The Most Famous Roads in New York City

New York City is a world-famous destination with some of the most interesting streets to drive on. Thanks to the long, straight street design, you can see and get a feel of the city. With long sight lines and so much to do in NYC, there is every reason to visit, even if you’re driving.

The Most Famous Roads in New York City

For those looking for a different experience, consider day tours from New York to Washington DC to explore another iconic city nearby.. Though these streets are infamous, they can be dangerous. While they are absolutely a top highlight for anyone traveling to NYC, do take care. The roads are busy and chaotic, and there is a lot of pedestrian traffic. Take extra precautions and drive defensively so that you can soak in the experience of New York City.

5th Avenue

5th Avenue is certainly one of the most famous - and busiest - streets in NYC. It’s been nicknamed Millionaire’s Row, though the wealth that you can find on this street far exceeds a single million today. It is here where you can find high-end shopping, the Rockefeller Center, and even some famous museums and galleries like the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum and Frick Collection. Drive down, walk down, or take a tour; with so many things to see and do on this street, you won’t be disappointed.

Broadway

The street that leads you to Times Square is one of the most iconic in all of the city. It’s loud, it’s bright, and it is going to be busy. As it cuts through the commercial hub and is such a large tourist destination, you’ll want to drive carefully here and keep an eye on your blind spots for any jaywalking pedestrians.

Park Avenue

If you want a stunning drive, go down Park Avenue. This drive takes you right along past some of NYC’s top destinations like the Empire State Building or the Chrysler Building and also runs directly to the Grand Central Terminal.

Washington Street

For the famous view of the Manhattan Bridge in DUMBO, go to Washington Street. Do be aware, however, that this is not a main street and will be filled with tourists and photographers alike. As such, you would be better off parking nearby and then going through this area on foot.

St. Mark’s Place

If you want to drive down a fun and quirky neighborhood, there is no better street to choose than St. Mark’s Place. It was once the epicenter of NYC’s counter-culture movement. Think punks, hippies, and poets. The street may be short, but it is a definite highlight in the East Village. For the best experience, of course, you’ll want to walk rather than drive.

FDR Drive

Get a great view of the city by driving along FDR Drive or the Franklin D. Roosevelt East River Drive. It is one of the few highways in Manhattan, and on this side of the island, you’ll get some great views of Brooklyn. This road is 9.68 miles long and will take you up along Manhattan until you reach the Robert F. Kennedy Bridge.
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