One of the most distinguished districts in the world, Midtown New York is an exhilarating place to discover on foot. That is why we created this easy-to-follow Self-Guided Midtown Manhattan Walking Tour!
The buzzing energy of NYC is palpable. Legendary high-rises loom overhead, while honking horns provide the soundtrack on the streets below.
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In the forest of skyscrapers, it’s easy to get a bit turned around. Therefore, we are sharing our self-guided walk that leads you straight to the must-see sights of Midtown NYC!
Our Self-Guided Midtown Manhattan Walking Tour
We can’t imagine visiting New York City and not spending time in Midtown. In fact, we recommend using this walk on Day 1 in both our New York One Week Itinerary and our 4 Days in NYC Budget Itinerary.
Below, you will find a map of Midtown Manhattan that marks each sight to see with a route overview. In order to get from one stop to the next, use the pin drops provided for each attraction.
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Self-Guided Walking Tour Manhattan Midtown
The route of our Midtown Manhattan Tour starts at the Flatiron Building and ends in Times Square. The walk covers about 3 miles and should take around 3 hours to complete (with plenty of time for photos and exploring).
Later in the article we offer recommendations for Midtown restaurants and nearby attractions so that you can extend your sightseeing, if you choose.
#1 Flatiron Building and Madison Square Park
MAP. We are kicking off our tour in Flatiron Public Plaza. It’s technically a couple blocks south of the official Midtown Manhattan NY boundary, but a fantastic spot to ease into the district (and the Flatiron is a must-see!).
The 22-story, triangular Flatiron Building was completed in 1902. At the time, it was one of the tallest buildings in the city.
The name is derived from the architectural design, which resembles a clothes iron. Unfortunately, the building is not open to the public.
The lush and leafy Madison Square Park sits next to Flatiron Public Plaza. This pocket of green space has been open to the public since 1686. Within the park there is a reflecting pool, playground and statues – plus, the original Shake Shack.
Before leaving the area, stand with your back toward the pointed tip of the Flatiron Building. From here, set your eyes on the next stop on our tour of Midtown.
#2 Empire State Building
MAP. Without a doubt, the Empire State Building is one of the most recognizable edifices in the world – and it’s a must-see sight on any Midtown walking tour!
The Art Deco structure has been a symbol of New York since it was completed in 1931. Its total height, including the antenna, is 1,454 feet – and it reigned as the world’s tallest building from 1931 until 1970.
It’s free to step inside the lobby to see the interior design. If you want to pause your walking tour and check out the view from the 86th and 102nd story observations decks, buy your ticket in advance.
Top Travel Tip: If you are going to NYC at Christmas (or are an avid shopper), we think it’s worthwhile to make a quick detour to Macy’s (MAP).
#3 New York Public Library
MAP. No walk in Midtown would be complete without stopping by the main branch of the New York Public Library. The elaborate NYPL opened in 1911 and is an important NYC landmark.
Marble stairs climb to the arched and columned entrance – and two stone lions (named Patience and Fortitude) fiercely guard the building.
However, the real gems lay inside. Visitors are welcome to tour some of the library’s most elaborate spaces, including Astor Hall, the Periodical Room and Map Collection Room.
That said, our favorite space is the Rose Main Reading Room, which is lined with thousands of books. However, it is only open to visitors one hour a day or via the free guided tour. You can find more info on the NYPL website.
#4 Bryant Park
MAP. Behind the library is beautiful Bryant Park. The land was established as a public space in 1686, but it was not officially designated as a park until 1847.
Throughout the 1970s Bryant Park was the site of unruly rallies, seedy behavior and a blight on Midtown. However, in 1988 the park was completely renovated, including the bathrooms, which had been closed for 35 years.
Today, they are an odd highlight of a visit here. The public restrooms are said to be the nicest in the entire city, complete with floral arrangements, classical music, air conditioning and an attendant.
That said, the reason we include Bryant Park on our walking tour in Midtown is for the lovely landscaping and foliage. Additionally, it’s a hive of activity, with a regular line up of classes and entertaining events year round.
#5 New York City Grand Central Terminal
MAP. Grand Central Station has been a hub of NYC transportation since 1913. Today 750,000 people pass through GCT every day. It’s not only a place to hop a train; it also attracts visitors with an array of shops and restaurants.
The sophisticated Main Concourse is not to be missed. Be sure to look up at the impressive zodiac ceiling and spot the classic opal clock perched above the information booth. The Whispering Gallery is another photogenic spot within the terminal.
To truly immerse yourself in the throwback era of luxury train travel, sit down at one of the historic establishments.
The Campbell is a NYC institution. Formerly the station’s office, the space has been transformed into an ornate bar serving delicious (but pricey) cocktails.
For a meal with some history, try Grand Central Oyster Bar, which has been around as long as the terminal itself!
#6 Chrysler Building
MAP. The Chrysler Building is one of the Midtown Manhattan sights that many travelers skip. Still, with its rich history and magnificent architecture, we feel it’s worth an up-close look.
Built in 1930 for the Chrysler car corporation, the 77-story Art Deco skyscraper features a ‘crown’ of steel. (It’s not a crown of hub caps, which is a popular urban myth).
For 11 months it stood as the worlds tallest building, but was quickly surpassed by the 200 foot taller Empire State Building.
The Chrysler Building observation deck has been closed for decades, but fans of art and historic places should take a peek inside the lobby.
Look up at the Chrysler assembly line ceiling mural and take note of the Moroccan marble walls and elegant elevators.
There are persistent rumors of public spaces reopening soon, including restaurants, cafes and tourist experiences.
Now circle around to the intersection of 44th Street and 3rd Avenue (MAP) for the best exterior view. From this vantage point, you can clearly see the stunning spire and protruding gargoyles.
#7 St. Patrick’s Cathedral
MAP. St. Patrick’s Cathedral is the largest Neo-Gothic Catholic church in North America; it occupies an entire city block! Constructed between 1858 and 1878, it was built to replace Old St. Patrick’s in Little Italy.
After admiring the 330-foot-tall spires, large bronze doors and intricate exterior design, take a moment to step inside to see the interior.
Set your eyes on the grand high altar and take in the dazzling stained-glass windows; the Rose Window is not to be missed.
Gaze at the grandiose organ and pass by the 20-plus altars (note the altars of St. Louis and St. Michael are both Tiffany & Co designs).
#8 Fifth Avenue
MAP. The epicenter of NYC shopping, Fifth Avenue is one of the top Midtown places to see. Flagship brands and legendary department stores take up residence alongside posh 5-star hotels.
Fifth Avenue extends for more than 6 miles, but the most extravagant stores and boutique shops are located between 49th and 59th streets.
We recommend walking along this 10-block stretch to see the famous tenants – plus a few hidden gems.
Start at Saks Fifth Avenue, which sits on the south side of St. Patrick’s. The 10-story building has housed the department store since 1924 and features exceptional window displays.
Top retailers to see as you walk north on Fifth are Ferragamo, Prada, the Cartier Mansion, Bergdorf Goodman and the ultra-modern Apple Fifth Avenue Store.
If shopping is not your jam, there are still reasons to stroll along Fifth Avenue. Peer inside the lobbies of The St. Regis, The Peninsula and Aman hotels.
For as popular as the area is, there are still a few overlooked gems. Go east on 53rd to find Paley Park, a green oasis with a pretty water feature. Step inside St. Thomas, a magnificent Gothic church that is more than 100 years old.
After exploring Fifth Ave, circle back toward St. Patrick’s. Pass by the 45-foot-tall Atlas sculpture (which often appears in movies) then enter Rockefeller Center via the Channel Gardens.
#9 Rockefeller Center: Top of the Rock & Radio City Music Hall
MAP. Rockefeller Center is a collection of buildings which were designed and developed between 1930 and 1939 by the affluent Rockefeller family.
Listed as both a New York City Landmark and a National Historic Landmark, the Art Deco Rockefeller Center Complex is a top attraction on our Midtown Tour.
The most impressive entrance is via the Channel Gardens, which leads directly to the glittering statue of Prometheus in the Lower Plaza Fountain.
During the holiday season, this is where the classic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and ice-skating rink are located. Any time of year, the two following spots are worth seeking out.
30 Rockefeller Plaza
MAP. The soaring centerpiece of the complex, this 66-story skyscraper was the third-tallest in the world when it was completed in 1933. (Now it ranks number 65.)
Home to NBC Studios and the Rainbow Room, the Top of the Rock observation deck attracts the most tourists. In our opinion, it still offers the best viewpoint in NYC. If you want to pause to go have a look, buy tickets in advance!
Radio City Music Hall
MAP. Radio City Music Hall is the historic home of The Rockettes dance company. The entertainment venue – nicknamed “The Showplace of the Nation” – opened in 1932 featuring (at the time) the world’s largest auditorium.
In 1978, the building was designated a New York City Landmark. Today, the 7-story-high neon signs glow brightly and the theater is still used for various performances.
#10 Times Square
MAP. The last stop on our Midtown Manhattan Self-Guided Walking Tour is the legendary Times Square.
Monikered “The Center of the Universe,” Times Square is the bustling epicenter of the entertainment district in NYC.
It’s typically the busiest and most congested area of the city, so be alert and watch out for pickpockets.
Funny fact; Times Square is not a square at all, but two triangular pedestrian spaces created by the crisscrossing of 7th Avenue and Broadway!
It’s difficult not to get swept up in the commercialism of the area. Electronic billboards featuring advertisements light up the space – day and night. Brand name retailers and shops are designed to impress and lure you in.
Consider popping into the Hershey’s Chocolate World Store where you can indulge in a treat. Maybe even mingle with cartoon characters at the Disney Store or go on an immersive adventure at RiseNY.
Don’t miss taking in the view of One Times Square, the site of the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop. If you are looking for last-minute theater tickets, stop by the TKTS booth to see if you can score a deal!
Walking Tour of Midtown Manhattan Map
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our Midtown Manhattan walking map below. This Map provides directions to Midtown sights on our tour.
Travel Tips for Midtown Manhattan
We have highlighted some of the very best Midtown Manhattan things to do, but have some more advice to round out your NYC trip.
Where To Eat in Midtown
You have likely worked up an appetite from all the walking! We are sharing a few of the best Midtown Manhattan restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat.
Budget Eats
The Halal Guys: Utterly satisfying and incredibly affordable NYC street food. (Get the Beef Gyro Wrap with the famous White Sauce.)
Liberty Bagels: Our favorite Midtown bagel shop for freshly baked bagels and creative cream cheese flavors. (The Everything Bagel with Bacon Scallion Cream Cheese is divine!)
Iconic Institutions
Ellen’s Stardust Diner: A Midtown Manhattan tourist attraction that doubles as a restaurant, the Broadway-themed diner features entertaining singing waitstaff.
Sarge’s Delicatessen and Diner: A classic Jewish deli established in 1964 that serves celebrated Pastrami sandwiches.
Patsy’s Italian Restaurant: A favorite haunt of Frank Sinatra and other celebrities, the old-school restaurant makes a mean Spaghetti and Meatballs.
La Grande Boucherie: Classy and refined, this French bistro is a top pick for pre-theater dinner.
Afternoon Tea at The Plaza: A quintessential NYC experience, the finger sandwiches are served in the hotel’s swanky Palm Court.
More Midtown Manhattan Attractions
If you are ready to discover more after your Midtown walk, there are a few nearby sights that are fun to seek out.
The Museum of Modern Art
Housing a fascinating and impressive collection of contemporary works, the MoMA is a renowned institution. Featured artists include Warhol, Van Gogh, Picasso and more. It’s best to buy tickets ahead of time.
Roosevelt Island Tramway
An ariel cable car that connects Manhattan to Roosevelt Island, the tramway offers sensational scenic views of the spectacular NYC skyline. Plus, it costs the same as a ride on the subway and is included with a weekly Metro Card!
Central Park
An urban green space that sprawls for 843 acres, Central Park provides a refuge from the chaos of the city. Use our Central Park Walk to discover the greatest areas!
Manhattan’s West Side
You can find a slew of things to do on the west side of Manhattan along the Hudson River. Some of our favorite attractions are The Vessel, The Highline and Chelsea Market.
New York Midtown Manhattan Walking Tour Essentials
Shoes for Walking: For this tour, you will need a good pair of travel shoes.
Day Pack: A zippered travel day bag is a necessity for an NYC walking tour.
Travel Camera: We believe it’s best to use a real camera for your trip to NYC – like this DSLR Canon Rebel.
Battery Charger: Keeping your phone charged is a must! Use a portable charger for a midday boost.
More NYC Walking Tours and Trip Tips
Start planning your USA Trip! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more advice – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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