Its world-class museums, iconic structures and first-rate attractions lure millions of visitors every year. The best way to take it all in? Do as the locals do and see the sites by foot.

Empire State Building Soaring high above mid-town at 102-storys, this iconic landmark is an unforgettable way to get the best views of the city. 350 5th Avenue, New York, NY, 212-736-3100, esbnyc.com

Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) With a permanent collection featuring some of the most important examples of modern art from the late nineteenth century to today by artists such as Van Gogh, Pollock and Picasso, their temporary exhibitions never disappoint. 11 West 53rd Street, New York, NY, 212-708-9400, moma.org

Times Square Prepare for stimulation overload at this busy pedestrian intersection where flashing billboards and commercial signage light up the sky, and Broadway Theatres call home. Broadway and 7th Avenue, New York, NY, timessquarenyc.org

Grand Central Terminal Even if you have nowhere to go, it’s worth exploring this century-old landmark with its celestial mural in the concourse, whispering walls and legendary Oyster bar. 87 East 42nd Street, New York, NY, 212-883-2420, grandcentralterminal.com

Take in Broadway A trip NYC isn’t complete until you see at least one show along the theatre strip. Take in a drama, comedy or musical, a classic or a new production, and you might even see a famous celebrity or two. Broadway Avenue, New York, NY, broadway.com

Explore Central Park The most-visited park in America is the heartbeat of New York City. Swing by for a picnic lunch, sun and lounge on the rocks, or a stroll around the iconic ponds. Central Park, New York, NY, 212-310-6600, centralparknyc.org

Visit the MET Possibly one of the most famous museums in New York City if not the world, the Metropolitan Museum is always home to some of the best fashion exhibits around. 1000 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY, 212-535-7710, metmuseum.org

Stroll the High Line Next to Central Park, the High Line (a former railway track) is one of New York’s best green spaces and covers just over one-and-a-half kilometres in length. Stroll it with coffee in hand, and watch out for runners who love to jog along the strip. The High Line, New York, NY, 212-500-6035, thehighline.org

Walk the Brooklyn Bridge Walking across this iconic bridge not only gets you over to trendy Brooklyn Heights, it’s also some of the best spots to get pictures of the Manhattan skyline. Brooklyn Bridge, New York, NY, brooklynbridgepark.org