan a trip to NYC yet!!?? Hehe
Where Can I Take Pictures of the NYC Skyline
What's an Instagram shot without the iconic NYC skyline. Here are some amazing spots to get the perfect NYC skyline shot.
Brooklyn Bridge Park
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Once you're over the bridge be sure to check out Brooklyn Bridge Park. There are so many amazing photo ops here. You are guaranteed to get amazing views of the City.
This is my favorite spot. If you follow me on Instagram you will see me here over and over and over again.
Governor's Island
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Governor's Island is open from May 1st to October 31st so as soon as the weather warms up its the perfect place. The Ferry leaves from Battery Maritime Terminal in Manhattan or Pier 6 in Brooklyn and is free before 11 am. First Ferry is at 10am.
What is great about Governor's Island is, of course, the views. From the Freedom Tower and lower Manhattan to the Statue of Liberty. You can just spend the day taking photos.
After your done with your shots be sure to get out Island Oyster for drinks, bites and more views.
Pier 26
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Located on the Hudson River near Chelsea, Pier 26 offers amazing views of the Freedom Tower and Lower Manhattan. The best part is that is rarely crowded. So you don't have to get up at the crack of dawn to get that shot.
Even though it was winter and a bit chilly this shot was taken in the last afternoon when you would expect people to be out. We pretty much had plenty of spots to get our shots that day.
The Best Instagrammable Places in NYC
I put together a map to help you figure out where to go on your next Instagram adventure. Check out these spots and don't forget to use hashtag #poorinaprivateplane
Like what you read? Did you find it helpful? Don't forget to share and pin for later.
Nina | Lemons and Luggage says
Wowww!! I’ve never been to New York but have been thinking about booking a flight. These pics make me want to go so much more!!!
Taima says
Ahh you have to plan a trip. Fall is one of my favorite times of year here too. Hope you get to come visit soon.