If you’re visiting New York City, Midtown Manhattan offers some of the most famous sights and landmarks the metropolis has to offer. Many of the quintessential structures people from all over the world associate with New York City are found in this section. Our Manhattan workers compensation lawyers thought we’d share some of our favorite attractions in Midtown:
Empire State Building
New York City’s most iconic skyscraper is one of the most popular tourist destinations for visitors to the city. Named for the state’s nickname of the Empire State, this audacious structure represents the spirit of the city. 86 years after it’s 1931 construction, the Empire State Building is still the fifth-tallest skyscraper in the United States.
Depending on when you’re in the city, the skyscraper could be decorated with a number of different colored lights. If you’re out for a night on the town for Valentine’s Day, you’ll see it lit up with red, white, and pink. The tower is lit up in green for Saint Patrick’s Day celebrations and in rainbow colors for Pride Week.
A trip to the observation decks between the 86th and 102nd floor is a must for anyone visiting Midtown Manhattan. Take in breathtaking panoramic views of the entire city while basking in the history of this magnificent skyscraper.
Grand Central Terminal
Grand Central Terminal is a gorgeous piece of architecture and one of the few remaining historic train stations in the country. The station underwent a restoration effort which was completed in 1998 – restoring the original station’s blue and gold-leaf zodiac mural with its trademark thousands of lights.
Grand Central Terminal is far more than a train station. You can enjoy oysters at the famous Grand Central Oyster Par, and eat at a variety of other restaurants. Grab a drink at one of the station’s many pubs, or squeeze in some Christmas shopping from the multitude of retail options.
Madison Square Garden
Most well-known as the home of the Knicks, Rangers, and Liberty, Madison Square Garden is filled with history of sports heroics and concerts from legendary musicians. Some of the most famous events from this history include the Rangers’ 1994 Stanley Cup victory and Willis Reed’s epic 1970 NBA Finals performances. Famous musicians who’ve played here include Billy Joel, Tina Turner, U2, Jay-Z, and many, many others. The Garden is also home to the famous Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. Even if there’s not an event going on here, you can still tour the recently renovated world-famous arena.
New York Public Library
The New York Public Library is one of the most famous and historic libraries on earth. The exterior is guarded on either side by two stone lions named Patience and Fortitude, which have acted as the library’s mascots for over 100 years. The interior of the library is exquisitely decorated, and you can feel the history of the building as soon as you walk through the doors. Books are mainly requested electronically these days, but the collection is still available for public use.
Famous writers like Norman Mailer, Elizabeth Bishop, and E.L. Doctorow have all consulted the collection for writing inspiration.
The library regularly hosts special events, including celebrity book readings, educational seminars, and art exhibitions.
Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Center is a 22-acre complex of retail stores, commercial offices, and open spaces which are used for a variety of special events. While much of the city’s business flows through this complex, it’s also an extremely popular tourist destination. During the holiday season, countless tourists visit to witness the famous Christmas tree lighting. The Center also features a sunken ice-skating rink, which during the summer operates as the Summer Garden & Bar.
