NYC is easily one of the coolest and most Instagram-worthy places in the world. There are plenty of picturesque sights (looking at you, Central Park), quaint neighborhoods (helloooo West Village) and superb skyline shots (do I even need to mention the Brooklyn Bridge?) that are worthy to be captured on digital film. It’s also a fabulous destination for a girls trip. There are endless places where you and the ladies can get a great shot and “do it for the ‘gram!”
The best part is that most of these Instagram-worthy places in NYC are free to visit as well! They’re literally intersections of popular streets that anyone can access or popular, must-see tourist locations. But, how do you get the perfect shot? I’m full of photography tips too! Today’s post includes a roundup of my favorite places in NYC that are worth a place in everyone’s Instagram feed.
Instagram Worthy Places In NYC
New York City is pretty magical. The way the light cuts through the streets and bounces off the buildings can make for some gorgeous photos, no matter what time of year it is. But, it’s also one of the busiest places in the world, making it tough sometimes to get a good picture. To get the best snap at the most Instagram-worthy places in NYC it can take a little bit of planning and even more patience. But, I promise it’s worth it!
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Instagrammable Spots in New York City
Whether you’re going on a stellar girls trip or planning a family getaway, you’ll want some amazing photos to remember the experience. These days, the latest iPhone works nearly as well as a fancy camera. But, you may want to book a photographer to make it easier (especially if you’re doing family photos). Take it from the girl who’s used a tripod on the Brooklyn Bridge! Below are a few of photogs I love:
Bloggers – Allie Provost – Pret a Photo
Family / Weddings – Laura Huertas
Brooklyn Bridge – Get Directions
My first pro tip: get to the bridge early (at sunrise) or it will get too crowded! If you’re visiting the city during the week, you’ll be dealing with lots of bikers whizzing by you to come to the city for work. I normally enter off Canal Street. Take the photos with your back to the city so the New York City skyline your back drop.
Pietra Nolita – Get Directions
Located at 174 Elizabeth Street, this pink restaurant is every bloggers (and tourists) dream. The outdoor area is very cute and I hear the food is delicious. If you can come when the restaurant is closed, that’s best so you can sit on the benches. There is also a very cute door with graffiti that makes for an Insta-worthy moment all on its own.
Central Park – Get Directions
So many engagements happen and are photographed in Central Park and it’s no wonder why. It’s a calm spot in the city that is surrounded by skyscrapers. There are several spots where you can get “the shot” First, head to the bridge at xx. It will look very familiar, as many movies feature this spot. Then, get a photo with the New Yorker hotel sign in the background. Lastly, take a picture sitting on one of the benches in the park.
Time Square – Get Directions
Arguably one of the biggest tourist traps in the city, Time Square is next to never quiet. So, don’t worry about when you visit as much (but just before or after lunch time is ideal). The goal is to get a quintessential New York City cab in the background. But, be sure to stand in a spot that isn’t dangerous!
Dumbo – Get Directions
Perhaps the most Instagrammable of all, the Brooklyn Bridge view in Dumbo is #goals. Head to Washington St. and Water St. for a view like the one above. In general, this location is in a spot that isn’t super busy. So, you’re mostly just waiting for other tourists and photographers to get their shots. Another great alternative to this spot is Brooklyn Bridge Park!
Nomo Soho – Get Directions
One of my favorite places to stay in the city, Nomo Soho has an iconic entrance that gets it added to the list of Instagram-worthy places in NYC. The hotel itself is beautiful. But, the ivy covered arches laced with string lights make it grand. If too many people are outside of the hotel, try grabbing a table inside at Nomo Kitchen. The bar and restaurant are very chic, complete with gorgeous chandeliers draped above the tables.
Flatiron building – Get Directions
When it comes to uniquely shaped buildings, New York City has its fair share. But, the Flatiron Building is likely the most well-known! Located in midtown, this is a highly-trafficked part of town. So, try to stand in the center of the island if you can. Then, ask whoever takes your photo to step back quite a bit and “get low” so they can angle the shot up towards the building. If you’re using a newer iPhone, try panning out to 0.5 mode which zooms out to capture more of the surrounding area.
Stuyvesant Street – Get Directions
Located at Stuyvesant Street between 2nd and 3rd Ave, this charming spot was on my list for a few years before I finally visited. Bloggers have made this spot popular, and while it’s pretty in fall, it’s even prettier in winter. To capture the building from top to bottom, your photographer will need to stand on the other side of the street. To add more movement, try stepping down off the sidewalk or walking across the street.
West Village – Get Directions
The stoops in the West Village are just the cutest (especially during the holidays) and have Sex in the City vibes. This one is near the Starbucks in the West Village. I’m also a big fan of the area near the LoveShackFancy store. With the floral display on the outside of the window, it can give your photo a sweet, feminine feel.
NYC Subway Stations – Get Directions
What’s more *iconic than a NYC subway station? Any one will do, but this one is in Soho, behind The Roxy Hotel.
Soho – Greene St and Grand St – Get Directions
With an array of chic boutiques lining the streets and muted buildings, this part of Soho makes for great city shots. Once the morning traffic has died down, you’ll have the street to yourself for photos.
Soho – Church St and Walker St – Get Directions
Seemingly just another intersection in Soho, I love this spot for group photos. It’s near The Roxy Hotel and is in an area that is normally a bit quieter. But, it gives you the Soho vibe with the buildings in the background.
The Roxy Hotel – Get Directions
Like I mentioned in this post, this hotel is adorable. At the front of the building outside they have a big lamp post clock that adds tons of character. It’s located at 2 6th Avenue, right between Soho and the Village.
Soho – Crosby St – Get Directions
Grab your girl gang and take a fab photo at the end of Crosby Street. It’s one of the most photographed spots in Soho. But, it’s also fairly busy with the Nomo Soho on this street. Also, beware of the cobblestone streets if you’re in high heels!
Greenwich Village – Get Directions
This ivy covered corner is a must-see in Greenwich Village. It’s at 11th and Greenwich Street. A word of caution though! During winter it doesn’t look like this. So, plan to see this Instagrammable spot in spring or summer.
Other Spots in NYC for Great Pics
A few of the most Instagrammable places in NYC require admission fees, like the Empire State Building (aka Top of the Rock) and the Statue of Liberty. Since they’re major tourist attractions, I highly recommend you get to both of those locations as early as possible! Even if it’s just a few minutes, it can make a huge difference to getting a photo you love versus one with dozens of people in the background.
Still need more photo inspo? Try one of the below locations:
Chelsea Market
Chinatown
The High Line
One World Trade Observatory
My Top Tips to Take Great Photos
What makes a great photo? Aside from incredible natural light pouring through the NYC streets, it’s normally the emotion. So, remember to smile big! Link arms and laugh if you’re taking photos with the girls. Or, look at each other to create more candid moments. You can kiss, hold hands, and put your arms around each other if you’re shooting your engagement photos.
For my ladies, try using a setting spray after doing your makeup to help it stay fresh. Personally, I like to curl my hair! It sounds silly. But, the photos always turn out better.
Here’s the beauty of New York City – nearly every street corner has something to offer (and I don’t mean a knockoff designer handbag or a warm pretzel). For example, during the holidays so many of the department stores decorate their stores, making for even more picturesque moments. And, you can’t miss the ice skating rink at Rockefeller Center!
Making a complete list of Instagram-worthy places in NYC would be exhausting! But, my recommendations included here are tried and true. I hope this guide to the most Instagrammable places in New York City has been helpful!
Have another spot you love? Share it in the comments below.
