Get Great Photos of New York City even on Cold Days!

I recently returned from New York City, where my iPhone told me that it was 10 degrees outside, but it actually would feel like it was 5 degrees.

As a longtime Californian who grew up in New York City a long time ago, trust me, this was a shock to the system.

But as I was determined to film a new episode of PhotowalksTV while I was in New York, I soldiered on.

And I had a game plan: I would showcase some of the best of NY to viewers by stepping inside. New York happens to have some of the coolest, historical buildings going back to the early 20th century, so visiting them was a joy. We used the CityPASS, which covered of our stops on one admission.

Join me on this virtual photo walk through some of the best indoor photography spots in NYC, all shot on a smartphone, the iPhone 16 Pro.

1. The New York Public Library – A Grand Historic Landmark

Our first stop is the iconic New York Public Library’s main branch at 42nd Street and 5th Avenue, which is technically called the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building. Opened in 1911, this architectural masterpiece was the largest marble building of the 20th century. Guarded by the famous marble lions, Patience and Fortitude, the library’s interiors are just as impressive. The Rose Main Reading Room, with its high ceilings, massive windows, and elegant tables, provides a picture-perfect setting. Be sure to capture the classic New York-style windows for a timeless shot. Website.

2. Grand Central Terminal – Timeless Elegance

Next, we head to Grand Central Terminal, one of the most famous train stations in the world. The grandeur of this landmark is unparalleled, from its celestial ceiling to the iconic four-faced clock in the main concourse. For the best shot, try the elevated platform overlooking the terminal—though be prepared to wait in line for this popular photo spot! (There are two vantage points–one looks out from an Apple Store in its classiest location.) A great photography tip: use your phone’s timer for perfectly framed selfies without needing to press the button manually. Address: 89 E. 42nd Street.

3. St. Patrick’s Cathedral – A Touch of European Grandeur

A short walk away on Fifth Avenue, between 50th and 51st Streets, St. Patrick’s Cathedral offers breathtaking Neo-Gothic architecture that rivals the grand churches of Europe. But there’s a huge difference: the church is directly in the middle of the swankiest shopping district in New York, right on 5th Avenue. Website.

4. Top of the Rock – Skyline Views from Indoors

For great panoramic views of New York City, Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center has it, direct from the observation decks at 67th, 69th, and 70th floors at 30 Rockefeller Plaza. While the outdoor decks provide the clearest shots, you can also capture amazing views by pressing your smartphone against the glass inside on the 67th floor to minimize reflections. If you can brave the cold, the uppermost level has no windows, offering an unobstructed view of the entire city, including Central Park, the Empire State Building, and beyond, As the sun sets, Top of the Rock becomes an entirely different experience. The twinkling lights of the skyline create an unforgettable scene, perfect for stunning nighttime photography. Using the iPhone’s time-lapse mode, I was able to capture mesmerizing footage of the city lights in motion. For the best results, mount your phone on a selfie stick with a built-in tripod to keep the camera steady. Website

5. The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) – A Warm Cultural Retreat

Getting great photos from inside MoMA didn’t make our top ten list, but for an artistic indoor experience, MoMA is directly in the heart of downtown, on the CityPASS and a fun visit. Home to over 200,000 pieces from legendary artists like Van Gogh and Warhol, this museum is a great place to stay warm while indulging in creativity.

6. A Walk Through Time at the Natural History Museum

Located on Manhattan’s Upper West Side on 79th and Columbus, the American Museum of Natural History, founded in 1869, is home to exhibits spanning prehistoric times to modern-day wonders. It’s best known for the Hayden Planetarium and its life-sized animal displays.

One of the main attractions is the towering Barosaurus skeleton in the Theodore Roosevelt Rotunda. Standing over 70 feet tall, this dinosaur makes for an epic subject. The best way to capture it? A wide-angle shot to highlight its full grandeur.

Another highlight is the butterfly exhibit, a perfect opportunity for macro photography. Modern smartphones excel in this setting—just get up close and let the camera focus on the intricate details of these delicate creatures.

7. From History to Culinary Tradition: Katz’s Deli

After warming up at the museum, it was time to jump on the subway and go down to the Lower East Side to experience one of New York’s most historic dining spots: Katz’s Delicatessen. Established in 1898, Katz’s is famous for its overstuffed pastrami sandwiches and its role in the classic film When Harry Met Sally.

Upon entering, you receive a ticket and head to the appropriate line—one for sandwiches, another for drinks. For photographers, the best action happens behind the counter, where the “cutters” expertly slice pastrami and corned beef. Tight shots of these masters at work make for compelling storytelling images.

One thing that stands out? The prices. A pastrami sandwich in 2025 costs $29, and the famous Reuben goes for $30. Fortunately, sharing is an option, and the experience is worth every penny.

8. Sailing Toward Lady Liberty

With our stomachs full, we took a brisk walk through the Lower East Side toward Pier 16 for a Circle Line cruise to the Statue of Liberty. The boat ride offered spectacular skyline views, but there was one challenge—dirty windows. I had hoped to photograph the Statue through the window and stay warm inside. However, that wasn’t to be. For crisp, clear shots, stepping outside was necessary, despite the biting cold.

Timing is everything when photographing the Statue of Liberty. Many visitors rush to take pictures too soon, but the best shots come when the sun is positioned to illuminate her face and torch. As we sailed around, the lighting shifted, revealing the statue’s green patina in its full glory.

9. Final Shots: New York Skyline at Dusk

Beyond Lady Liberty, the return journey featured breathtaking views of Manhattan’s skyline. The golden-hour light reflecting off the skyscrapers provided the perfect ending to our photo adventure.

New York City in winter may be cold, but with the right locations and techniques, you can capture stunning images while staying warm. Whether inside a historic museum or braving the chilly air for a once-in-a-lifetime shot, the city never ceases to amaze.