15 Best NYC Photo Spots for Your Instagram Feed

New York City is a photographer’s dream, offering a mix of iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and breathtaking skyline views. Whether you're an avid Instagrammer or just looking for the perfect vacation snapshots, NYC has no shortage of stunning backdrops. And there’s no better place to stay while capturing the magic than The Beacon Hotel NYC. We’re perfectly situated on the Upper West Side, and offer easy access to these must-visit locations.

Boost your Instagram game with these timeless NYC spots that will really make your feed stand out. Capture stunning shots, impress your followers, and keep them coming back for more with these picture-perfect locations!

Riverside Park

This park overlooking the Hudson River is a peaceful escape with tree-lined walkways, historic monuments, and stunning sunset views. It’s a fantastic spot for candid shots or scenic landscapes that showcase the beauty of the Upper West Side.

Corner of 91st Street & West End Avenue

A quiet yet picturesque location, this corner offers shutterbugs classic NYC brownstones, creating a quintessentially New York aesthetic. The elegant architecture and tree-lined streets make it a charming spot for portraits and street photography.

Brooklyn Bridge

No NYC photo tour is complete without capturing the grandeur of the Brooklyn Bridge. The pedestrian walkway on the bridge provides stunning skyline views, while the Manhattan Bridge’s famous blue arch frames a perfect shot from Dumbo’s Washington Street.

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMa)

Art lovers and Instagrammers alike flock to MoMA for its impressive contemporary art collections and stylish interiors. Whether you want to grab a snap of Van Gogh’s Starry Night or the museum’s contemporary interior design, you’ll find plenty of picture-perfect moments here.

Vessel at Hudson Yards

With its futuristic honeycomb design, The Vessel is a must-visit for architectural photography. Climb the spiraling staircases for unique perspectives and breathtaking shots of the Hudson Yards skyline.

Rockefeller Center

Twinkling holiday lights, panoramic city views, and the famous skating rink all lend Rockefeller Center year-round photo opportunities that embody the energy of NYC.

Statue of Liberty

A trip to NYC wouldn’t be complete without a snapshot of Lady Liberty. Whether you take a ferry to Liberty Island or capture her from Battery Park, a shot of this historic landmark is a must for your Instagram feed.

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt

NYC’s most instagrammable experience is here. The immersive observation deck here combines mirrored floors, glass skyboxes, and breathtaking panoramas for the ultimate Instagram moment. As the sun sets, the city lights turn the space into a dazzling spectacle, perfect for golden hour shots. Don’t forget to dress vibrantly to make your photos pop against the stunning mirrored backdrop!

Times Square

Bright lights, towering billboards, and the nonstop energy of Times Square make it one of NYC’s most photogenic locations. Visit at night to capture the full neon spectacle. Times Square is renowned for being Manhattan’s most festive location all year-round.

Fulton Street

Located in Lower Manhattan, Fulton Street combines historic charm with modern city vibes. With cobblestone streets and views of One World Trade Center, it’s an Instagram-worthy mix of old and new NYC.

The Flatiron Building

As one of the most unique buildings in the world, Flatiron is an architectural marvel and a must-capture for any visitor. Stand at Madison Square Park for the best angle of this angular beauty and go live on your Instagram. A must-visit for social-media enthusiasts.

Empire State Building

The breathtaking 360-degree views from the 86th and 102nd floors provide stunning backdrops of the NYC skyline here — including the Chrysler Building, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty. Whether you capture golden hour hues, sparkling city lights, or a dramatic cloudy sky, every shot from here is insta-worthy. The building’s Art Deco architecture also makes for stylish close-up shots. Visit early in the morning or late at night to avoid crowds and get that perfect, uninterrupted Instagram moment.

Central Park

From Bow Bridge to The Mall and Bethesda Terrace, Central Park is a haven for photographers. Whether it’s fall foliage, winter snow, or summer picnics, the park offers endless seasonal beauty.

Top of the Rock

Top of the Rock offers breathtaking panoramic views of New York City, making it a prime Instagram spot. The elevated vantage point provides unique perspectives of Manhattan's skyline, with the opportunity to capture gorgeous sunsets and the dazzling city lights at night. Whether day or night, it's a must-visit for any NYC Instagram enthusiast.

The Edge

The Edge offers breathtaking, unobstructed views of the Manhattan skyline perched 100 stories high in Hudson Yards. Its glass floor and angled walls create dramatic photo opportunities, making it a must-visit for Instagrammers seeking the perfect cityscape shot, especially during stunning sunsets.

Why Stay at The Beacon Hotel NYC?

Located on the Upper West Side, The Beacon Hotel NYC is the perfect home base for exploring and photographing the city’s best snapshot spots. With our spacious rooms, breathtaking skyline views, and easy access to subways and major instagram-worthy locations, it offers both comfort and convenience. After a long day of being on top of your social-media game, return to a cozy retreat in one of NYC’s most charming neighborhoods.

Book your stay at The Beacon Hotel NYC, and start capturing the magic of New York City!