New York City, often called “The Big Apple,” is a vibrant metropolis known for its towering skyscrapers, bustling streets, and rich cultural diversity. With a population of over 8 million, NYC is the largest city in the United States and a global hub for finance, fashion, art, and entertainment. From the iconic Statue of Liberty to the bright lights of Times Square, every corner of the city tells a unique story. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a first-time visitor, there’s always something fascinating to discover about this dynamic city that never sleeps.
9 New York City Facts
1. Oysters have a long history as a favorite food in New York City. (Source)
Oysters were so popular among New Yorkers in the 19th century that their shells were used to pave Pearl Street, and their lime was used in the masonry of Trinity Church. That’s a lot of oysters!
2. New York City has the highest population in the United States. (Source)
There are 8.5 million residents in the city, making it the largest city in the country. It’s home to Ellis Island, the entry point for 12 million immigrants moving to America.
3. New York City is one of the hardest places to move to. (Source)
Many factors converge to make a move difficult within the city. The high population density makes competition for available real estate fierce. Heavy traffic and old buildings with narrow hallways don’t help either.
4. Central Park is the most filmed location in the world. (Source)
This scenic location has been featured in hundreds of movies and TV series. One of the first films recorded there was a short version of Romeo and Juliet in 1908. Tourists love to come to pose at the bridges, monuments, and landscapes featured in their favorite movies.
5. The Statue of Liberty is 93 meters tall. (Source)
The statue was a gift from France in 1886 and weighs 204 metric tons. It had to be shipped in 350 pieces. It greeted millions of immigrants to Ellis Island.
6. New York City was the first capital of the United States. (Source)
George Washington took his presidential oath in New York’s City Hall. The capital was later moved to Pennsylvania, before finally settling in Washington, D.C. in 1800.
7. New York City used to be called New Amsterdam. (Source)
The area was founded by Dutch settlers in the 1600s, who established fur-trading posts there. The British took over the settlement in 1664 and renamed it after the Duke of York. You can still find Dutch influence throughout the city too. Harlem is named after the Dutch Haarlem.
8. New York City consists of five boroughs, which are also counties. (Source)
The five boroughs are Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island. The most famous tourist attractions are generally located in Manhattan, though each borough has its own culture and claim to fame.
9. The “Big Apple” nickname referred to horse racing. (Source)
The term “Big Apple” was in a local newspaper’s horse racing column and it referred to the money prize at important races.
Featured image photo credit: Federico Abis
