New York City is made up of five boroughs, known as the “boroughs of New York City”: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island. Each borough has its own character, history, and attractions that make it unique. From the skyscrapers of Manhattan to the beaches of Staten Island, New York is a diverse city where each borough offers something special for both locals and visitors. In this guide, we will explore the boroughs of New York City, helping you discover what to see, do, and how to make the most of your visit.
New York is one of the largest cities in the world and is divided into five boroughs, each with its own charm.
Next, we will try to present each borough of New York in an objective way, providing information and insights so that tourists can understand both the positives and challenges of each borough before exploring them.
Manhattan is undoubtedly the most famous and visited borough of New York City, a place where history, culture, and modernity collide on every corner. Home to iconic landmarks such as Times Square, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty, it also stands out as the global financial center, with Wall Street and the Financial District attracting both businesspeople and curious visitors. For skyscraper enthusiasts, Manhattan offers breathtaking views from the Empire State Building and One World Trade Center, but there are also lesser-known skyscrapers worth exploring. To learn more about these architectural marvels, check out our section on the top skyscrapers in New York City.
Photo by Jan Folwarczny on Unsplash
Photo of Manhattan at night with illuminated skyscrapers.Mark Levine
1,694,000
27,000 ppl/km²
22.8 mi² (59.1 km²)
$780,965,530
thousands of chained 2017 dollars
Manhattan is filled with attractions that delight visitors of all ages. Here are some must-see spots:
Photo by Michael Huh on Unsplash, showcasing the illuminated Summit One Vanderbilt in New York City
Central Park: A green oasis in the heart of New York, featuring:
Explore more about Manhattan and its iconic landmarks by visiting these pages:
Manhattan is not just a destination; it’s an experience that will make you feel the heartbeat of New York City. It’s impossible to explore it in a single day, so plan your visit carefully and be sure to include both the iconic landmarks and the lesser-known gems.
Brooklyn has earned a reputation as the most modern and dynamic borough of New York City. With its vibrant arts scene, neighborhoods full of character, and rich cultural offerings, it is a destination that combines the best of innovation and tradition. From the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, which offers spectacular views when crossing into Manhattan, to the peaceful Brooklyn Bridge Park, this borough has something for everyone. In recent years, Brooklyn has flourished as an epicenter of the food scene and cultural events, attracting both locals and tourists alike.
Antonio Reynoso
2,736,000
38,634 ppl/mi²
14,917 ppl/km2
70,82 mi² (183 km²)
26 sq mi (67 km²)
$107,274,215
thousands of chained 2017 dollars
Brooklyn’s neighborhoods have experienced significant demographic shifts over time. In the early to mid-20th century, Brownsville was predominantly Jewish, but since the 1970s, it has become a majority African American community. Midwood, once home to a large Irish population in the early 1900s, later became a Jewish enclave for nearly five decades and is now gradually transforming into a hub for Pakistani residents. The borough’s white population, which accounted for 97.2% in 1930, had dropped to 46.9% by 1990.
Brooklyn’s industrial past lives on in DUMBO’s iconic cobblestone streets. These historic stones, once essential for horse-drawn carriages and heavy cargo transport, now add a unique charm to the neighborhood.
If you visit Water Street, between Anchorage Place and Old Dock Street, you’ll find one of the best-preserved examples of this historic paving. The rough texture and uneven surface make strolling through this area feel like stepping back in time. Perhaps those who lived through the 20th century feel this nostalgia most, but even younger generations will appreciate capturing the beauty of these streets in photos.
With the Manhattan Bridge towering in the background, this spot offers an unforgettable scene, especially at sunset. While exploring this part of Brooklyn, take a break at the cafés and boutiques set in restored warehouses. Many of these buildings were once factories or industrial spaces, now transformed into modern businesses that retain their historic character.
Queens is the largest borough of New York City and one of the most diverse places in the world. People from over 100 countries call Queens home, and more than 160 languages are spoken, making it a true reflection of global diversity. The borough’s cultural richness is reflected in its cuisine, with restaurants offering dishes from all around the world, as well as in its cultural festivals celebrating traditions from various countries.
In Queens, you’ll find multicultural neighborhoods like Astoria, known for its strong Greek heritage, and Flushing, home to one of the largest Asian communities in New York City. The borough is also home to major attractions such as Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, which hosted two World Fairs and is where the US Open tennis tournament is held.
The World’s Fair Playground globe in Queens, NYC, a historic landmark near Grand Central Parkway. Photo by Clay LeConey on Unsplash.
2,405,464
22,068 ppl/mi²
8,521 ppl/km2
178 mi² (183 km²)
70 sq mi (67 km²)
$103,324,799
thousands of chained 2017 dollars
The neighborhoods of Queens have undergone significant changes over time. Astoria, once predominantly Greek and Italian, is now one of the most diverse neighborhoods in New York. Flushing, once a quiet area, has transformed into a vibrant hub for Chinese and Korean communities. The Hispanic population has also grown, contributing to the multicultural identity of Queens.
If you visit Queens, you’ll enjoy a rich blend of cultures, international cuisines, and unique experiences that reflect the city’s diversity.
Source: Wikipedia – Queens.
Queens is a diverse and exciting borough filled with unique attractions perfect for families with teens. Whether you’re exploring cultural landmarks or seeking thrilling activities, check out our guide to the top things to do in Queens with teens, including how to get tickets for the New York Mets.
Explore more about New York City and its iconic landmarks by visiting these pages:
The Bronx is a borough that has left a lasting mark not only on New York City but on the world. Known as the birthplace of hip-hop and home to deep cultural and historical roots, The Bronx has played a crucial role in shaping the city’s identity. Its influence extends across music, sports, cuisine, and urban development, making it an essential part of New York City’s rich cultural fabric.
Unlike the other New York City boroughs, The Bronx is the only one not primarily situated on an island. Covering 42 square miles (109 km²), it had a population of 1,472,654 according to the 2020 census. It ranks as the fourth-largest borough by area, the fourth most populous, and the third-most densely populated in the city. This combination of size and density has fostered diverse neighborhoods, vibrant communities, and a dynamic cultural scene, making The Bronx a cornerstone of New York City’s evolution.
1,384,724
32,605 ppl/mi²
12,699 ppl/km2
42,2 mi² (109 km²)
15 sq mi (40 km²)
$43.675.000
thousands of chained 2022 dollars
The Bronx has experienced significant population growth and increasing ethnic diversity from 1860 to 2021, shaping its identity as one of New York’s most culturally rich boroughs. Over the years, it has become a true melting pot, with various communities contributing to its unique identity. Exploring these demographic trends offers a fascinating insight into the evolution of the Bronx and the mix of influences that define it.
If you want to learn more about the history, neighborhoods, and cultural diversity of the Bronx, don’t miss our full article: The Bronx Neighborhoods: History, Culture, and Diversity.
In the 1970s, a new cultural movement was born in The Bronx that would later spread across the globe—hip-hop. This genre, blending music, dance, graffiti, and fashion, started at block parties in neighborhoods like South Bronx. Today, hip-hop’s influence is seen in Brooklyn’s street art, Queens’ music festivals, and even Manhattan’s mainstream entertainment industry.
While often seen as a dense urban area, The Bronx is home to some of the most expansive green spaces in New York City. Pelham Bay Park, the city’s largest park, offers nature escapes that contrast with the skyscrapers of Manhattan. The New York Botanical Garden serves as an inspiration for green initiatives across the boroughs, influencing the revitalization of areas like Brooklyn’s Prospect Park and Queens’ Flushing Meadows.
The Bronx has played a crucial role in shaping New York City’s food culture. Arthur Avenue, known as the real Little Italy, preserves authentic Italian traditions that have influenced dining scenes across the city. Many Manhattan restaurants source their ingredients from Bronx markets, and the borough’s Italian heritage has left a mark on pizzerias and bakeries throughout the city.
Beyond music, sports, and food, The Bronx has directly influenced urban development throughout the city. Affordable housing initiatives in The Bronx have served as models for similar programs in Brooklyn and Queens. The borough’s resilience and community-driven revitalization efforts have inspired city-wide policies focused on cultural preservation, economic growth, and neighborhood identity.
Baseball has long been a defining aspect of New York City’s culture, and The Bronx is at its heart. Yankee Stadium, home to the legendary New York Yankees, attracts fans from all five boroughs. The team’s rivalries and triumphs have contributed to the city’s sports culture, sparking debates in bars, homes, and stadiums from Queens to Staten Island.
But baseball isn’t the only sport that defines The Bronx. From historic basketball courts to legendary boxing gyms, this borough has way more to offer for sports fans. Whether you’re into watching a game, checking out iconic sports venues, or even jumping into the action yourself, The Bronx has something for everyone.
Explore the best sports in The Bronx in our detailed guide, where we dive into everything from basketball and soccer to the borough’s deep boxing heritage. If you’re a sports fan visiting New York City, don’t miss out on the chance to experience The Bronx’s rich athletic culture.
Check out our full guide to sports in The Bronx and feel the passion that makes this borough a true sports destination.
The neighborhoods of The Bronx have evolved over time, shaping the borough into a culturally rich and historically significant part of New York City. Arthur Avenue, often referred to as the city’s “real” Little Italy, has maintained its Italian heritage with authentic bakeries, markets, and restaurants. Fordham, home to Fordham University, is a vibrant area known for its academic influence and historic architecture. Meanwhile, Mott Haven has transformed in recent years, attracting artists and entrepreneurs while preserving its strong Latino roots.
The Bronx’s diversity is reflected in its neighborhoods, each offering unique cultural experiences, from the music and street art inspired by its hip-hop legacy to the traditional flavors of Italian and Caribbean cuisine. Exploring The Bronx is a journey through the past and present of New York City’s evolving identity.
To learn more about the neighborhoods of The Bronx, check out our full article.
Visiting the Bronx with teens can be a fun and safe experience if you know where to go. The best areas to explore include Yankee Stadium, the Bronx Zoo, Arthur Avenue, and the New York Botanical Garden. Stick to busy places during the day, use guided tours, and take express trains when using the subway. Want more tips? Check out The Safest Way to Visit the Bronx with Teens for a full guide!
Have you ever wondered what it feels like to visit a place in New York where you can ride a boat for free, see the Statue of Liberty up close, and explore quiet parks and beaches—all in the same day? Well, you’re about to discover one of the least-known parts of the Boroughs of New York City, and it might surprise you more than you think.
Staten Island is known as the most peaceful and residential borough of New York City. To reach Staten Island, you can take the famous free ferry, which offers stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline. Although it is the least visited borough by tourists, it has its own charm with natural parks and beaches.
Staten Island is one of the five boroughs of New York City, but many people skip it. Why? It’s not as famous as Manhattan or Brooklyn. But that’s what makes it special. It’s calm, green, and full of little treasures. If you want a break from the busy streets of New York, this is the place to go.
495,747
8,618.3 /sq mi
3,327.5 ppl/km2
58.5 mi² (152 km²)
44 sq mi (110 km²)
$17.539.000
thousands of chained 2022 dollars
The Staten Island Ferry is a big orange boat that runs every day—and it’s totally free! It takes about 25 minutes to cross from Manhattan to Staten Island. On the way, you’ll get amazing views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline. Bring your camera—this ride is one of the best photo spots in New York!
The Staten Island Ferry departs from Whitehall Terminal in Lower Manhattan, right next to Battery Park. It’s easy to reach by subway, with South Ferry, Whitehall St, and Bowling Green stations just steps away. If you’re coming from another borough of New York City, this is your starting point for a free ride across the harbor.
The ferry runs 24/7 and is completely free of charge. You don’t need a ticket, but we recommend checking the official schedule here before you go—especially during weekends or holidays.
Staten Island offers beautiful and spacious parks where you can connect with nature in many ways:
In the fall, the colors of the trees are stunning. During summer, you can even enjoy small beaches along the waterfront.
Want to see a real lighthouse? Staten Island has several places full of history and charm:
If you’re traveling with kids, Staten Island has great options for fun and learning:
So, what do you think—is Staten Island worth a visit? Or better yet, can a quiet, green, and relaxing place like this really be part of the fast and loud New York you know?
Let’s find out together in our next article, where we’ll show you how to plan the perfect Staten Island day trip—from ferry schedules to hidden food spots you won’t want to miss.
The neighborhoods of Staten Island have kept much of their small-town charm, even as the borough grows and evolves. Areas like St. George and Stapleton are experiencing a cultural and economic revival, with new art spaces, restaurants, and renovated waterfronts. In the south, Tottenville and Great Kills still reflect Staten Island’s suburban feel, with quiet streets and family-friendly parks.
When visiting Staten Island, you’ll discover a unique mix of old and new, where natural beauty meets community spirit and local history.
Source: Wikipedia – Staten Island.
Complete List of Staten Island Neighborhoods in New York City:
Each borough of New York City offers something unique that enhances the experience of this incredible metropolis. Manhattan, with its iconic skyscrapers and vibrant urban life, is the heart of the city, where culture and entertainment never stop. In Brooklyn, you’ll find an artistic atmosphere and lively neighborhoods that have attracted creatives from all over, from hipsters to families seeking a place with character.
Queens stands out for its diversity, where every corner offers a new culinary adventure that transports you to different parts of the world. The Bronx, known as the birthplace of hip-hop, combines history and culture on every street, while Staten Island, with its natural beauty, offers a peaceful escape and breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty.
Regardless of your interests, there is something in these five boroughs of New York City that will surely resonate with you. We encourage you to explore each one and discover the wealth of experiences this incredible city has to offer!
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New York is full of wonders waiting to be discovered. From its iconic skyscrapers to its vibrant neighborhoods and relaxing parks, every corner of the city offers something unique. Here are some of the top attractions you can’t miss during your visit:
