5 Must See Places in New York for Students
No matter the subject, you’ll be sure to find many relevant places to visit in New York. Commonly known as ‘The Big Apple’, this city is a hub of history, culture, art and so much more, making it an ideal destination for school trips. It offers a number of incredible learning experiences for your students, from historical landmarks to inspiring galleries and intriguing museums. In this article, we’re here to recommend our top 5 must see places in New York! So let’s get started.
5 Places to visit in New York City
Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is one of the must-see places to visit on any New York school trip. Towering above Manhattan, this landmark is not only an iconic piece of the city’s skyline but also a glimpse into the city’s history, innovation, and architectural prowess.
The building’s story begins during the Great Depression, when it was constructed as part of a bold project that employed thousands of workers, becoming a symbol of hope and resilience during a difficult period. Today, students can explore its vibrant history, gaining insights into the economic, social and architectural ambitions of 1930s America. As one of the world’s most famous skyscrapers, it has also influenced the design of tall buildings globally, setting standards in both style and engineering.
The experience doesn’t end there! At the top, students will be greeted with breathtaking, panoramic views. From the observation deck, they can spot Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, and more, bringing geography lessons to life as they take in the city’s landscape and layout.
The Statue of Liberty
Lady Liberty is one of the most significant places to visit in New York, embodying the ideals of freedom and democracy. Since it was gifted by France in 1884, it has welcomed immigrants from all over the world to the U.S.A., making this historic site an essential stop for any educational trip to New York.
Students can learn about the engineering feats that made the statue possible, including its intricate iron framework designed by Gustave Eiffel, which allowed it to withstand the elements. A visit to Liberty Island also includes access to the informative museum, with interactive exhibits, multimedia displays, and personal stories that showcase the statue’s history, its role in American society and the challenges and triumphs faced by immigrants.
With breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline and the chance to walk around the statue itself, a trip to the Statue of Liberty is not only a visual spectacle but also an enriching educational experience.
Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Metropolitan Museum of Art is undeniably one of the must-see places in New York. As the fourth largest museum in the world, it features art from over the last 5,000 years, including stunning examples of Asian art, intricate European sculptures, and exquisite decorative arts.
Students can explore medieval and Renaissance masterpieces, captivating drawings and prints, as well as an impressive array of antiquities from ancient civilisations. The museum also features modern and contemporary art that showcases the evolution of artistic expression into the present day.
Some of the most famous artworks in the Met Museum include:
- Queen Mother Pendant Mask: This stunning ivory mask represents the power of the Edo people of Benin, highlighting the museum’s extensive collection of African art and the cultural significance of this piece in representing royal lineage.
- The Death of Socrates: Painted by Jacques-Louis David, this neoclassical masterpiece depicts the moment before Socrates takes his poison, exemplifying themes of morality, sacrifice, and philosophy.
- The Starry Night: One of Vincent van Gogh's most celebrated works, this iconic painting captures the swirling night sky over a quiet village—an excellent opportunity for students to discuss the emotional impact of colour and brushwork in art.
Central Park
Next on our list of places to visit in New York is the iconic Central Park. Nestled among the city’s towering skyscrapers, it’s a wonderful place for a brief escape from the hustle and bustle, allowing students to relax and enjoy the scenic views.
For those who are studying environmental sciences, Central Park is a living example of urban ecology. They can explore the park’s ecosystems, which include woodlands and diverse bodies of water, whilst learning about efforts to conserve green spaces.
Art students will also find inspiration here, as Central Park is home to numerous statues, monuments, and memorials that reflect the city’s cultural and artistic heritage. Highlights include:
- Strawberry Fields: A peaceful memorial dedicated to John Lennon, which attracts admirers from around the world.
- Alice in Wonderland Statue: A whimsical bronze sculpture that brings to life the beloved characters from Lewis Carroll’s classic tale.
- Cleopatra’s Needle: A 3,000-year-old Egyptian obelisk that offers a glimpse into ancient history.
- Hans Christian Andersen Statue: A tribute to the famous fairy-tale author, beloved by children and adults alike.
This picturesque city park is the perfect learning landscape for your students!
Times Square
If your students are studying business, then invite them to explore Times Square. Often referred to as "The Crossroads of the World," this popular attraction is a hub of activity, illuminated by dazzling digital billboards filled with advertisements. This offers a unique insight into contemporary marketing strategies and the creative approaches businesses use to capture the attention of consumers.
In addition to its focus on business, Times Square is a cultural melting pot, providing students with a glimpse of New York's diverse identity. The area is home to street performers, artists, and a myriad of cultural events, enhancing your students’ understanding of how entertainment and commerce intersect in one of the world’s most famous locales.
Other must-see places in New York
The list certainly doesn’t end there. Not when you come to New York! Here’s a list of some of our other recommendations for top things to do in New York City:
- Broadway
- The National 9/11 Memorial & Museum
- The High Line
- Brooklyn Bridge
- Top of the Rock
- Grand Central Terminal
Book a New York trip for college students today
There are many places to visit in New York City, and we can organise trips to locations like these on your student trip when you book with us. We offer many different college trips to the Big Apple, including:
- New York History school trips
- New York Geography school trips
- New York Art & Design school trips
- New York English & Drama school trips
- New York Culture school trips
- New York Business Studies school trips
- New York Music school trips
- New York Maths school trips
So, what are you waiting for? Request a quote or get in touch today to learn more.