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The Perfect 4 Days In New York City Itinerary For Your First Visit

by Mark and Kristen Morgan

Published: May 20, 2021

Updated: August 15, 2024

New York City is one of our favorite places on the planet. We love its iconic attractions, diverse neighborhoods and perpetual feel good buzz. But we also know that planning to visit for the very first time can be incredibly overwhelming. How many days do you need? What should you prioritize? And how do you string together an efficient NYC itinerary? In this guide we show you the best way to plan an unforgettable 4 days in New York City itinerary for a first visit, based on our extensive experiences in the Big Apple. We condense the very best of NYC into 4 action packed days, so simply follow the route and you won’t miss a thing.

Our Experience

So what do we know about NYC and why should you trust us to help with planning your itinerary?

Well, we haven’t just visited NYC once or twice, we’ve been more times than we can count. We often meet friends or family from England there and act as their personal tour guides. And to really put an expertise cherry on the top, we even spent a few months living there in early 2021. So you can rest assured we know the city inside and out as tourists, and we know where to take people when they visit. We’ve even published a popular travel guidebook for New York City which you can see in our store. For us, an unforgettable first time NYC itinerary should involve plenty of walking, seeing lots of famous attractions and landmarks, eating classic New York food like bagels and pizzas, and being out from dawn to dark. This is how you truly get to experience the city, and it’s why our itinerary is jam packed with everything you could want to do. Read more about us .

Is 4 Days In NYC Enough?

You might be wondering if 4 days is enough time to visit New York City? Could do it in 3 days or maybe you should extend to 5 days?

Here’s why we think 4 days in NYC is the magic number:

3 days : You can see and do a lot with 3 days in New York if you’re willing to pack your schedule full of attractions, walking, early mornings and late nights. You’d keep costs down, but you’d have to compromise on attractions or neighborhoods and you’d definitely lose flexibility. It’s a good option if you’re visiting on a budget, otherwise stay the extra day.

4 days : We think 4 days is easily enough time to get ticks on your bucket list and see everything without overdoing it. You’d benefit from the perfect balance between total expenses, time you’d need to take off work, how much you’d be able to see and keeping up a reasonable pace.

5 days : – Obviously, staying in NYC for an extra day won’t hurt if you have the time and money spare. You’d be able to slow things down even more or add in a few extra attractions. But it would start getting very expensive and you’d need more time off work. We’re not sure if you really need that fifth day once you factor in exactly what you’d use it for and how much extra it would cost.

About Our Itinerary

We’re about to walk you through how we would spend 4 days in NYC if it were our first time based on all we know now. But first we want to explain a few things so the itinerary makes more sense:

• The areas around Times Square and Central Midtown are most popular for first time visitors to book hotels. So we’ll begin and end each day in the Midtown area.
• We cover 4 full days in New York, so ideally you’d arrive the evening before day 1 and leave the morning after day 4 for a total of 6 nights in a hotel.
• But if you’ll be arriving early in the morning you could potentially pick up day 1, or if you’ll be leaving on a late flight you could skip the last few things on day 4.
• Use our itinerary as a reference so you can see how to string attractions and neighborhoods together. But remember, you don’t have to follow it exactly.
• We’re including what we think is an achievable amount of things to do each day, but you can simply cut one or two attractions if it’s too much.
• We strongly advise you to book all attractions and any required time slots in advance before you visit. You have a lot to get through in 4 days, so there’s not a lot of room for waiting in lines or waiting for a later time slot.

Finally and most importantly, there is no one-size-fits-all itinerary for New York City. We’re going heavier on attractions because it’s NYC, but you might prefer to relax in cafes or bar hop around trendy neighborhoods instead. Both are excellent ways to see the city, so consider exactly how you want to spend your time.

Okay, let’s begin!

Day 1: Central Park + Times Square

Kick things off the right way with a delicious NYC bagel and coffee. Our two favorites in Midtown are Liberty Bagels and Best Bagel & Coffee , both of which are on 35th Street between 7th and 8th Avenues. Walk up 7th Avenue to Central Park or take Yellow subway line from 34 St-Herald Sq to 5 Av-59 St. We advise walking so you can see Times Square in the daylight.

Central Park is one of our favorite parts of NYC because it’s filled with cherry blossoms in spring, lush green leaves in summer, stunning fall foliage colors in autumn and brilliant white snow in winter. Here’s how to walk around Central Park most efficiently:

• Bethesda Terrace
• Bow Bridge (don’t cross)
• Strawberry Fields
• Belvedere Castle

Exit Central Park onto 5th Avenue and you’ll be at The Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET). The MET is an outstanding museum and we highly recommend you spend the rest of the morning inside. If you’re not interested, go to the American Museum of Natural History on the opposite side of Central Park instead.

READ : The museums you can’t miss in NYC

After The MET walk back down 5th Avenue and pass by The Plaza (hotel from Home Alone 2). Continue for another minute and you’ll begin walking down the world’s most expensive shopping street: Upper Fifth Avenue. You have lots of options here, including the Museum of Modern Art which jumps way ahead in time from The MET. Alternatively, you could splurge on a luxury afternoon tea at The Whitby . We thought it was fantastic and highly recommend it.

Next, we would go to Grand Central Terminal. It’s a bit of an inconvenient walk, especially because the route goes back up Fifth afterwards. You can skip this part, but we think seeing Grand Central is worth the extra effort. Enter via 42nd Street, see if there’s any temporary exhibits in Vanderbilt Hall, watch the chaos unfold in the main terminal and go downstairs to whisper through the walls. You’ll know what that means when you get there!

Head back up to see Saks Fifth Avenue department store. Next, walk through The Channel Gardens to Rockefeller Center. Get on 50th Street and head west so you can enter Top of the Rock . We think Top of the Rock is the best observation NYC deck at sunset because you can see Central Park and all of Manhattan glowing under soft light. Go to the top floor and enjoy the clear views with no perspex windows.

It’ll be dark by the time you exit, so everything will be lit up. Don’t miss Radio City, St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Atlas for fun night photos. Next, walk back through Times Square to see it in all it’s glory. Sit on the red steps and watch the carnage unfold for a few minutes. Then finish with cocktails overlooking the Empire State Building at Refinery Rooftop on 39th Street and 6th Ave (book in advance).

Note : Instead of Top of the Rock, you could alternatively go up to Summit One Vanderbilt after Grand Central. It’s popular with Instagram and TikTok because it has mirrored rooms.

Need help planning your visit to NYC?

Our popular New York City travel guidebook will help you with planning every aspect of your trip, including airport links, the subway, top attractions, itinerary ideas, restaurants, hotels and map!

Day 2: Midtown + Chelsea

Today you’ll get stuck into the meat of south Midtown Manhattan with a nice and easy square shaped loop, which is best achieved by walking. Grab breakfast, then start by going up the Empire State Building as soon as it opens to see the NYC skyline in daylight. There are 50 sunrise tickets per day for New York’s most iconic building, but they’re far more expensive so you might prefer the general entry price.

Take Broadway through Koreatown and Nomad so you can see the uniquely shaped Flatiron Building. Then continue down to Union Square which has a bustling farmers market on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Continue down Broadway and take a look around Strand Book Store , which is one of the most extensive bookstores we’ve ever seen.

Walk down to Washington Square Park and continue into West Village. One of our favorite things to do in NYC is walk through vibrant neighborhoods like Greenwich Village, so take your time wandering the residential streets here. Stop in somewhere like Bleecker Street for a slice of pizza and a beer, but leave room for more and head northwest to Chelsea Market where you’ll find independent stores and a whole host of excellent eateries.

Head back down slightly into the Meatpacking District to pick up the southern end of The High Line on the corner of Gansevoort and Washington. Climb the steps and walk north on the raised pedestrian walkway, stopping to look at skybridges and street views along the way. You’ll know when you reach Hudson Yards because you’ll stumble across the enormous copper-colored Vessel .

After walking around Vessel and Shed next to it, go inside the shopping mall at Hudson Yards. It reminds us of those super malls you see in Dubai and Singapore with its pristine finish and upscale feel, just on a much smaller scale. On the 4th floor you’ll find the entrance to Edge. We’ve been up to the Edge observation deck twice for sunset and we absolutely love the views, so definitely consider adding it into your NYC itinerary.

When you’ve seen enough, walk up 34th Street beyond Penn Station and Madison Square Garden until you reach Macy’s , which is one of the world’s most famous department stores. Take a quick look around, then if you have any energy left we highly recommend you go to 230 Fifth rooftop bar on 27th Street and 5th Avenue. Yes, it’s more walking but it’s a lively bar with amazing views of the Empire State Building. You don’t need to reserve, but drinks are pricey.

Day 3: Lower Manhattan + SoHo

Grab a hearty breakfast and lots of coffee for another big day. Start by hopping on a red line subway train from Times Square 42 St to South Ferry. Walk into Battery Park, find Castle Clinton and head into the white canvas tent behind to board a ferry to the Statue of Liberty . You must book your ferry ticket and the earliest time slot well in advance. Also, arrive well before your time slot to get through security.

Spend the morning learning about the Statue of Liberty, walking around Liberty Island and exploring the fantastic Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration . We think both are definitely worth visiting on a first trip to New York, but they do take up a big chunk of time so consider if you really want to do this part.

There’s lots of things to do in Lower Manhattan so it’s time to explore the maze-like streets of the Financial District. Start with Stone Street, Broad Street and William Street before reaching Wall Street. Check out Federal Hall, NYSE, Fearless Girl, and Trinity Church. You might even want to take this popular walking tour of Wall Street. If you plan to take a helicopter tour over NYC , now’s the time because they leave from Pier 6. We did it and loved it, but they’re not cheap.

It’s likely you’re not doing a chopper tour, so continue straight to Oculus , which is one of our favorite structures in New York. It looks like a bright white winged dove from the outside and it opens into a vast cavernous hall inside. You could go up to One World Observatory but it’ll be getting a bit later in the day so we think you should instead prioritize the incredible 9/11 Museum and Memorial . Book your tickets in advance for a late afternoon slot so you can easily make it after Statue of Liberty.

After 9/11 you might need a minute. They’ve done a great job with the museum but it’s a harrowing few hours. Head north through Tribeca on W Broadway until you reach the Ghostbusters Headquarters. Take White Street past The Roxy Hotel, left on Church Street and cross Canal Street to Greene Street. We really like the cobbled Greene Street in SoHo with its galleries and high end shops.

Spend some time walking around SoHo and consider trying a Cronut at Dominique Ansel Bakery if you still have time. They’re delicious but there might be a long line. If you can’t find anywhere to eat dinner in SoHo, head east on Prince Street towards Little Italy where you’ll find a bunch of great places to eat and drink. And if all else fails, walk east to Katz’s Delicatessen for an amazing pastrami sandwich. Eventually, head back to your Midtown hotel on the yellow line from Prince Street.

Day 4: Brooklyn + Williamsburg

You’ve seen Upper, Midtown and Lower Manhattan. So your last day should be spent over the East River in Brooklyn. One day for Brooklyn is a disservice, but you only have 4 days and it’s your first time in NYC so you have to prioritize Manhattan. Start by taking the blue line subway from 42 St-Port Authority or Penn Station all the way to High St. Head north on Washington Street and you’ll arrive at the Manhattan Bridge View in Dumbo.

This viewpoint is one of our favorite photo spots in NYC and we tried 3 sunrises here without ever having it to ourselves. During the day it’s even busier, so expect to see a lot of people doing photo shoots. Walk around to Pebble Beach and Jane’s Carousel for awesome Brooklyn Bridge Views, then go to the Time Out Market rooftop to grab food and drinks. There’s another great bridge view from the roof too.

Note : One of the best sunrises in NYC is from Pier 17 overlooking Brooklyn Bridge at sunrise . But it means a very early start. If you do it, walk over the Brooklyn Bridge to the Manhattan Bridge View instead and pick up the itinerary.

You could spend your afternoon walking around Downtown Brooklyn, visiting the NY Transit Museum , relaxing in Prospect Park or eating key lime pie with Statue of Liberty views in Red Hook. They’re all great options, but we recommend you go to the trendy neighborhood of Williamsburg instead. Take the cheap ferry from Dumbo to North Williamsburg.

If it works out to be a Saturday, you can’t miss Smorgasburg Williamsburg just as you get off the ferry. Otherwise head for Domino Park and it’s awesome Midtown Manhattan skyline views. If the weather is nice this place will be packed. Next, take a walk down Berry Street or Bedford Ave and treat yourself to a spot of bar hopping. We really like the chilled beer and food scene in Williamsburg. If you’re interested, you can book a tour of Brooklyn Brewery . Mark did it with a friend from England and it was excellent.

Note : If pubs and beer aren’t your thing, you could take a subway to Jefferson Street to see street art known as the Bushwick Collective . Or you could walk along 2nd Street to one of the best pizza places in New York called L’Industry Pizza.

When you’re done in Williamsburg, hop back on the ferry to Dumbo. You’ll arrive into Brooklyn Bridge Park , which has sensational views over the Lower Manhattan skyline. Walk around to Old Pier 1 for a unique photo opportunity, then head to the corner of Prospect and Washington to climb the steps leading onto Brooklyn Bridge.

It’s around 10 minutes walk to reach the main part of the bridge. Make sure you’re at least here by the time the sun begins to set, if not a little further. Now, you’re going to walk the Brooklyn Bridge at sunset . We’ve done it four times and it never gets old. The pedestrian walkway will be packed full but it’s be a great atmosphere, and what a way to end your 4 days in New York City.

Note : Don’t forget you can download this itinerary along with everything else you need to know about planning your first trip to New York in our helpful NYC digital ebook .

NYC Itinerary Planning Tips

Here are our top tips to remember for planning and when you arrive:

• Plan to walk as much as you can
• Pack comfortable shoes with cushioning
• Get a metro card to use on the subway
• Top the metro card up in small increments
• Book attractions and time slots in advance
• Book restaurants and rooftop bars in advance
• Plan to spend very little time at your hotel
• Carry snacks and water in a day pack
• Be specific about what you want to see
• Book any sporting events in advance

Lastly, we recommend you read our New York attractions pass comparison to see if any of the 4 passes can save you money based on what you want to see. We use them every time we visit a major city to bundle attractions and save a few dollars in the process, which is better spent on food or drinks.

We’ve personally used each of the passes available. Our favorite is Sightseeing Pass and we’ve teamed up with them to offer our readers an exclusive discount on all Sightseeing Passes. Clicking the link automatically applies 5% off for adults and 10% off for children, and you won’t find this anywhere else. You can then choose between day pass or attraction pass, with the discount already in place.

More From New York City

• Free and cheap things to do in NYC
• Best places to stay in NYC
• Famous NYC photo spots
• Visiting New York in winter
• Museums you can’t miss in NYC
• NYC observation decks compared

Want more NYC information? Head over to our New York City Travel Guide for help with planning your first visit.

We hope our 4 days in NYC itinerary helps with planning your trip!

Please let us know if you have any questions in the comments below.

Happy Travels ,

Mark and Kristen

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All Rights Reserved © Where Are Those Morgans, LLC. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, maps, graphics, etc.) in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

Mark and Kristen Morgan are travel, hiking and photography experts. Over the last 6 years traveling full time, they have explored more than 40 countries and 30 US states.

Where Are Those Morgans has been featured in USA Today, Gestalten, Get Your Guide, CityPASS and Condé Nast Traveler along with various other publications. Read more about us .

8 thoughts on “The Perfect 4 Days In New York City Itinerary For Your First Visit”

Incredible!!! Thanks so much for this wonderful guide. It has really helped me.

Hi Elaine, glad to hear it! Let us know if you have any questions about your trip 🙂

Taking my teenage son during spring vacay and this was super helpful! thank you

You’re very welcome, Karine. We hope you have a fantastic time in NYC!

This is great!! How do we incorporate a broadway play or 2?

Hi Bonnie, if you’re planning to squeeze in a few broadway shows we would suggest doing one or two of the observation decks during the day instead of at night so you can do broadway on an evening instead. It might be worth considering staying close to Times Square so you don’t have to go far after your shows at night. We’d also recommend booking your tickets in advance, we are just leaving a few days in NYC and it is back to being extremely busy! Have a great time!

WOW. This was impressive. Your valuable effort and time does not go unnoticed with this post.

Thank you very much, Levi, we appreciate you taking the time to let us know you found our itinerary helpful. Have a great trip to NYC!

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The 42 Best Things to Do in New York City

Our selection of the best things to do in New York City has been compiled over several years, with the help of editors and contributors past and present. We all call this place home, or did at one point, and put in the time living like tourists to figure out just how exactly to make the most of its myriad pleasures. What is the best way to see the Statue of Liberty? Where can one get the most “New York” meal, whatever that means to you? How do you get off the beaten path to avoid ceaseless crowds and discover something nobody else is talking about? We've got the answers to all of these questions and more, with recommendations spanning all five boroughs. Read on for the best things to do in New York City.

Read our complete New York City travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Andrea Whittle.

Balthazar Arrow

Keith McNally's flagship restaurant—this is also the master behind such atmospheric Manhattan mainstays as Pastis, the Odeon, Minetta Tavern, and Morandi, each also worth a visit if I may suggest a “Keith McNally crawl”—is a high-ceilinged, brasserie-inspired scene to end all scenes. Martinis are omnipresent at the bar and in deep red-leather booths. So are steak frites smothered in peppercorn sauce. But the asset that's fabulous with the greatest diversity are the patrons—like if that New York magazine cover all convened to share a meal. Alison Roman once told Interview : “The food is so bad, it’s too expensive, I love going there.” She's being facetious for comedic effect—the food is just fine, but it is true that you're really going there to go there. With your expectations duly measured, enjoy an uncomplicated onion soup gratine and some yummy, well-buttered escargot for starters before moving on to the steak frites main event. For dessert, there's nowhere worth going more than the perfect profiteroles, poured with warm chocolate sauce tableside.

Arthur Avenue

Almost every awning along the stretch of The Bronx's Arthur Avenue between D'Auria-Murphy Triangle and Ciccarone Park marks an Italian name possessing something—a pizzeria, a restaurant, a bakery. But just because it's all Italian, all the time along these two blocks doesn't mean all aren't welcome to come and patronize these establishments. It's some of the absolute best Italian food in New York City lined up for your convenience, bustling with life and good eats. Executive editor Erin Florio's relatives still do their Sunday shopping in the market, which she describes as "dusty but great." Poking around and picking a few things up there is really where it's at—bright seasonal produce, sausages of all stripes dangling from the ceiling, fresh-baked bread and vinegar-y imports from the old country line the walls in cans and jars. It's true one-stop shopping.

Film Forum Arrow

This is the last independent, nonprofit cinema in New York City. Little has changed about this humble, unpretentious theater since it first opened in 1970 as a screening space for independent films—there's the big marquee outside, lighting up an otherwise quiet stretch of West Houston; a ticket booth with microphone and glass partition; and a red carpet underfoot. It's retro without feeling dated, a warm place out of time. Behind the concessions counter, by the way, are some very nice people selling some very good espresso and baked goods (try the cakes carrot and orange bundt) in addition to regular sodas and candies. From new and obscure cinema made outside the US to a dazzling assortment of global classics that has most recently included Midnight Cowboy and Le Samourai , you can rest assured that every last thing on the marquee is worth a few hours of your time.

Central Park Arrow

To get that Nora Ephron New York experience, you have no choice but to take a stroll through Central Park while in the city. As you step off the crowded sidewalks of 59th Street into a mass of green, you’ll hardly realize what lies before you: 693 acres of man-made gardens, meadows, forests, and  hillsides. If you ambled down every one of Central Park’s pathways, you would walk 58 miles. Along the way, you pass sculptures, bridges, and arches, plus 21 playgrounds, a winter ice-skating rink, even a zoo . But you’d hardly notice the four major crosstown thoroughfares, which cleverly disappear into foliage-covered tunnels. Map your park route to stop at classic Central Park landmarks, like the Bethesda Fountain, Bow Bridge, Belvedere Castle, and the Strawberry Fields John Lennon Memorial.

Chinatown Arrow

 Chinatown is one of the neighborhoods that makes lower Manhattan vibrant and unforgettable. After surfacing from the steps of the Canal Street subway station onto the sidewalk, meandering past thick crowds, neon light shops, and vendors peddling fake designer bags, you’ll find yourself in the narrow streets of Chinatown, where there are bright heaps of produce, succulent ducks hanging in windows, and restaurants old and new. Touching Tribeca, SoHo, Little Italy, and the Lower East Side, Chinatown has a rich history and began being populated by Chinese immigrants as early as the 1850s. You can visit in whichever way makes sense for you. Whether you spend an hour devouring a box of roast pork or duck from street-style Wah Fung No. 1 before you have to proceed elsewhere, or you spend half a day shopping for produce, dining out, and paying a visit to the Museum of Chinese in America , everyone will gain something from a visit to Chinatown.

Brooklyn Bridge Arrow

When the Brooklyn Bridge was constructed in 1883—extending 1,595 feet across the East River, connecting lower Manhattan to Brooklyn Heights—it was the longest suspension bridge in the world. Now, it’s a historic staple of the New York City skyline, transporting commuter car traffic underneath and touristic foot traffic above . Standing before arches and rectangles with city skyscrapers rising in the distance, will at once inspire a sense of grandiosity and slightness.

The Noguchi Museum Arrow

This intimate, meditative museum in Long Island City was conceived and built by Isamu Noguchi himself. Here, his mostly abstract sculptures and often-copied paper lamps are displayed across two levels of exhibition space and throughout a quiet, ivy-covered walled garden. Even if you're not familiar with Noguchi's work, you've probably come across one of his Akari light sculptures—geometric or globular lamps made of washi paper and bamboo that glow softly from within—which have become something of a modern design trope since he started designing them in the early 1950s.

Yankee Stadium Arrow

A spring or summer day spent cheering at an NYC ballpark is a classic activity for a reason. Located in the Bronx, Yankee Stadium is the home field of New York’s 27-time World Champions. It’s a half-hour subway ride from Penn Station and approximately a 20-minute subway ride from Grand Central Terminal, making it easily accessible from Manhattan. It replaced the 1923 original in 2009 and cost $1.5 billion to build, making it one of the world’s most expensive stadiums. It seats 50,287 fans. New York Yankees games, obviously, are the main event here, but you can also attend concerts, college football, and soccer matches.

Jewish Brooklyn: Tours of Hasidic Brooklyn Arrow

The pockets of Brooklyn inhabited predominately by the Hasidic are not often explored on the average Big Apple itinerary. There are two guided tours you can take of Hasidic Brooklyn: Frieda Vizel's of conservative Williamsburg and the Friedman family's of the slightly-more-flexible Crown Heights (none yet open us to the cosmopolitan Borough Park.) The former rendezvouses in the bus plaza just below the Williamsburg Bridge, the latter around the dining room table of a family home. From there, you're off to the races learning from people who know and love their subject deeply. You'll also sample kosher sweets and stop at the deli, dip into a toy store or wigmaker, and meet quite a few friendly faces. Both are excellent ways to immerse yourself, for a few hours, in the culture of some of Brooklyn’s more enigmatic inhabitants.

The Cathedral of St. John the Divine Arrow

The Cathedral of St. John the Divine on 112th and Amsterdam in Upper Manhattan’s Morningside Heights is the largest cathedral in the world and the sixth-largest church by area. Hundreds of thousands of visitors walk through these doors annually for a reason. The cathedral itself—and its remarkable Gothic architecture, story-telling stained glass windows, and 17th century tapestries—is already worth visiting. But there is artwork that is especially meaningful to New York City here as well, including Keith Haring's white gold and bronze altarpiece and a 9/11 memorial sculpture by Meredith Bergmann, which holds debris of the towers in it. The cathedral holds daily and Sunday worship services, which welcome all. There is no charge to pray, meditate, or contemplate in the cathedral. Visitors who show for sightseeing purposes can enter for $15 admission. Special tours are offered depending on the day of the week.

Staten Island Ferry

One of the first things associate editor Hannah Towey did when she moved to New York City was board the (free! bright orange!) Staten Island Ferry by Battery Park at Manhattan's bottom, watch the sunset over the water on her way to that far-flung borough, and then turn around and get right back on for the return to Manhattan. Forget the outrageously expensive Statue of Liberty cruises and the discomfort of the official ferry (although Ellis Island, unfortunately the next stop on the same trip, is worth a visit)—here you see plenty of Lady Liberty, Governor's Island, and the skyline without opening your purse. It's a dreamy 25 minutes each way, passed easily watching the myriad terns dip into the ship's wake. This is not to say you shouldn't spend a few hours on Staten Island if you have the time—the Botanical Garden is as gorgeous as it is free, and the food is impeccable with abundant Sri Lankan options (try New Asha, although you can't go wrong anywhere) and excellent Italian at Enoteca Maria for nonnas and their appreciators.

The Morgan Library & Museum Arrow

The Morgan is like a multi-hyphenate millennial—only instead of actress/model/influencer/whatever, it’s museum/library/landmark/historic site/music venue. Inside the multimillionaire’s personal library, expanded into a must-see museum and cultural space, you'll find rare artifacts, paintings, and books, some dating back to 4000 B.C. that are worth more than your house. In particular the museum is home to one of 23 copies of the original Declaration of Independence; Mozart's handwritten score of the Haffner Symphony; the collected works of African American poet Phillis Wheatley; the only extant manuscript of Milton's  Paradise Lost ; and Charles Dickens’s manuscript of  A Christmas Carol . Swoon.

MoMA PS1 Arrow

The sister institution to MoMA   is no ordinary art museum. Located in a striking Renaissance Revival former public school building in Long Island City, Queens, MoMA PS1’s setting is just as interesting as its collection. All manner of cutting-edge contemporary art is shown here, with a collection over 200,000 pieces strong, from the likes of James Turrell and Ai Weiwei. The people-watching can be just as good as the art, as creative types from around the city come here to find inspiration.

For locals and first-time visitors alike, seeing a Broadway show is a special experience, and one that is exclusive to New York City. Times Square is ordinarily a drag, but when you’re moseying into Midtown Manhattan for a show the bright billboards and lights don’t flash in your face—they dazzle in your eyes. A Broadway show's costumes, sets, songs, and stories are the stuff of dreams. Shows that could very well run forever include Wicked, The Book of Mormon, and Hamilton , but there's also an ever-rotating selection of revivals and debuts worth checking out. And that's not to mention the more daring fare happening downtown at theaters like the Public, Off-Broadway.

Bemelmans Bar Arrow

At Bemelmans, Ludwig Bemelman's illustrations—you might remember them from the Madeline books—adorn the walls. In one panel, a bunny smokes a cigar in Central Park ; in another, a man hands a boy a clutch of balloons. This is a bar where gawking is permissible. The cocktails here very much depend on who’s making them: an Old Fashioned might be a bit watery, a whiskey sour too tart. But often a dirty gin Martini is just perfectly executed. Everything is expensive—it’s clear why you’re here—so take the edge off that sensation by digging into the free, hearty snacks that float your way.

New York Botanical Garden Arrow

The New York Botanical Garden has carefully manicured flower gardens, lush fields, winding hikes, and impeccable greenhouses. There are spaces that feel deeply intimate, as if you're truly separated from the world, and there are vast expanses where it's hard to believe you're still in the Bronx . In winter, the greenhouses host an annual train show recreating all of New York City in miniature; the warmer months bring every floral delight imaginable, from cherry trees to peonies. Plan to spend at least half a day here and pack a picnic.

Brooklyn Heights Promenade

It’s one thing to be in the midst of Manhattan, on the ground; it’s quite another to look upon it from across the river. In Brooklyn Heights, a couple subway stops away from lower Manhattan, the city’s image looms large before you. Arguably the best view of the skyline in the city, the Brooklyn Heights promenade hovers above the Brooklyn-Queen Expressway. Underlying the peaceful, tree-lined walkway, traffic rumbles below. The promenade stretches from Remsen Street at the south end to Middagh Street at the north. Around the corner, pedestrians can discretely cross a basketball court to access a suspended footbridge that zigzags down to the piers of Brooklyn Bridge Park. While in the picturesque neighborhood, make stops at the New York Transit Museum, the Sardinian trattoria River Deli, and the old-time dive bar Montero.

Grand Central Terminal Arrow

Grand Central Terminal is more than just one of the busiest train stations in the world—it's a window into old New York and into a time when train travel was the ultimate luxury for the wealthy and a necessity for the working man. If you aren't commuting in or out of the city, avoid coming during rush hour, and take your time admiring the landmark architecture and checking out the top-notch dining and shopping.

9/11 Memorial and Museum Arrow

Every American should visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum at least once. As you enter the museum, you descend from the street to bedrock level—the foundation of the former Twin Towers—and are placed in a meditative mindset, forced to recall where you were on that fateful day. The museum itself is a masterful balance: It's grand in scale, contemplative in its construction, and personal in its execution. It pays homage to the enormity of the loss, both physical and spiritual. 

The Cloisters Arrow

Located on four acres in northern Manhattan's Fort Tryon Park, the Met Cloisters is a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art and is America’s only museum dedicated exclusively to the art and architecture of the Middle Ages. The building overlooks the Hudson River and actually incorporates five medieval-inspired cloisters into a modern museum structure, creating a historic, contextualized backdrop in which to view the art.

Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) Arrow

Located in Midtown Manhattan, the MoMA is larger than it appears as you approach it from the street below. One of the world’s most influential museums—displaying the works of important artists like Van Gogh, Monet, Picasso, Matisse, Rothko, Frida Kahlo, Salvador Dali, and Diane Arbus—it has 630,000 square feet of space and attracts more than a million visitors a year. While making a beeline for the fifth-floor Collection Galleries to take in The Starry Night and Monet’s Water Lilies is understandable, don’t miss the exhibitions, which tell new stories and can only be experienced in a limited time frame. Allocate time to spend pouring over the remarkable books and objects in the famous gift shop, too—an NYC must-visit in its own right.

Apollo Theater Arrow

Countless careers have been made and stars have passed through this world famous, legendary Harlem theater—Duke Ellington, Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, Ella Fitzgerald, Diana Ross, Lauryn Hill, and D’Angelo to name a few. The venue—which began as a white-only burlesque destination until 1934, when under new ownership it began welcoming and becoming central to the Black community—has been active for 88 years, with swing, blues, jazz, R&B, and comedy acts taking the stage. Today, visitors can attend events like Amateur Night at the Apollo, one of the city’s most long-standing, fame-making live shows. Capacity is 1,500, with three levels of seating, and contrary to the way it appears on 'Showtime at the Apollo,' is intimate without much legroom.

Prospect Park Arrow

Prospect Park is in many ways the Central Park of Brooklyn; in fact, it was designed shortly after by the same team of architects, Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, and has many of the same features: sprawling meadows, walking trails, and picturesque bodies of water. In feeling though, it’s more rambling and less manicured than its touristed Manhattan counterpart. Prospect Park Woodlands is Brooklyn’s last remaining forest, with 250 acres of trees, turtles, chipmunks, 200 species of birds, and other fauna and flora. There's also basketball and tennis courts, a carousel, playgrounds, zoo, and a 3.35-mile loop for runners and bikers (they’re fast —watch out!). While there, make a trip to adjacent Brooklyn Botanic Garden , particularly lovely during cherry blossom season.

Coney Island Arrow

Coney Island has a reputation as a circus-worthy tourist trap, which is exactly what it is. But you may be surprised by the old-timey charms of this beachfront American town. You’ll definitely be impressed by the food and drinks—Totonno's Pizza, Gargiulo's and Coney Island Brewery in particular. Locals and tourists hang out on the beach, eat ice cream cones on the promenade, and stand in line for the famed Cyclone roller coaster. The beach and boardwalk along with spots like Nathan’s are open year-round. The amusement park itself is seasonal. Events like the annual Mermaid Parade (crowded as they may be) are worth watching for the audacity and theatrics you can’t find anywhere else in the world but Coney Island.

Lincoln Center Arrow

World-renowned performing arts center Lincoln Center is always worth visiting when the opportunity arises, and in October 2022, David Geffen Hall, home to the New York Philharmonic, reopened after a major renovation that improved the venue’s acoustics and spiffed it up with a modern look. The sprawling Upper West Side complex is also home to the Metropolitan Opera, the New York City Ballet, the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, and Juilliard. All kinds of music, dance, theater, and films show here; some highlights from the upcoming calendar include the rapturously energetic New York Film Festival (catch the latest films long before they hit theaters, embedded in one of the reactive audiences on this Earth), the operas like The Life and Times of Malcom X and La Boheme , and ballets like The Nutcracker . Whether you’re on a special date or reconnecting with old friend when you’re in town, seeing a live performance at Lincoln Center will always make for an elegant and memorable night out.

Washington Square Park Arrow

If people-watching is your sport, Washington Square Park is your place. Entertainment is a given in this intimate, not-quite 10-acre space, filled with career chess players, musicians, performers, students, sunbathers, strollers, and general throngs of Greenwich Villagers, desperate for a bit of fresh air. Take your time as you go through: Pause beneath Washington Arch, honoring our country’s first president (for whom the Park is named), and observe the laurel wreaths and intricate motifs that extend from the base to the keystones, atop which twin eagles perch like constant watchmen. Washington Square Park is the beating heart of this vibrant New York neighborhood.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art Arrow

For nearly a century and a half, the Met has remained the cultural epicenter of New York City, thanks to forward-thinking exhibits and an extensive permanent collection. With its Gothic-Revival-style building, iconic tiered steps, and Central Park location, the building is a sight to be seen. But step inside its Great Hall—as a ceaseless parade of museumgoers move to-and-fro—and you’ll feel the overwhelming sense of possibility and discovery that lays beyond. If you've got limited time or compatriots with limited attention spans, start with the Temple of Dendur, a 2,000-year-old soaring Egyptian temple (the only complete one in the Western Hemisphere)

Blue Note Jazz Club Arrow

Blue Note has been one of the best jazz clubs in New York, and the world, since the 1980s. It offers music every night at 8 p.m. and 10:30, and on Friday and Saturday nights has a late night series at 12:30 a.m., which showcases emerging talent. If you're looking to get a taste of jazz in NYC, you can do no better. Over the years, legendary musicians including Sarah Vaughan, Dizzy Gillespie, and Ray Charles have performed on the Blue Note Stage, as well as contemporary jazz acts such as Wynton Marsalis, Keith Jarrett, and Chris Botti. Tables are intimate, close-set, and all-ages (with the bar being 21-plus).

Union Square Greenmarket Arrow

Union Square is a place of the people, not unlike the agoras of ancient Athens—and no offering of Union Square showcases this quality quite like the bustling Greenmarket. From upstate New York, the Berkshires , New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, vendors sell artisan bread, honey, fresh-cut flowers, heritage meats, pastries, seasonal fruits and vegetables both common and uncommon, and much more. Don't miss the free events, like book signings and more: Cooking demos take place at the Market Information tent daily, beer and spirits pop-ups show seasonally, and the education station offers tours and tastings.

Rockefeller Center Arrow

Rockefeller Center sits in the heart of midtown Manhattan, both in terms of its physical location and its prominent place in the city's folklore and culture. Whether you want to check out a performance on the plaza outside the TODAY show, visit the Christmas tree, or practice your best moves on the ice skating rink, you're in for an iconic, family-friendly experience. If you buy a ticket to Top of the Rock, you'll enjoy spectacular views of the city below. No matter where you are, you're bound to be constantly pointing and shouting “hey, look at that!”

Comedy Cellar Arrow

None of the promoters on MacDougal Street shouting “stand-up comedy tonight!” are trying to get you into the Comedy Cellar, where the show is already sold out. Blockbuster stars like Jerry Seinfeld and Eddie Murphy made their names at the Cellar; if you're lucky, one may show up the night you're there. Seating is intimate and close together, and there is a two-item minimum on food or drinks. It's 21-plus and vaccine-mandatory; be prepared to surrender your phone at the door, too. There's no bad seat in the house, but sit in the front at your own risk of getting (playfully) heckled by the host or a comic.

American Museum of Natural History Arrow

Truly one of the world's great natural history museums, the American Museum of Natural History spans four city blocks just across from Central Park . All aspects of the natural world are represented here, from a vast collection of taxidermy mammals, to depictions of the life of Native American tribes, to an entire hall dedicated to marine life—including a life-size model of a blue whale. The crown jewel is the dinosaur floor, with an imposing Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton that dominates the room. The newest attraction comes in the form of the long-awaited Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation , which opened in May of 2023 and, among many other things, boasts a comprehensive insectarium and vivarium. Breathtaking architecture from New York-based Jeanne Gang doesn't hurt, either.

The Strand Book Store Arrow

With its towering stacks, filled with more than 2.5 million titles, this 94-year-old bookstore is less neighborhood haunt and more globally recognized institution. You could call the Strand's employees tour guides, considering their deft ability to find the exact title you're looking for and recommend a book you may not have otherwise plucked from the shelves. The store will make you question why you don’t read more; and chances are you won’t leave empty-handed.

Bronx Zoo Arrow

With more than 700 different animal species spread across 265 acres of parkland thoughtfully designed to mimic natural habitats, the Bronx Zoo is a great place to escape from Manhattan for the day, especially if you're traveling with kids. Don't miss the giraffe building, the Congo gorilla forest, the house of reptiles, the flamingos in the sea bird aviary, and the sea lions, who always make for an exciting show. If you want to blow the minds of a bunch of kids, you can do no better.

Governors Island Arrow

Located in New York Harbor, only 800 yards from Manhattan and 400 yards from Brooklyn, walking onto quirky, car-free, brick-covered, 173-acre Governors Island feels like being transported to an alternate universe from the city—but in reality it's a quick, affordable ferry ride away. One-way fare is $4 and boats are serviced from Lower Manhattan’s Battery Maritime Building every day, as well as from Brooklyn Bridge Park and Atlantic Basin in Red Hook on the weekends. In the past couple of years, Governors Island has become an even more popular city destination, and has welcomed a slew of new luxury businesses. One is special in particular: Collective, the only place you can stay overnight on the island. Collective is a glamping experience, offering plush beds inside the tents, morning yoga, sunset cocktails, and iconic skyline views—Lady Liberty included, herself. Which is all to say, you’re by no means roughing it here. On the menu at their restaurant, you’ll find grilled seafood, gorgeous spreads of pastries, and more. Another luxury experience new to the island is QC NY Spa, with top-grade saunas and a skyline view-filled pool.

Elsewhere Arrow

Located in Brooklyn on a hip stretch of Bushwick’s Jefferson Avenue, Elsewhere—a vast, three-story nightclub and live music venue with multiple dance floors, stages, and a rooftop—has become one of the city’s best nightlife destinations. Spinning disco balls and kaleidoscopic lights set the scene. A somewhat recent staple in the city’s nightlife scene, Elsewhere is a converted warehouse that opened in 2017. Blocks away from similar venues like Avant Gardener and House of Yes, Elsewhere stands out for its inclusivity, its intimate vibe in spite of its size, and for lifting up smaller, up-and-coming acts.

Rockaway Beach Arrow

One of the best public beaches you can visit in New York City proper, Rockaway is a sandy, sprawling stretch of surf located in Queens on the Atlantic Ocean, complete with a 5.5-mile boardwalk of delicious concessions. A summery way to get there in style? Take the ferry from Wall Street or Sunset Park, Brooklyn, and let the wind blow through your hair as you take in the city views, sailing under the Verrazano Bridge and past Coney Island on the way. From just about everywhere else in the city, you can also get there via the A train. Each stretch has a different crowd and personality: Beach 90-106 is the busiest section, with the most food and drink options; Beaches 67-69 as well as 90-92 are the surfing zones; between Beach 153 and Beach 169 you’ll find Jacob Riis Park, which is popular with young people and is a summer gathering place for the city’s LGBTQ+ community.

Bedford Avenue, Williamsburg Arrow

Sip iced coffee in McCarren Park, catch an indie show at Baby's All Right, walk two blocks over to some of the city's most-coveted Italian at Lilia (with a month-in-advance res, of course.) This is the busiest thoroughfare in hip Williamsburg: Bedford Avenue—and the L train that feeds it—might as well be North Brooklyn’s own personal people-watching catwalk. Pedestrians with voluminous pants, dogs with miniature rain boots, and high-speed scooters will swish past you. As you make your way south from the subway station, likely en route from the East Village, you’ll pass local businesses that characterize the area, like Catbird (ethereal, vintage-inspired jewelry), Spoonbill & Sugartown Books (poetry, special design and cookbooks, cards), and Awoke Vintage (best-known for their genuine denim often from the ‘90s.)

Empire State Building Arrow

Though many across town are trying, there's still no better way to enjoy Manhattan's cityscape than from the top of the Empire State Building. The 102-story skyscraper was the tallest building in the world for 40 years, and though it's been outgrown by dozens of projects across three other continents, it's just the classic viewing point. There are, of course, always long lines to buy tickets, but that's nothing a little planning and purchasing in advance can't solve. It's also still a functioning office building with a bustling Art Deco lobby, so the people watching on the way up is excellent.

Tenement Museum Arrow

The Lower East Side Tenement Museum is, as the name implies, a historic tenement house (two, if you want to get technical). On a tour of the tenements, you’ll hear personal histories of the working-class individuals who lived there and see how they made do with cramped quarters to build new lives in America. On a neighborhood walking tour—the other way to visit the museum—you’ll learn about the evolution of the Lower East Side and how its thriving immigrant population made it the most densely populated area in the country during the 1900s.

Industry City Arrow

This stretch of waterfront has been a hub of Brooklyn manufacturing since Irving T. Bush first developed his family's rail-marine terminal (then called Bush Terminal) in the mid-1890s to add warehouse structures. The sprawling campus that stands today in the quiet Sunset Park neighborhood is Industry City, the ripe and succulent fruit of decades' worth of redevelopment efforts. The idea here is one-stop shopping: Pick up a coffee from one proprieter and sip it while flitting through the Makers’ Guild’s wonderful artisan shops. There's also a slate of full-service restaurants and outdoor spaces—manicured lawns on-par with what you'd expect from those in a private, luxury apartment building.

Russian Turkish Baths Arrow

This is a really nice place to hang out for half a day—beneath the churning East Village, sweating it out in a no-frills den of functionality. Up a steep, nondescript stoop in that neighborhood and through a heavy door and you’re in, leaving your wallet in a safety deposit box in exchange for a locker room key and then down another stair to the subterranean saunas and steam rooms. They’ve got ‘em all here, from the red hot Russian room (where they also perform the platza venik treatment) to a more bearable Turkish, with a cold plunge and showers for in-between regulation. There’s also a bountiful food menu serving up such classics as borscht and beef stew to keep you nurtured.

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New York City Guide: Planning Your Trip

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• One Day in NYC: Itinerary
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New York City is an iconic destination chock full of attractions — but it can also be overwhelming to visit. Which days are best to visit busy places like the Met and the Empire State Building, and how do you avoid tourist traps and discover local hangouts? Did you know the city has tons of outdoorsy activities for all seasons? And what about deciding between so many acclaimed bars and restaurants of all types?

Whether you want to spend the weekend in the city or a whole week exploring, planning your trip is important to ensure you make the most of your time. Let’s explore the best the city has to offer and help you decide when to visit, learn what to see and do, and discover where to eat, drink, and stay during your trip.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit: Figuring out the best time to visit really depends on what you want to do on your trip. New York City is a great destination year round, but each season has its own perks (and disadvantages). Winter is great for visitors who want to experience the wonders of the  holiday season in New York City  and after New Year’s crowds really dwindle and prices drop. Spring and fall are ideal in terms of mild weather and being able to take full advantage of everything the city has to offer. And while summer can get very hot and humid and it also brings lots of crowds, there are tons of free events and beaches , pools , and parks are in full swing.
• Language: English is the official language of New York, but you’ll also hear a lot of Spanish   , Mandarin, and plenty of other languages in this melting pot.
• Currency : U.S. dollar
• Getting Around: Public transportation makes getting around New York City easy, fast, and affordable. Quite often, you’ll find it’s best to take a bus or the subway to avoid traffic and save money. Before you give it a go, familiarize yourself with the routes by looking at maps so you don’t get lost or take the wrong  train . Sometimes though, it can be more convenient or appropriate to take a taxi, Lyft, Uber , or  car service . A cab is a good option for a group and might save money. You also might feel safer in a car late at night, although buses and the subway run all night long   . Renting a car if you’re staying in the city is generally a bad idea as parking is difficult to find and/or very expensive. Plus, traffic is typically horrendous.
• Travel Tip: Remember, New York City is more than just Manhattan and all five boroughs are worth visiting, especially Brooklyn and Queens , which are quite easy to get to from Manhattan. To avoid crowds, get an early start to your day and consider visiting the mot popular sites during the week if you can.

Things To Do

Whether it’s your first or tenth visit, New York City has so much to offer. It is brimming with attractions and activities, from world-class museums and monuments to stunning parks to shopping galore . There are things for kids and families , romantic activities for couples, and friend groups can be kept busy for days. Architecture fans, history buffs, entertainment lovers, foodies , shoppers , art hounds, and culture vultures will all be happy here. Don’t miss these activities:

• Museums and Galleries: Visitors would be hard pressed to visit all the museums in NYC; from art to history to science and even food, there are hundreds of museums and galleries   to see. Beyond the classics like the Met , MoMA , American Museum of Natural History , and the 9/11 Memorial & Museum , await the Brooklyn Museum , Queens Hall of Science , Museum of the City of New York, El Museo del Barrio, and the Museum of Food and Drink, to name a few.
• Boat Rides: Remember that New York City is surrounded by water   and seeing the sights by boat is a great experience. A number of companies offer  boat tours and cruises  around the city, pay a few bucks to ride the East River Ferry to a number of locations, or hop on the Staten Island Ferry for free. 
• Theater and Shows : Broadway shows are a highlight for many visitors and for good reason. There’s also plenty of Off-Broadway, Off-Off-Broadway, and experimental and avant-garde venues putting on some of the best theater in the world. And don’t forget the music scene — almost every band comes through NYC to play at one of its most famous concert venues, like Carnegie Hall, Radio City Music Hall , Lincoln Center , Bowery Ballroom, Kings Theatre, and Music Hall of Williamsburg.

Where to Eat and Drink

New York City is known for its plethora of food options, including iconic dishes that are must-eats on any trip. Be sure to grab a slice of pizza , a bagel with lox, a bodega egg and cheese on a roll, a classic deli sandwich, and a hot dog . And don’t forget to partake in brunch , a NYC tradition. But the best part about New York City is that you can find foods from across the globe here thanks to immigrants from around the world, be it inside Michelin-starred dining rooms or hole-in-the-wall eateries serving everything from Ethiopian to Burmese to Korean to Italian to Israeli to Mexican and beyond . You can go big at a steakhouse or find cheap eats throughout the five boroughs. And every neighborhood has something unique to offer if you look hard enough — even Times Square .

Drinking is just as important as eating in NYC and there are plenty of craft cocktail bars, historic taverns, breweries and taprooms, wine and Champagne bars, and even alcohol-free drink spots. And, there are some incredible coffee shops to start your day at.

Explore our articles on the most romantic restaurants , the best family-friendly restaurants, and the most expensive restaurants in NYC.

Where to Stay

Hotels are easy to find in New York City, but finding the right room for you is a different story. Where you stay is going to depend on which borough and neighborhood you prefer, if you’re alone, with a significant other , or with your family , and how much you want to spend . Midtown Manhattan is the most popular place to stay because it’s where most of the tourist attractions are but it is also one of the most expensive areas. If you’re willing to move north or south, there are some good  budget-friendly hotels in Manhattan available. And of course, if you want to stay somewhere with a  view of Central Park , near nightlife in Chelsea , or in the center of trendy SoHo , expect to pay a premium but be very happy. If you’re amenable to heading over the bridge to Brooklyn, there are some excellent options, and many people prefer its more low key vibe. Other options aside from hotels include short-term apartment rentals (a good value if you’re staying for three nights or more and may want to cook instead of eating out), hostels  for those on a tight budget, and Airbnb rentals—although beware that these might be operating illegally   .

Explore the different neighborhoods you can stay in, and see our recommendations on the best hotels in NYC with Pools and the Best NYC Airport Hotels .

Getting There

There are myriad ways to get to NYC: flying, by train, by bus, or driving. The main airports are:

• John F. Kennedy International Airport is the largest and has the most international flights, but it can be intimidating and exhausting to traverse its many terminals. It is 16 miles from Midtown Manhattan and there are various ways to get there .
• La Guardia International Airport in Queens is more manageable and recent upgrades have greatly improved its look, functionality, and services. It also has plenty of flights from most major carriers but less international options than JFK and EWR and some airlines, like Delta and United, use the other area airports as their hubs and so have fewer flights from La Guardia as a result. It is a little closer to Midtown Manhattan at 8.5 miles away and there are various ways to get there .
• Newark Liberty International Airport  in Newark, New Jersey, is 16 miles from Midtown Manhattan and sometimes flights there can be cheaper (but taxis generally cost more from there to NYC). It is the hub for United so almost all United flights will arrive and depart from here and it also has robust international offerings.

Amtrak trains to other major East Coast cities run fairly often to and from Penn Station and there are also trains to cities farther afield. Buses are usually the cheapest option, with Greyhound , Megabus , Bolt Bus, and smaller companies serving the city. And of course, driving is always an option but keep in mind that parking can be difficult and expensive.

Culture and Customs

New York City has a culture all its own and there are several unwritten rules that locals follow, including how to walk on a busy sidewalk (hint: don’t stop in the middle of it), subway etiquette , how to hail a cab, and proper bicycle behavior.

Tipping is important in NYC; be sure to tip taxi drivers, wait staff at restaurants, and bartenders.

Is New York City safe?  It's a question visitors ask all the time and, in general, it is a safe city   . However, swindlers and thieves can often spot “out of towners” so a little common sense is required.

Money Saving Tips

• There are tons of awesome free activities , events , and places to visit in NYC, from parks to museums.
• Several museums and attractions have certain days or times that are Pay What You Wish or are sometimes free .
• If you plan on riding the subway and taking buses at least several times a day, you can save money by getting an MTA MetroCard for a day or week of unlimited rides.
• Check out TKTS and other discount venues for cheaper Broadway tickets and don’t forget about standing room only .
• Head to the outer boroughs for many excellent yet more affordable restaurants and eateries.

U.S. Census Bureau. " Languages Spoken at Home ." 2018

MTA. " How to Ride the Subway ."

NYC & Company. " Museums & Galleries in NYC ."

The Official Website of the City of New York. " New York City Water Bodies ." 2014

Airbnb. " New York, NY ." 2020

The Economist Intelligence Unit . "Safe Cities Index 2017."

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The best nyc itinerary: 3-7 days in new york city.

If you’re visiting New York for the first time, this is the perfect NYC itinerary to get your first taste of the city! And if you’re lucky enough to stay longer, check out the 4 bonus days I’ve included.

An Exciting 3-Day NYC Itinerary + 4 Bonus Days (2024)

Welcome to my ultimate NYC itinerary for first-timers! This guide will answer all your questions and give you an itinerary that’s easy to customize for your big trip to New York City. We’ve visited NYC just about every year for the last 10 years. It’s one of our favorite places and each time we go, we find something new to love!

I’ve already created an extensive NYC itinerary for kids and Christmas in NYC , but I’ve also been plenty of times without my kids, so I wanted to give you a more adult first-timers itinerary. When you’re planning an NYC itinerary, 3 days is the perfect amount of time to get a feel for the Big Apple. You can wander through Central Park, enjoy the views from the top of the Empire State Building, and explore the Museum Mile.

Make sure to book a Broadway show and a guided tour or 2. Plus, there are all the amazing restaurants and food that the Big Apple is known for. And don’t miss the chance to walk the legendary Brooklyn Bridge or take a stroll along the High Line.

Below you’ll get a top-notch 3-day itinerary, plus even more suggestions for additional 4 days in New York City. Get ready for all the charm and energy that an NYC adventure has to offer!

What to Know about NYC Before You Go

When you start to plan a visit to New York City for the first time, a lot of questions will probably come to mind! Here are some FAQs that will help you have the best experience in The City That Never Sleeps.

What’s the best way to get around in New York City?

For first-time visitors to NYC, the subway is the best way to get around. The subway is made to be easy to navigate with easy-to-read signs and a color-coded system. The extensive network of train lines takes you to all the most popular attractions, neighborhoods, and landmarks. Plus, it’s affordable, offers 24/7 service, and allows you to avoid traffic congestion.

However, if you prefer rideshare services, Uber and Lyft are widely available options (just watch out for price spikes). And for shorter distances, consider using Citi Bike , the city’s bike-sharing program. You’ll find stations throughout Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx where you can pick up and drop off bikes.

What apps should I use in New York City?

When you’re navigating NYC for the first time and want to make the most of your trip, several apps can help:

• Citymapper : This essential app provides real-time directions for public transportation, ensuring you can efficiently navigate the subway and buses.
• MTA Subway Time : The official MTA app is another great option that offers live updates on train schedules and service changes.
• Uber and Lyft: You probably already have these ones on your phone, and they’re a must in NYC if you prefer rideshares.
• NYCTaxiMeter : When all else fails, there’s always a yellow cab around somewhere! This awesome app helps estimate fares and track expenses.
• TodayTix : If you want to secure discounted tickets to Broadway shows and other performances, TodayTix is super helpful.
• Go City Card: I’m a big fan of Go City Card, which provides access to popular attractions with bundled savings! Purchase Go City New York Card here.
• OpenTable : Looking for last-minute dinner reservations? This app offers easy booking and allows you to search nearby, by neighborhood, reviews, and more.

What airport should I fly into?

When flying into New York City, the 2 primary airports to consider are John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and LaGuardia Airport (LGA). Each option has pros and cons you’ll have to consider.

JFK is the largest and accepts the most flights. You can also take AirTran to the subway, but it’s the longest train ride from Manhattan (often over an hour). LaGuardia accepts mainly domestic flights. It’s closer to Manhattan, but you’ll need to get a rideshare or taxi.

You could also fly into New Jersey’s Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). It’s actually pretty convenient and affordable if you’re staying in Manhattan. You can take Amtrak or NJ Transit, and car services and taxis are pretty affordable from here as well.

Should I bring my car to New York City?

I don’t recommend bringing a car to NYC, especially if it’s your first time! First, parking in Manhattan can be expensive, scarce, and time-consuming. The streets are often congested, and navigating the city’s bustling traffic can be overwhelming. Plus, you have the subway and buses readily available. Public transit in NYC is efficient and cost-effective for getting around the city.

Manhattan is a pedestrian-friendly destination, with many attractions within walking distance or easily accessible by train. Public transit is the best way to have the most authentic experience and enjoy a stress-free exploration of all the iconic sights that New York City has to offer!

Are there neighborhoods I should visit outside of Manhattan?

Absolutely! Manhattan offers so many incredible attractions, but you’ll enjoy a more unique experience if you can plan even one afternoon to explore the other vibrant boroughs of NYC.

Brooklyn is a must-visit, with its vibrant arts scene, hipster havens like Williamsburg, and the picturesque Brooklyn Heights. Queens offers cultural diversity, with neighborhoods like Flushing, which is known for its vibrant food scene. And the Bronx boasts infamous attractions like the Bronx Zoo and Yankee Stadium.

Is NYC a safe place to visit? Where should I avoid?

New York City is generally a safe place to visit, with millions of tourists enjoying their time in the city each year. Overall, you can have an amazing visit to NYC by exercising some caution and staying aware of your surroundings.

The majority of neighborhoods in NYC are safe for visitors, including popular areas like Times Square, Central Park, and the Theater District. If you’re concerned about higher crime rates, you’ll want to avoid the South Bronx, East New York, and Brownsville in Brooklyn.

While the city is relatively safe, you should exercise more caution, especially at night. Stay in well-populated and well-lit areas, use only public transportation options, and avoid displaying expensive belongings.

Be sure to bring a travel safe bag, like this one, and always be aware of where your wallet and phone are, especially while riding in crowded trains.

What’s the weather like in New York City?

When you’re planning a trip to New York, it’s important to check the weather forecast in advance of your trip. NYC experiences 4 distinct seasons.

Summers (June to August) are generally warm and humid, with temperatures hovering between 70-90 degrees Fahrenheit. Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) bring milder temperatures, ranging from the 50s to 70s. Spring and fall also bring the most rain to New York City.

Winters (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures varying widely, from below 0 to well into the 40s Fahrenheit. Snowfall is common in winter, but it varies from year to year.

When should I plan a trip to New York City?

The best time to plan a trip to New York City depends on your preferences and what you would like to experience. And it’s a pedestrian city, so you should be prepared for the elements no matter when you visit!

Spring is a great time to explore parks, enjoy outdoor activities, and see cherry blossoms in bloom. Summers are hot, but they also bring festive energy to the city. This is peak season, with outdoor concerts, street festivals, and more!

Fall brings vibrant fall foliage and festive events like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. And winter in NYC can be cold, it’s also a magical time with holiday decorations, ice-skating rinks, and Christmas markets. Just keep in mind that winter is the city’s second peak season.

If you’re a Christmas fan, December is a really fun time for visiting NYC. The holiday decorations are amazing and plentiful and there are plenty of festive activities, restaurants, and bars to visit. Christmas in New York City is magical!

What should I pack?

There are some essentials I suggest packing for an NYC 3-day itinerary. However, if you forget something, don’t worry! You’re in one of the shopping capitals of the world! Packing will be a little different, depending on when you come to New York City, but here are some basics I recommend:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Waterproof shoes for rainy days
• Breathable separates for daytime exploring
• A few nice outfits for dinners and shows
• Rain jacket
• Portable charger
• Reusable water bottle
• A good travel safe bag

What should I eat in NYC?

When visiting New York City, there are several iconic foods that every visitor should try. First and foremost, grab a classic New York slice of pizza from a neighborhood dollar pizzeria (skip Sbarros). Get a hot dog from a street cart at least once. And don’t forget to top it with mustard and sauerkraut!

If you’ve never tried a New York City bagel with cream cheese and lox, head to a bakery on the Lower East Side. A beef pastrami sandwich from Katz’s Deli is a must. We love it so much that we have the pastrami shipped to us in California on special occasions! It’s that good. And if you find yourself in Brooklyn, head to Juniors for a slice of their iconic cheesecake.

Black and white cookies are a New York tradition (and they make great food souvenirs!). And while you’re shopping in Little Italy, look for a pasticceria, where you can enjoy a cannoli and a cappuccino.

Book a Photoshoot

We always love to book a photoshoot when we’re traveling. As a mom, it’s tough to get in the photos since I’m always behind the camera. We love using Flytographer to capture our memories. You can get $25 off your shoot by booking with this link or using code WANDERLUST.

Are there tourist attractions I should avoid?

While Times Square is an iconic and bustling area, it can be overcrowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. If you prefer a quieter experience or get overwhelmed easily, you might opt out of this one.

And you might want to avoid Chinatown if you don’t want to get bombarded with vendors selling fake designer bags. And NEVER follow vendors into back buildings, no matter what they offer you! Instead, head to Little Italy for souvenirs and tourist-friendly dining.

This is your chance to lean into being a tourist! Just remember, it’s always a good idea to research specific attractions beforehand and decide which ones will be on your NYC itinerary.

How expensive is New York City?

New York City has a reputation for being an expensive destination. And it’s true that certain aspects, like hotels and upscale restaurants, can be costly. But with careful planning and research, it’s possible to enjoy New York City without breaking the bank!

The city offers a range of options to fit different budgets, including affordable dining options. You can stay in a vacation rental or a hotel outside of Manhattan to cut costs on accommodations. There are all kinds of free or low-cost attractions, like museums with suggested donations. And the subway is affordable and can help you save on transportation costs.

Are New Yorkers mean?

Not at all! If anything, I would say that New Yorkers are tough but very nice. Depending on where you’re from, NYCers are not afraid to get to the point, but it’s usually because they have somewhere they need to be. They’ll speak up if you’re slowing everyone down. 

They’re from all over the world, and they’re used to dealing with large crowds of people, crowded trains, and long lines. But if you need anything, they’re helpful and very kind. So don’t be afraid to ask for directions if you’re lost!

Where’s the best place to stay in New York City?

Don’t make the mistake of thinking you can stay in Queens and travel every day to do things in Manhattan! For your first visit to NYC, I suggest staying in a central location like Midtown or Chelsea.

If you’re looking for something a little outside the hustle and bustle of the city, Williamsburg, Brooklyn has a wide range of fabulous hotels. Or book an apart-hotel in Park Slope. Both stops are only 20 minutes from the Financial District. Here are a few recommendations:

$$$$$ Lotte New York Palace in Midtown East

$$$$ The William Vale in Williamsburg

$$$ The Maritime Hotel in Chelsea

$$$ Sonder The Industrialist in Park Slope

$$ Moxy NYC Times Square in Times Square

$$ The SoHotel in SoHo

If you drive into New York City or plan on renting a car, just double-check that your accommodations offer parking. Also, confirm whether it’s long-term parking or if you can take your vehicle in and out during your stay.

Plan the Best 3 Days in New York City

You’re on your way to planning an amazing 3 days in NYC! Below I’ll suggest how to break up each day so you can get the most out of your limited time in the big city.

If you’re working simply with a 3-day itinerary, NYC neighborhoods to focus on would be in Manhattan. We’ll start in Midtown and move out from there. And keep in mind that if you have more than 3 days or want to switch things up, you have 4 bonus days to play with below.

• Day 1 – Midtown Manhattan

You’ve arrived at the center of the universe! Midtown Manhattan is a bustling hub of activity that captivates visitors with its unique charm. This is where you’ll find Penn Station and Grand Central Station, both major transit hubs in and out of the city. If you’re taking the train from the airport, this is probably where you’ll end up.

Known for its iconic skyline and bustling streets, Midtown is a mashup of cultures, cuisines, and commerce. The area is filled with towering skyscrapers, world-class museums, bustling business centers, and luxury shopping destinations. Midtown is also home to Times Square, with its bright lights, Broadway theaters, and waves of visitors.

You’ll probably end up in this neighborhood throughout your entire visit to New York City, so it’s a good area to get familiar with! After you arrive at your hotel, I recommend a hop-on-hop-off bus tour to get your bearings. Then check out more of the best things to do in Midtown Manhattan!

Things to Do in Midtown

• Be dazzled by the iconic intersection at Times Square
• See a variety of Broadway shows in the Theater District
• Visit the 2 observation decks at the Empire State Building
• Savor Korean BBQ and check out the karaoke lounges in Koreatown
• Explore the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
• Enjoy shopping the flagship stores and designer boutiques on Fifth Avenue
• Head to Rockefeller Center and the Top of the Rock observation deck
• See the Rockettes Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall
• See the stunning architecture of Grand Central Terminal
• Take a picture with the lions outside the New York Public Library
• Enjoy all the seasonal events and outdoor space at Bryant Park
• Go up into the newest observation deck at Summit at ONE Vanderbilt
• Walk through the regal St. Patrick’s Cathedral
• Check out the Flatiron Building on your way to Madison Square Park
• Day 2 – Financial District + Lower East Side

This is your 1 full day on your New York City itinerary, so let’s make the most of it! Below Houston Street, there are so many historical sites and iconic NYC attractions in one place. With so much to do, today will be all about the Financial District, the Lower East Side, and perhaps a quick jaunt through Little Italy and Chinatown.

The Lower East Side, known for its rich immigrant history, has evolved into a trendy and eclectic neighborhood. Here you’ll find historical landmarks, old-school delis, trendy eateries, and boutique shops.

Then there’s the Financial District, the bustling center of commerce and finance. It is home to Wall Street, the New York Stock Exchange, and the One World Trade Center. With landmarks such as Trinity Church, the neighborhood is a blend of old and new, with narrow cobblestone streets juxtaposed against sleek modern skyscrapers.

Both Little Italy and Chinatown are distinct neighborhoods that present rich traditions, flavors, and colors of Italy and China. You might be seeking delicious food, cultural immersion, or just a captivating stroll through vibrant streets, Little Italy and Chinatown provide unforgettable experiences.

I suggest beginning your day with a visit to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island . Then head out on foot to explore more of Lower Manhattan!

Things to Do Financial District + Lower East Side

• See Wall Street up close, the home to the New York Stock Exchange
• Take a picture with the bronze Charging Bull sculpture
• Go up in the One World Trade Center observation deck
• Book a tour of the 9/11 Museum & Memorial
• Walk through the 17th-century Trinity Church
• Take in stunning views of New York Harbor from the waterfront Battery Park
• Ride the Staten Island Ferry for free past the Empire State Building and Ellis Island
• Take a stroll along Mulberry Street to see the best shops and eateries of Chinatown and Little Italy
• Learn about the lives of early immigrants at the Tenement Museum
• Tour the Museum at Eldridge Street to learn about NYC’s Jewish heritage
• Order pastrami sandwiches for lunch at the iconic Katz’s Delicatessen
• Day 3 – Museum Mile + Central Park

On the 3rd day of your NYC itinerary, you’re on to more iconic NYC landmarks. You’ll spend your day exploring Museum Mile, located along Fifth Avenue on the Upper East Side. And if you have time, take a walk through Central Park!

Museum Mile is a stretch of road that spans approximately one mile and is home to renowned institutions such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art (Met), the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, the Museum of the City of New York, and more.

And when you’re visiting NYC, no trip is complete without a stop at Central Park! Situated in the heart of Manhattan, this massive urban oasis serves as a retreat from the bustling city. You can enjoy picturesque landscapes, special events, landmarks, and a variety of recreational activities.

Things to Do on the Upper East Side + Central Park

• Visit the world-renown Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met)
• Explore the iconic Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
• Head to the Museum of the City of New York
• Tour El Museo del Barrio to experience Latinx and Caribbean art and culture
• See the Jewish Museum’s collection of artifacts and artworks
• Peruse exhibits at the Museum of African Art
• Admire the beautiful Bethesda Terrace and take photos by the fountain
• Take an hour to visit the infamous Central Park Zoo
• Pay tribute to John Lennon at the Strawberry Fields Memorial
• Cross the Bow Bridge, one of Central Park’s most scenic spots
• Relax on the expansive Great Lawn with other locals and tourists
• Head to the west side of the park to visit the American Museum of Natural History
• Rent a rowboat at The Loeb Boathouse or enjoy a meal overlooking the lake
• Go ice skating in the winter at Wollman Rink, or rollerblading in the summer
• Explore Shakespeare Garden, featuring flowers mentioned in the works of William Shakespeare

If You Have More Time In Your New York City Trip

If you have an additional 4 days to explore New York City, here are some additional neighborhoods to consider visiting:

• Day 4 – Greenwich Village

If you have 4 days in New York, take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the history of Greenwich Village. Make a great start to the day by grabbing a bagel and heading to people-watch at Washington Square Park!

Often called simply “The Village,” this Lower Manhattan neighborhood is made up of both Greenwich Village and the West Village. It’s been home to many influential artists, writers, and musicians throughout history. Today, it’s where you’ll find a diverse range of dining options, iconic entertainment venues, and historic landmarks.

Greenwich Village has been a hub for creativity and counterculture movements for decades. It became synonymous with the Beat Generation in the 1950s and the folk music scene of the 1960s. The neighborhood also played a significant role in LGBTQ+ history as the site of the Stonewall Riots, a pivotal event in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights.

When planning a New York itinerary, 4 days will give you a chance to add some of these exciting Greenwich Village stops to your list.

Things to Do in The Village

• See the famous art and street performers of Washington Square Park
• Explore the boutique shops and cafes lining charming Bleecker Street
• Visit the historic Stonewall Inn, where the Stonewall Riots began
• Pay homage at the Stonewall National Monument at Christopher Park
• Enjoy stand-up comedy performances at the renowned Comedy Cellar
• Experience Cafe Wha?, where Bob Dylan and Jimi Hendrix once performed
• Check out the restaurants, bars, and live music venues along MacDougal Street
• Order a drink and listen to world-class musicians at the Blue Note Jazz Club
• Head to the IFC Center for a line-up of independent and foreign films
• Indulge in Magnolia Bakery’s recognizable cupcakes
• Peruse artisanal cheeses at the historic Murray’s Cheese Shop
• Attend an Off-Broadway production at The Cherry Lane Theatre
• Have a meal at the White Horse Tavern and sit where Jack Kerouac once sat
• Find the iconic buildings used for the exterior shots of Monica’s apartment in the TV show “Friends”
• Day 5 – Brooklyn

Brooklyn, one of New York City’s boroughs, is a massive place. But you’ll get a good feel for it on day 5! Start with a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge and pizza in DUMBO before you jump on a train to historic Coney Island! Or take a walking tour of Bushwick’s street art .

Brooklyn is known for its thriving arts scene, with galleries, music venues, and street art everywhere. The borough is also home to beautiful green spaces, and its food culture is picking up steam. Exploring Brooklyn is a great way to experience authentic New York City neighborhoods, each with its own atmosphere and architectural style.

Brooklyn offers so many things that you need more than 1 day on a New York 5-day itinerary. For now, pick and choose a few of the best things to do in Brooklyn!

Things to Do in Brooklyn

• Take in the New York City skyline when you walk the Brooklyn Bridge
• Explore Brooklyn Museum, one of the largest art museums in the country
• Enjoy outdoor activities in the expansive Prospect Park
• Discover the hip culinary scene and vintage shopping in Williamsburg
• Wander the cobblestone streets of DUMBO and take in views of the Manhattan Bridge
• Spend a beach day along iconic the Coney Island boardwalk
• See the world-famous cherry blossoms bloom in the Brooklyn Botanic Garden
• Indulge in trendy and unusual culinary delights at Smorgasburg
• Take in the Manhattan skyline and the Brooklyn Bridge from the Brooklyn Heights Promenade
• Enjoy all the green spaces, playgrounds, and summer activities to be found at the massive Brooklyn Bridge Park
• Take a stroll through historic Brooklyn Heights, with its beautiful brownstone houses
• Visit the unique New York Transit Museum inside an old subway station
• Ride Jane’s Carousel, located in Brooklyn Bridge Park
• Day 6 – Chelsea + Hudson Yards

Heading back to Manhattan, you might need a low-key day with built-in views and casual things to do. This is a good time to enjoy some laid-back shopping, eating, and outdoor fun. So, head to the gorgeous neighborhoods of Chelsea and Hudson Yards on the Hudson River side of Manhattan.

This part of Manhattan was once the industrial part of town, and you can still see remnants of that time! Today, art galleries, boutiques, and hip restaurants fill old factories and warehouses. It’s also home to the High Line, an elevated park built on a historic railway line, offering unforgettable views and unique urban green spaces.

Hudson Yards, on the other hand, has been developed into a contemporary neighborhood of sleek luxury high-rise buildings. It’s become the newest area for tourists with great shopping, eateries, and landmark parks.

It’s worth planning half a day to visit these unique New York City neighborhoods. So, check out my suggestions for what to do in Chelsea and Hudson Yards.

Things to Do in Chelsea + Hudson Yards

• Visit the fascinating Little Island, a park on stilts with views of the Hudson
• Explore the High Line, with its scenic views and green spaces
• Check out all the food vendors and trendy shops inside Chelsea Market
• Enjoy a game of golf or go bowling at Chelsea Piers
• Climb up into The Vessel for stunning views of the surrounding area
• Enjoy an afternoon of shopping at The Shops at Hudson Yards
• Peruse Mercado Little Spain, an authentic Spanish food hall and market
• Day 7 – Bronx + Harlem + Upper West Side

Get the most out of the last day of your NYC itinerary by splitting your time between the Bronx, Harlem, and more iconic New York City attractions on the Upper West Side.

The Bronx, located north of Manhattan, is a diverse neighborhood known for its rich history, vibrant communities, and iconic landmarks such as the Bronx Zoo and Yankee Stadium. It also offers a range of outdoor spaces and parks.

Harlem, in northern Manhattan, played a central role in the Harlem Renaissance. The neighborhood fostered a thriving arts scene, becoming a hub for African-American intellectuals, musicians, and artists. Harlem is home to amazing cultural attractions and a vibrant culinary landscape.

The Upper West Side, located on the western side of Manhattan, exudes a residential charm and boasts iconic landmarks. There’s a relaxed atmosphere and a range of dining options, making it a popular area for visitors.

I suggest starting with an early visit to the Bronx Zoo and then getting lunch in Harlem before heading to the Upper West Side. Or take a walking tour of Harlem before a Yankee game that night! Check out more things to choose from in these iconic neighborhoods.

Things to Do in the Bronx + Harlem + the Upper West Side

• Explore the Bronx Zoo
• Visit the New York Botanical Garden
• Catch a baseball game at Yankee Stadium
• Enjoy a scenic hike at Pelham Bay Park
• Experience the food scene on Arthur Avenue, Bronx’s Little Italy

• Visit the historic Apollo Theater
• Explore the Studio Museum in Harlem
• Visit Abyssinian Baptist Church, known for its role in the civil rights movement
• Indulge in soul food and Caribbean cuisine along Malcolm X Boulevard
• Visit the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture

Upper West Side

• Spend more time exploring Central Park and its many attractions
• Visit the American Museum of Natural History
• Take a walk in Riverside Park
• Enjoy outdoor dining at a restaurant or cafe along Broadway
• Attend a concert at Beacon Theatre
• Explore the box stores, vintage shops, and boutiques along Columbus Avenue

In Conclusion, Here are My Recommendations for Planning a 3-Day NYC Itinerary

• Take the subway and leave the car at home
• Use apps like Citymapper and TodayTix to make last-minute planning easier
• Both JFK and LGA are good options for flying into New York City
• Check out attractions in Manhattan, but don’t forget about Brooklyn,the Bron, and Queens if you have time
• For safety, stay aware of your surroundings, keep belongings close, and stay in well-lit areas
• Each season offers a special experience, but be prepared to deal with the elements no matter when you visit
• Think about the weather when packing, and don’t forget good walking shoes
• Try all the food, but stay away from touristy pizza places
• Embrace being a tourist, but be safe and avoid crowded attractions if you get overwhelmed easily
• Plan on New York City is expensive, but look for all the great ways to save money
• Don’t be afraid to ask New Yorkers for help
• Stay in a central location, like Midtown Manhattan, and don’t go any further out than Park Slope or Williamsburg, Brooklyn
• 3 Days in New York is enough to see the main attractions, but 4 to 7 days will give you a more thorough experience

Wanderlust Crew

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New York City   Travel Guide

34 Best Things to Do in NYC

There are countless reasons to be mesmerized by New York, from its skyscrapers and monuments to its vibrant art, food, fashion and nightlife. Across the city, fresh perspectives are yours to be found; go for a stroll in Central Park or along the High

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Central Park Central Park free

This part-park, part-museum, part-concert hall swallows central Manhattan, and many of the city's most notable attractions are situated next to it or within its limits ( the Guggenheim , the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the American Museum of Natural History , to name a few). But travelers insist that you shouldn't just pass through Central Park on your way to another place. This 843-acre green space is a favorite of New Yorkers and tourists; you can come here to exercise, dine, go to the zoo and more.

Almost everyone has a positive impression of the park, but no one has quite the same experience or recommends that you do quite the same thing. There's an almost impossible amount of sights to see here (hidden treasures, indeed), including more than 20 playgrounds, 48 fountains, monuments or sculptures, and 30 bridges. Here's a shortlist:

National September 11 Memorial & Museum National September 11 Memorial & Museum

The National September 11 Memorial & Museum serves as the primary tribute to the nearly 3,000 victims of the 2001 terrorist attacks, as well as the six lost in the 1993 bombing. The memorial's twin reflecting pools and human-made waterfalls rest as eerie footprints where the World Trade Center's twin towers once stood. The 1-acre pools are enclosed in bronze panels on which the names of every victim are inscribed. The museum spans across 110,000 square feet and relays the narrative of the attacks through a series of multimedia displays, real-time recordings, authentic artifacts and interactive technology.

Recent visitors cited the overall atmosphere of the National September 11 Memorial & Museum as sobering and moving. Many travelers say they were impressed with the site as a whole, noting its respectful and informational displays. Reviewers say you won't want to rush your time here, with some recommending that you budget three to four hours to see all of the exhibits.

Empire State Building Empire State Building

U.S. News Insider Tip: Watch out for "sunset peak" pricing, which adds an extra $10 per ticket for two hours around sunset each evening. But on a clear day, it just might be worth it. – Elizabeth Von Tersch, Senior Editor

New York City Tourist 101 dictates that you must swing by this landmark structure in midtown Manhattan. And despite the hefty admission fees, the crowds and the long lines, recent visitors insist that you won't be sorry. In fact, taking a trip to the top of the Empire State Building is either the perfect way to begin or end your Big Apple excursion – on a clear day you'll be able to the see the city's major highlights some 1,250 feet beneath you. 

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Metropolitan Museum of Art Metropolitan Museum of Art

U.S. News Insider Tip: Come for the art, stay for the rooftop cocktails. A seasonal rooftop garden bar offers views over Central Park, which is especially coveted at sunset. The roof garden stays open into the evening on Friday and Saturday. – Jessica Colley Clarke

No museum in the United States is as celebrated as the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Spilling over with masterpieces from all over the world, including notable collections from ancient Egypt and classical antiquity, "the Met" is an art experience unlike any other, and like much in New York, it's impossible to see all the museum has to offer in one day (or even two days, for that matter). 

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Statue of Liberty is at the top of many travelers’ must-see lists. A feat of 19th-century technical engineering and a beacon for immigrants arriving at Ellis Island, the statue can be admired from several different vantage points around Manhattan, including Battery Park and the High Line . But to truly appreciate its size and significance, you’ll want to visit the statue and Ellis Island while on your NYC vacation.

The only way to access the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island is by using the official National Park Service ferry operator, Statue City Cruises. If you’re departing from the New York side, you’ll hop on a ferry at Battery Park in lower Manhattan. If you’re departing from the New Jersey side, you’ll depart from Liberty State Park in Jersey City. The ferry ride takes approximately 15 minutes.

Brooklyn Bridge Brooklyn Bridge free

One of many signature landmarks of New York City, the Brooklyn Bridge is also one of the oldest suspension bridges in the country and a National Historic Landmark. Its six lanes (and one pedestrian and bicycle walkway) span the East River, connecting Manhattan to Brooklyn. Walking across the bridge remains a tourist pastime.

Some visitors decide to skip the bridge in favor of other attractions, but if you're short on money, this truly is one of the best ways to experience the city and to get a unique view of either borough at no cost. Several reviewers warn that since there is no shade along the bridge, it can get quite hot in the summertime (though there are vendors selling bottles of water). Many also warned that it can get quite crowded, and advised visiting in the morning before 9 a.m. if you don't want to maneuver around crowds.

The High Line The High Line free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Visit early in the morning or on a weekday to avoid crowds. If you walk from north to south, add on a visit to The Standard Biergarten or the vibrant Chelsea Market for great people-watching, food and drink. – Erin Evans, Managing Editor

Set on an abandoned rail track on Manhattan's West Side, this sprawling, nearly 1½-mile-long landscaped park stretches over three of the city's most lively neighborhoods: the Meatpacking District, West Chelsea and Hell's Kitchen. Standing 30 feet above street level, the High Line offers sweeping views of the Hudson River and Manhattan's cityscape. But the vista isn't the only reason visitors and Manhattanites flock to this manicured green space. Here, you'll find continually changing public art installations, a handful of food vendors and a sprawling picnic and sunbathing area (known as the 23rd Street Lawn).

NYC Food Tours NYC Food Tours

Known for everything from cheap eats to authentic international fare to Michelin-starred restaurants, New York City is a culinary hot spot and undoubtedly one of the best foodie cities in America . However, chances are you won't have time to experience everything the city has to offer in just one trip. One way to get a taste of New York's excellent cuisine across a variety of neighborhoods is to take a food tour.

Whether you want to explore a particular borough or neighborhood, or even a specific cuisine or dish, you'll find a tour to appease your taste buds. Relying on traveler reviews and expert analysis, U.S. News rounded up the best food tours in New York City . Though tours vary in length and price, they all receive rave reviews from past travelers, who applauded the variety of food and the expert knowledge of the guides.

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Washington Square Park Washington Square Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Finding an empty bench in Washington Square Park after visiting one of the neighborhood's independent bookstores – from The Strand to Three Lives & Company to Left Bank Books – is a true lower Manhattan pleasure. – Jessica Colley Clarke

The central gathering place of Greenwich Village is Washington Square Park, an almost 10-acre green space known for its downtown buzz. Here, kids splash in the fountain, musicians perform to a crowd, artists sell sketches or photographs, and chess enthusiasts gather to challenge each other to a game. What was historically a cemetery and later a bohemian hot spot is now a neighborhood institution that draws locals and visitors alike with its kids' playground, sizable dog run and ample shady space for picnics. An arch dedicated to George Washington is the dominant architectural feature of the park. 

Broadway Broadway

U.S. News Insider Tip: Start your day with a stop at the TKTS booth in Times Square or at the Lincoln Center location to snag discounted same-day tickets for an array of Broadway and off-Broadway shows. – Catriona Kendall, Associate Editor

Some out-of-towners spend their entire New York trip at one show or another on the Broadway circuit. And if you like plays and musicals, this is where you should be: "The Great White Way" represents the heart and soul of American theater. Considering that nearby Times Square is a dizzying maze of sights and sounds with no real starting point, some visitors suggest you can see all you need to of that neighborhood just by trundling back and forth between shows. 

One World Observatory One World Observatory

Formerly known as Freedom Tower, One World Trade Center is the main building of the rebuilt World Trade Center complex in lower Manhattan. This observatory sits atop the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere and the highest point in the city. You'll find it adjacent to the 9/11 Memorial . At more than 125,000 square feet, the three-level observatory is located on the 100th, 101st and 102nd floors of this office skyscraper. Travelers enjoy the panoramic, 360-degree views, up to 45 miles in every direction on clear days. 

Visitors reach the observatory by direct express elevators known as SkyPods. The trip upward includes a visual presentation showing how New York has changed over the decades, from open land to smaller buildings to skyscrapers. The trip takes less than a minute. Expect a multimedia presentation at the top before stunning views are revealed. A restaurant and bar on the 101st floor are open to guests who have purchased tickets to the observatory. 

Grand Central Terminal Grand Central Terminal free

At this beautiful train station, you can eat some lunch or shop till you drop, but recent travelers most enjoyed just taking in the scenery. Before you enter, be sure to snap a few shots of the exterior's ornate beaux-arts neoclassical architecture. Inside the celebrated main concourse, you're treated to glimmering marble floors, gold and nickel-plated chandeliers and a sky-themed ceiling. Other must-sees include the Information Booth clock, the Whispering Gallery and Grand Central Market, a European-style food market that sells produce, gourmet ingredients and treats. Food options range from the upscale (Cipriani Dolci and The Campbell Bar) to the legendary (the Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant) to the fast and easy (Shake Shack). As mentioned, there are also plenty of shopping options, though most travelers suggest you leave most of Grand Central's pricey merchandise in the store. If you want a train-themed souvenir, visit The New York Transit Museum Store in the shuttle passage.

Travelers call the train station "iconic" and say it's a beautiful space to walk through or to grab a meal and people-watch.

Bryant Park Bryant Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: This Midtown park draws crowds for two seasonal events: summer movie nights under the stars and a holiday market complete with ice skating. For summer picnics or winter shopping sprees, Bryant Park delivers year-round. – Jessica Colley Clarke

Sprawling across nearly 10 acres, Bryant Park sits just south of Times Square – though it feels a world away. Though its lush green space has existed for more than 150 years, Bryant Park was a revitalization project of the 1990s that made it a sanctuary for locals and tourists alike. This is the preferred place for midtown Manhattan professionals to eat lunch, for fashionistas to strut during fashion week and for performers to showcase their talents during annual events like Broadway in Bryant Park and Piano in Bryant Park. If you're interested in learning more about the park's history, consider joining one of its free tours. Tours, which last 45 minutes, are free and offered every Wednesday, year-round. 

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Staten Island Ferry Staten Island Ferry free

Perhaps the most famous ferry service in the United States, the Staten Island Ferry runs daily between the Whitehall Ferry Terminal in lower Manhattan and St. George Ferry Terminal on Staten Island. The city has been operating the ferry service since 1905 and transports some 70,000 passengers across New York Harbor every day. It’s one of the last remaining vestiges of an entire ferry system that served New York City residents before the construction of any bridges.  

But the Staten Island Ferry is more than a transportation service; it’s an attraction, drawing tens of thousands of out-of-town visitors a year for a free ride across the harbor (that’s right, no charge; the service is provided by the City of New York). The 5-mile ride lasts about 25 minutes. Passengers must disembark and then reboard to make the return trip to Manhattan. Travelers remark about the views of the Statue of Liberty , Ellis Island, Manhattan skyscrapers and the bridges of lower Manhattan. 

Museum of Modern Art Museum of Modern Art

You don't have to be an art lover to appreciate the Museum of Modern Art; this airy midtown gallery also doubles as a shrine of pop culture and 20th century history.

Some of the most significant contemporary pieces hang on its walls, including Picasso's "Les Demoiselles d'Avignon," Warhol's "Campbell's Soup Cans," Van Gogh's "Starry Night," Dalí's "The Persistence of Memory," Monet's "Water Lilies," and the list goes on and on. In October 2019, the museum reopened after completing an expansion project that added more than 40,000 square feet of gallery space, as well as a performance studio that features live programming.

New York Public Library New York Public Library free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  If you love all things book-related, consider visiting The Morgan Library & Museum nearby, which features J.P. Morgan's stunning 1906 library. The museum offers free admisson (and live jazz music) on Fridays from 5 to 7 p.m. – Elizabeth Von Tersch, Senior Editor

This main library branch, officially called the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, attracts plenty of book lovers, history junkies and architecture aficionados. Most people swing by the Bryant Park landmark to say hello to Patience and Fortitude (the famous marble lions guarding the entrance) and to admire the lovely beaux-arts design.

American Museum of Natural History American Museum of Natural History

Visitors love the American Museum of Natural History off Central Park West. Whether you're exploring the interactive exhibits on the land, the sea or outer space; user reviews take on a common theme. This museum is incredible. Even the cafeteria and gift shop are worth your notice.

There are more than 34 million artifacts inside, spread across four city blocks, 26 buildings and through 45 exhibition halls, so don't plan on seeing everything in one day. The Rose Center for Earth and Space is a particular favorite, but you should also plan on visiting the dinosaurs, the Dorothy and Lewis B. Cullman Hall of the Universe and the Butterfly Conservatory (accessible November through May), which houses nearly 500 butterflies. Local experts say the institution is one of the city's can't-miss museums , especially for families.

Brooklyn Botanic Garden Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Wander along Brooklyn's Washington Avenue, and you can't avoid stumbling upon this verdant 52-acre park.

A main highlight here is the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden, punctuated by wooden bridges and Japanese maples. And if you arrive at the end of April, you can't miss the Cherry Esplanade ( Sakura Matsuri ) when rosy cherry blossoms burst into bloom. Another standout: the Shakespeare Garden, which contains more than 80 plants described in the playwright's works.

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Brooklyn Bridge Park Brooklyn Bridge Park free

Located on the Brooklyn side of the East River, Brooklyn Bridge Park is an 85-acre oasis at the foot of the famous bridge connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn. The park stretches 1.3 miles along Brooklyn’s waterfront, connecting Columbia Heights and Dumbo, an acronym for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass, an eclectic neighborhood of boutiques, trendy cafes and restaurants. Travelers rave about the views of the lower Manhattan skyline, the New York Harbor and the bridge.

Among the city’s newest parks, Brooklyn Bridge Park was once an industrial district and home to a transportation terminal that served as an entry point for immigrants. Today, the park features rolling hills, promenades, playgrounds, basketball courts, sports fields, a roller skating rink, gardens, and more among six piers and the riverfront. What’s more, the park is home to more than 12,000 species of plants and wildlife. It also hosts a variety of events and programs throughout the year, such as sunset yoga and stargazing.

The Guggenheim The Guggenheim

The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, or simply, "The Guggenheim," is one of the most well-known art museums in the country, and it's just as renowned for its cutting-edge design as it is for its pieces. The coiled building (designed by Frank Lloyd Wright) stands out on Fifth Avenue at 89th Street. Inside, the halls are chock full of works from the likes of Picasso, Cézanne, Degas, Manet and Van Gogh, among others.

Visitors loved the building's design and architecture, but offered more mixed reviews for the art on display. Some raved about the permanent collection and the special exhibitions, while others felt the cost of entrance tickets was overpriced for the amount of art displayed. Reviewers recommended the Museum of Modern Art over the Guggenheim if you're short on time. 

Off-Broadway Shows Off-Broadway Shows

Off-Broadway may not have the glitter of the Great White Way , but these smaller theaters and their productions are often innovative and are no less engaging. Unlike Broadway, these theaters are not centered around Times Square , but scattered all over Manhattan and generally seat fewer people (between 100 to 499 audience members). Smaller venues provide a more intimate experience for plays, musicals and revues. Many of New York’s most famous productions found their start off-Broadway, such as “Hair,” “Rent” and “In the Heights.”

Tickets also are more affordable, generally between $20 and $75 per person. Look for innovative productions at places like the Public Theater, Cherry Lane Theatre or Playwrights Horizons. The Signature Theatre showcases revivals and new plays.

Rockefeller Center and Top of the Rock Observation Deck Rockefeller Center and Top of the Rock Observation Deck

This iconic plaza has it all – beautiful sculptures, an enormous skating rink, a fishbowl view of NBC Studios, plus a plethora of stores and restaurants. Though undoubtedly there will be intense crowds, this is an experience that's worth having at least once. During the wintertime holidays, the plaza sparkles with an illuminated Christmas tree and skaters gliding across the ice rink. But don't fret if your New York adventure doesn't take place during the cold months. There's plenty to do year-round. If you plan ahead, you can spend a morning watching a taping of the "Today" show, an afternoon admiring the city from the Top of the Rock Observation Deck and an evening catching a performance at Radio City Music Hall .

Travelers say the Top of the Rock offers some of the best views of Manhattan and say the experience is worth every penny. Visitors recommend booking the Rock Pass ticket that includes a tour of the building and observation deck access.

Little Island Little Island free

New Yorkers have long needed to get creative to maximize space on the island of Manhattan, where space is limited. But with the opening of Little Island in 2021, that creativity stretched beyond the island's borders and into the water. Little Island is an artificial island located on the west side of Manhattan in the Hudson River.

This public park, which is free to visit, offers a new space for locals and visitors alike to immerse themselves in nature, art, free events like concerts and one of the most memorable locations in New York City to catch the sunset.

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St. Patrick's Cathedral St. Patrick's Cathedral free

This sprawling cathedral sits amid the hustle and distinctively secular bustle of Rockefeller Center . But that doesn't take away from its otherworldly vibe. Whether you're religious or just making an architectural pilgrimage, you can't help but be impressed by St. Patrick's.

Opened in 1879, the neo-Gothic cathedral spans the length of an entire city block and features 330-foot spires. Its interior is just as impressive thanks to its numerous altars, stained-glass windows, organs and imposing 9,000-pound bronze doors. The church welcomes more than 5 million visitors annually.  

Little Italy Little Italy free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Taste the best of Little Italy at C. Di Palo Wine Bar. With connections to the fine foods store serving this neighborhood for more than a century, this wine bar serves Italian cheeses, meats and wines in a comfortable, modern environment. – Jessica Colley Clarke

Once a thriving enclave of Italian immigrants, Little Italy is now a popular tourist destination (though remnants of the past remain).

Times Square Times Square free

Some say that Times Square is like a five-block metaphor for New York City itself – it's exciting, colorful and always jumping. Others describe this area of midtown Manhattan as artless, overpriced and congested. Perhaps this commercial stretch from West 42nd to West 47th streets is a little of both, and though locals would advise you to avoid it, you should at least catch a glimpse of its neon lights.

Most travelers recommend visiting the area after dark to see the marquee displays. Many add checking out Times Square before or after a Broadway show is the perfect time to fit it into your schedule. However, if you're not a fan of crowds, reviewers suggest you avoid this area altogether.

Fifth Avenue Fifth Avenue free

It's fitting that St. Patrick's Cathedral would be on the same street as stores like Bergdorf Goodman, Tiffany & Co. and Van Cleef & Arpels. That's because for many people, shopping is a religious experience, and here between 34th and 59th streets you'll find the holy grail. 

Even if you're not planning to put your credit card to work at high-end stores, travelers say a stroll along Fifth Avenue is a must. It's one of the top places to shop in the city, according to local experts. Plus, during the winter holidays, the street is decked out in festive decor.

Bronx Zoo Bronx Zoo

According to travelers, these 265 acres sheltering more than 10,000 animals should be near the top of every young family's itinerary in New York. And if you're an older visitor, the Bronx Zoo could be a great way to escape the nonstop activity in Manhattan. This zoo's claim to fame is that it's one of the largest metropolitan animal parks in the country. It's also one of the best zoos in the U.S . Originally opened at 1899, the zoo also houses several famous landmarks, including the Rainey Memorial Gates, the Rockefeller Fountain and the historic Zoo Center, which was constructed to look like a palace.

Among the zoo's popular exhibits is JungleWorld, which aims to recreate the jungles of Asia with animals like white-cheeked gibbons, gharials, tapirs, fruit bats and more. There's also the Wild Asia Monorail, a seasonal outdoor monorail that allows visitors to observe animals like rhinos, tigers and red pandas roaming freely in the outdoor habitat. Other star attractions include the Congo Gorilla Forest, the seasonal butterfly garden, Tiger Mountain and the Children's Zoo. Along with the animals, there are also several rides and experiences, such as a carousel and sea lion feedings.

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Apollo Theater Apollo Theater

U.S. News Insider Tip: Go to BLVD Bistro on 116th St. before or after your visit to the Apollo. They serve breakfast all day and literally have the best grits and pancakes I have ever had in my life. It is also Black-owned! – Lawrence Phillips, founder and CEO of Green Book Global

One of the most famous music halls in the United States, "the Apollo" started as a burlesque theater in 1914. By the 1930s, it transformed into a concert hall that helped launch the career of several black musicians. A then-unknown Ella Fitzgerald, Michael Jackson (with the Jackson 5) and Stevie Wonder all performed on the Apollo stage during an Amateur Night competition. If you're in Harlem on a Wednesday you can still go to Amateur Night, an experience some previous travelers highly recommend.

Metropolitan Opera House Metropolitan Opera House

Stroll through the courtyard of the Metropolitan Opera House even if you're not going inside for a performance. Every element of this opulent building – from the limestone architecture, to the lobby's glittering chandelier, to the acoustics in the concert hall – is gorgeous. Travelers call this opera house a feast for the eyes and ears. Tickets are notoriously expensive (as much as several hundred dollars for the best seats), but the sticker shock evaporates quickly if you're into performing arts. You can try to score a same-day ticket at a discounted rate, plus there are discounts for senior citizens.

The Metropolitan Opera House features spring performances by the American Ballet Theatre and fall and winter performances by the Met Opera Company. Showtimes and ticket prices vary by performance and seating, so check the Met Opera's website for additional details. You'll find the opera house at Lincoln Center Plaza on Manhattan's Upper West Side – take the 1 train to 66th Street.

Radio City Music Hall Radio City Music Hall

It's where Ella Fitzgerald pined for the man she loved, the Rolling Stones couldn't get no satisfaction and Lady Gaga had a "Bad Romance." Among performers, there's no New York concert venue that's quite like Radio City Music Hall. Not only is it the largest indoor theater in the world, its marquee spans a full city block. Opened in 1932, the theater is a New York City Landmark. Today, the theater welcomes musical performers like Ben Platt and Lil Nas X, as well as comedians like Chris Rock.

If you're in town any dates between November and January, consider attending the famous Radio City Christmas Spectacular, which stars the Rockettes. According to recent visitors who attended a show, there's not a bad seat in the house.

The Battery The Battery free

The Battery is a 25-ace park that sits at the very southern tip of Manhattan Island and offers a green respite from the steel and concrete of lower Manhattan. The park, named after artillery batteries that protected the settlement in the 17th century, is popular with visitors because of its views of the harbor and the Statue of Liberty . 

The park is home to perennial gardens, bike paths, grand lawns, an urban farm and a unique carousel, known as the SeaGlass Carousel. On the carousel, riders sit within iridescent fish and glide through a 360-degree aquatic adventure. The carousel’s bioluminescent design honors the waterfront site as well as another landmark, the Castle Clinton, one of the country’s earliest aquariums. 

Coney Island Coney Island

Known as the "the People's Playground," this famous amusement area in Brooklyn has an illustrious past. In the early 1900s, Coney Island enticed New Yorkers to visit with its bathing pavilions, seaside resorts and amusement park. The Great Depression took its toll on the fun-loving spot, causing many attractions to close. But after years of economic instability, Coney Island has reclaimed its place on the Brooklyn map, with a fresh roster of eateries and entertainment (including a July Fourth hot dog-eating contest and an annual Mermaid Parade ) found along the boardwalk. Coney Island now features several separate amusement parks, as well as a museum, which hosts a variety of exhibits and shows.

According to recent visitors, Coney Island is a worthwhile trip in the summer if you have the time and are traveling with young kids who would enjoy the rides. If you're not up for indulging your inner thrill-seeker, you can also walk along the beach, which spans nearly 3 miles and features several sports courts, as well as playgrounds. A walk along the iconic Riegelmann Boardwalk is just as memorable, according to recent visitors.

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Chrysler Building Chrysler Building free

Technically, the Chrysler Building is an office building open Monday through Friday, but you don't need to go inside to appreciate its aesthetic appeal. Recent visitors praised the building's unique architectural style (though a few wished you could still go inside to admire its intricate lobby and elevators).

Built in 1930, the Chrysler had a short-lived run as the tallest building in the city, before it was usurped of its title by the Empire State Building . Nevertheless, this 1,046-foot-high skyscraper remains a favorite among New Yorkers for its classic art deco style. And unlike the Empire State, at this site you won't need an expensive entry ticket, a strong stomach to stand soaring heights or patience for long lines to see what all the fuss is about. You can behold the building's menacing gargoyles and triangular openings from many spots in Manhattan. Though the lobby is currently closed to visitors, there have been talks of building an observation deck, though none is available at this time.

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Plan, Ready, Go®

1 Day in NYC: Must-do’s for First-timers + Interactive Map

Only have one day in New York ? Maximize your visit with my itinerary created especially for NYC first-time visitors . I have visited New York City several times. During my last two trips, I was accompanied by people visiting for the first time.

I recommend spending at least four days in NYC . However, even one day can give you a taste of this top travel destination.

Key Things to Know

• Don’t miss the Statue of Liberty, the 9/11 Memorial, or Central Park for a mix of history and iconic landmarks.
• Maximize your time by using the subway for faster (cheap) travel between Manhattan’s attractions. Or walk!
• This itinerary is completely customizable to your particular interests and the exact amount of time you have in New York City.

This post includes affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.  See disclaimer.

One day in New York itinerary 

9/11 memorial (and museum).

9/11 Memorial | Closest subway stops: WTC–Cortland St (1) and Cortland Street (R, W)  

Start your day by spending your morning in Lower Manhattan. 

In my opinion, your one-day NYC itinerary should absolutely include the 9/11 Memorial. It’s one of my favorite free things to do in New York City .   

The terrorist attack on Sept. 11, 2001, which destroyed the Twin Towers, forever changed the city and the United States. In fact, it’s one of the most moving and beautiful memorials that I have ever had the privilege of seeing. The 9/11 Memorial typically is open to the public all day every day. 

Optional: The 9/11 Memorial Museum is at the same location. Though I haven’t had the privilege of seeing it, I’ve heard great things. There is a charge for admission to the museum.

Statue of Liberty 

Ferry from Manhattan departs from Battery Park | Subway stops: South Ferry Station (1), Whitehall Street (R), Bowling Green (4, 5)  

In my opinion, your New York City itinerary must include the Statue of Liberty, my absolute favorite place in the city.

Buy your tickets ahead of time onlin e, especially if you want to climb up to the crown. When available, those tickets can sell out weeks or even months in advance.    

Even if you don’t want to go up onto the pedestal or the crown of the Statue of Liberty, you can purchase a general admission ticket to enjoy the cruise over to Liberty Island (with great views of both Lady Liberty and Lower Manhattan). You can visit the new museum and walk around the monument’s exterior.

 If you only have a day in New York I recommend skipping a visit to Ellis Island even though it’s included in your ticket. 

More things to do on a day trip to New York City

• Explore NYC with a sightseeing helicopter tour over Manhattan .
• Pay a visit to the top of One World Observatory with this skip-the-line ticket .
• If you’re staying the night in New York, consider this sunset cruise in New York Harbor.

TRAVEL TIP: If you have flexible travel dates you need to check out Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights). You get amazing flight deals sent straight to your inbox with instructions on how to book directly with the airlines. Check out Going here. Going is my favorite way to find great travel deals. 

Lunch options: where to eat 

By the time you finish your visit to the Statue of Liberty, you’ll likely be ready for a bite to eat. The Crown Café offers a wide variety of burgers, salads, and sandwiches. Their menu includes vegetarian options as well as several items that can be made gluten-free upon request. 

Battery Park (where you’ll disembark from your cruise to Liberty Island) is a great picnic spot. You can grab a cheap lunch from a food truck or assemble a picnic from a nearby market.

If a restaurant is more what you’re looking for, wander into the Financial District where you’ll find a variety of popular eateries for all budgets. 

TIP: Keep track of all of your important travel details with a digital travel planner like this .

Empire State Building 

20 West 34 Street | Subway stop: 34 St–Herald Square (B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W), 33 St (M)  

Many believe visiting the Empire State Building is a must on their trip to New York City.

I will admit right now that in all my NYC trips, I’ve only ever admired this iconic structure from the ground.  I do not like heights, nor do I generally pay money to stand atop them. But you who are not afraid of heights can go as high as the 102nd floor. The main observation deck is on the 86th floor.   

Time-saving tip: Upgrade your Empire State Building ticket to get skip-the-line access.

As an alternative, save the Empire State Building for after dinner, or even enjoy dinner at the State Grill and Bar.  

Times Square 

Subway stop: Times Square–42 Street (N, Q, R, S, W, 1, 2, 3, 7)   

You’ve seen it in movies and TV shows. Of all the places to visit in New York City, it’s hard to think of anything else that’s more New York than Times Square. Soak it in, take a few photos, and wander through so you can say you’ve been there (it’s great at night also). Maybe even buy a cheap souvenir T-shirt or stop in at M&M’s World.  

Times Square is just a 15-minute walk from the Empire State Building.  

Rockefeller Center 

Between 49th and 51st Streets between Fifth and Sixth Avenues | Subway stop: 47-50 Streets Rockefeller Center (B, D, F, M), 49 Street (N, R, W)  

A 10-minute walk from Times Square will take you to Rockefeller Center. It’s a New York City landmark that includes 30 Rockefeller Plaza (NBC Studios), Radio City Music Hall, and more.

In addition to some great shopping and dining, you can take a guided tour of Rockefeller Center, go to the Top of the Rock Observation Deck , skate at the Rink, and more.     

If you’re feeling snackish, I recommend stopping at Magnolia Bakery for something yummy.  

Grab your Top of the Rock ticket here.

Central Park 

From North 110th Street to Central Park South (59th Street), and from Central Park West (8th Avenue) to 5th Ave | Subway stops: There are several subway stops around the perimeter of the park including 5th Ave/59 Street (N, R, W), 59 Street/Columbus Circle (A, B, C, D, 1), Central Park North (2, 3), and 6 stops on the west side of the park.  

Central Park is so quintessentially New York that you absolutely need to make time in your itinerary to see it even if only spending one day in New York.

Now, keep in mind that this park is huge. I mean it. Central Park covers 1.3 square miles (840 acres) of Manhattan. You could easily spend an entire day just exploring this place.  

To start I’d suggest looking at a map of the park and choosing a few things you want to see. This might be the Central Park Zoo, the Alice in Wonderland Statue, Belvedere Castle, or the Conservatory Water (where you can rent a model boat to sail on the pond).   

The southeast corner of Central Park is just a 15-minute walk from Rockefeller Center. If you want to walk all the way to the Conservatory Water and the Alice in Wonderland Statue, expect a walk of closer to 30 minutes.

Time-saving Tip: Instead of walking to Central Park from Rockefeller Center, jump in a NYC cab.

Interactive map

Click on the yellow pins on the map below to see more information about each stop on your itinerary. To see this map in your Google account just tap on the little star next to the map name.

Ways to modify this itinerary

With only one day in NYC, there are an incredible number of ways you could spend your time. Here are a few ways you could modify this one-day itinerary to fit your particular interests. It’s important that you get to see the things you want.

• Take the subway to Brooklyn then walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, enjoying your view of the Manhattan skyline.
• Enjoy a tour of either or both of two of the premier art museums in the world, The Metropolitan Museum of Art and/or the Museum of Modern Art.
• Explore Greenwich Village, Soho, and other iconic neighborhoods.
• End your day with a Broadway show.

Short half-day itinerary for NYC

Even if you don’t have a full day or 24 hours to spend in New York City, you can still see a few of the major highlights. Here are a few options:

• Focus on one area such as Lower Manhattan, grabbing a view of Brooklyn Bridge, followed by the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, and the 9/11 Memorial & Museum.
• Explore the Empire State Building, Times Square, and Rockefeller Center, and then stroll up to Central Park if time allows.
• Get the best of New York’s top art museums at The Met, the Museum of Modern Art, and the Guggenheim.

New York 1-day tours

Want to see the best of New York in a day, but rather leave the planning to someone else? Leave the planning to an expert tour guide.

• Pack the very best of NYC into one day with this highly rate expert guided tour . See New York’s major landmarks in only 6 hours.
• Go beyond Manhattan’s major tourist sites with this tour of Brooklyn, the Bronx, Queens, Harlem, and Coney Island .

Where to stay

If you’re thinking about spending more than a day in New York, you might be overwhelmed by the many hotel options.

Here are my recommendations for where to stay in New York City: 

• Hyatt Place Midtown South (52 West 36th Street): We loved staying at this hotel. It’s just two blocks from the Empire State Building and just around the corner from the 34th Street – Herald Square subway stop. Book Now  
• For a more boutique-style accommodation try Archer Hotel New York (45 West 38th Street). Book Now

How to get around

I say this so often, but I will continue to say it over and over: use your feet and the subway.

I’m serious about the subway. You’ll get where you want to go cheaper than Uber or taxis and of course much faster than walking especially when traveling from one area of Manhattan to another.  You can find subway maps on the MTA website .

Taxis are a fine option for getting around New York City especially if you are in a time crunch or are going someplace that just doesn’t have an easy subway route or a nearby stop.

The bottom line

There are so many amazing things you could fill your day with in NYC that you can’t possibly see as much as you would like, BUT you can see the best of the best. From historical monuments to stunning views from the best observatories in the world, you almost can’t go wrong with how you spend your day here.

More articles about New York

• The essential overnight packing list
• Free things to do in NYC
• Must-do things in New York for first-timers
• The top day trips from NYC
• Scenic drives in New York state

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Darcy Vierow is a busy professional and travel planning expert with years of experience maximizing travel with limited time and on a less-than-average salary. Her tips have been published by Forbes, MSN.com, Yahoo! News, Yahoo! Finance, Aol, Newsbreak and GOBankingRates. Read more about Darcy Vierow .

Can’t wait great job

Great article, Darcy! You have prepared an amazing one-day itinerary for people vising NYC along with some great tips to commute within the city. Subways are indeed the best way to get around the whole city. However, if the time permits, why not go sailing as well? After seeing the city on foot all day, one can relax on a sailboat and enjoy the skyline. Several companies offer rental for 2-3 hours including sunset cruises overlooking Manhattan. Book beforehand to get the best deals.

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4 Days in New York Itinerary: Ultimate NYC Guide by a Local

4 Days in New York Itinerary

Table of Contents

Even though I grew up 50 miles outside of NYC (and now live there) and took every chance to explore it, I still have so much on my New York City bucket list. This 4 Days in New York itinerary will help you pack in a ton in just a short amount of time!

This guide is broken down by day and includes tips on where to stay, what to do and most importantly, where to eat and drink! Make sure you’re prepared with excellent walking shoes and check out the New York City Pass for the best value access to over 100 New York attractions. It’s an easy way to save money during your days in New York.

New York City Travel Tips

• Currency: American Dollars
• Language: English
• Best time to go: April, June, September, December(the Holidays are magical)
• Electric: 120V, Plug type A
• Drive on the right side of the road.
• Tap water is safe to drink.
• Tipping: 12-20% is typical at restaurants.
• Don’t be afraid of the subway – get an app to help you, like city mapper or use google maps!
• If you stay in an outer borough, make sure you stay near a convenient subway station .
• To prevent looking like a tourist : Don’t stop on the streets for people trying to sell you tickets or make you watch their dance sequence.

What to Pack for 4 Days in New York City

What to pack for New York will vary depending on what time of the year you go. NYC gets all 4 seasons so what you pack for December will be different than what you pack for July. Always check the weather before you trip and don’t worry if you forget something, there’s so much shopping in New York, you’ll be able to buy what you need and then some.

What you’ll always need for a New York itinerary:

• A camera to capture all of your best New York moments!
• A cute day bag if you don’t want to make any trips back to the hotel. And this doesn’t mean you should carry a purse as well. Go with just one cute bag to look more city chic.
• Jeans.. because jeans are life.
• Comfortable shoes for walking, but please don’t where gym shoes, fashion sneakers are okay. My converse and adidas are my go to shoes.
• Shoes for going out.
• One nice outfit if you dine or drink anywhere fancy. Some clubs or old school establishments may have a dress code.
• A layering sweater. (even in summer you might need a light sweater for while you’re inside in the A.C. or if the temperature drops in the evening)

Top of the Rock

How to get to New York City

Fly, bus, train or even cruise into New York City.

Fly into NYC

There are 3 major airports in/close to New York City with the addition of Stewart Airport a bit further. All of these airports have public transportations in the city. Sometimes these airports can be a nightmare so just stay on your toes. JFK and Laguardia are both under construction which can make your life difficult so know where you are going. Please realize that the below travel times are estimations.

• JFK   Airport – Takes about 1 hour to get to Penn station via public transportation and from Penn Station you have plenty of transfer options.
• Laguardia Airport – Takes 45 minutes to get to Grand Central or Penn Station on public transportation. Both stations have a ton of different transfer options.
• Newark Airport – This airport is just over the river in NJ. It takes about 40 minutes to get to Penn Station on public transportation .
• Stewart Airport- If for some reason you are flying into Stewart airport you need to coordinate with the NYC Express Bus . Purchase your tickets in advance and board with mobile ticket.  Journey time to Port Authority in Manhattan is approximately 90 minutes.

The major Bus Station in NYC is Port Authority. It’s located in Midtown West next to Times Square.  You can connect to subway stations A, C, E , N, Q, R, W, 1, 2, 3, and 7 trains, as well as the shuttle to  Grand Central Terminal. Don’t be mistaken, the shuttle or S is a train, not a bus.

The main train stations in NYC are NY Penn Station and Grand Central Terminal. Both are located in Midtown. Be careful when you are purchasing your ticket that you don’t mistake Newark Penn Station for NY Penn Station because Newark is in New Jersey.

Brooklyn Bridge

How to get around new york city.

Google maps will tell you all of the different way to get around the city and you can use it right on your phone! The Subway is the most popular form of travel for locals and is typically the fastest!

• Walk!  I love to walk everywhere I can. There is always so much to see so when possible this is my favourite way to get around.
• Uber/Lyft is definitely your friend. Although not always cheaper than taxis, at least you know what you’re paying for. I find this much easier with groups because you decide you want to pay the price or not instead of just watching the meter.  You will need to be careful at busy times like rush hour or when it’s raining for price surges.
• Taxis   are personally not my favorite because if you get stuck in traffic the fare will just keep going up. Once you sit in the taxi you’ve already spent $2.50. Taking taxis in NYC can deplete your spending money pretty darn quickly.
• The Subway/Bus   is not always perfect but for the price it really is terrific.  A subway or bus ride costs $2.75 to get anywhere. You could literally go from the Upper West Side to Brooklyn or from Queens to the Seaport for the same low price of $2.75. It will definitely help you fit more into your 4 days in New York City itinerary.
• The Ferry system. Yes, you heard me NYC has a ferry system! This is a wonderful option to stay above ground and see the city from the water for the same price as a subway ride. If the weather is nice it’s like a free cruise!

If you’re in NYC for a week you can buy an unlimited 7 day subway/bus pass for $33 . Even if you’re only doing 4 days in NYC it’s probably still worth it as I’m sure you will take the subway or bus more than 12 times.

Where to Stay

You’ll want to stay somewhere central to everything you want to see in your 4 days in NYC, especially if it’s your first time in New York. I’d suggest somewhere in midtown or lower Manhattan verses Brooklyn because it will make it more convenient. With that being said, some of my favorite hotels are in downtown Manhattan and Brooklyn.

If you have your heart set on an outer burrow,  just make sure the hotel in close to a convenient subway station!

Hotels in New York City

People love to ask for a “cheap” hotel, but those really don’t exist and if they do you probably don’t want to stay in them! However, there are some budget options! These are a few of the most popular hotels for each price range.

• Pod Times Square
• The Jane Hotel
• Moxy Downtown
• Freehand Hotel
• The Nomad Hotel
• Gramercy Park Hotel
• 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge

Must Try Foods during while in New York

When you think of New York you must think of all the food! For instance, we are most famous for our pizza, bagels and burgers along with plenty of international cuisines. If you’re spending 4 days in NYC you’ll definitely be able to fit a few of these delicious locations into your 4 days in NYC itinerary!

Where to eat Pizza in New York

If you fail to eat pizza during you 4 days in NYC, you’ve gone terribly wrong. Oh and please don’t waste your pizza calories on dollar slices or Sbarros, please!!

• Artichoke Pizza for the most decadent slice of well, artichoke pizza. No red sauce on this slice just creamy artichoke sauce.
• Joe’s Pizza for your classic New York slice.
• Prince Street Pizza serves a perfect square pepperoni slice.

Where to eat Bagels in New York

Bagels are my kryptonite. What can I say, I’m a total carb fanatic. There’s nothing like a fresh, still-warm bagel with cream cheese. Drool.

• Ess-a-bagel for old school bagels. Choose from dozens of cream cheese flavours, smoked fish or reuben.
• Russ & Daughters is a Jewish bakery and cafe best known for bagels with lox.

Where to eat Pastrami in New York

• Katz Deli is the spot for the best pastrami you’ll ever have. It’s a little intimidating walking in here. When you enter the deli  you actually walk through a turnstile. You get on line at one of the “cutters” who are standing behind a raised counter and tell them what you want. The sandwich is $25 but you can probably share it, they give you a ton of meat with 2 pickles on the side.

Where to eat a Burger New York City

Whether you’re in the mood for a classic burger, or something with a twist, New York has got you covered.

• Emmy Squared for the best burger in NYC. Two dry aged beef patties in a pretzel bun. The most refined meat you will ever eat. The quality of the meat and richness coupled with the toppings make you savor every bite.
• Raoul’s for a French take on the burger. They only serve 12 a day and you must be sitting at the bar. Arrive when the bar opens at 5:00 to snag your seat. They start taking food orders at 5:30.
• Shake Shack is the best fast food burger in my opinion. Go to the original location at Madison Square Park which has outdoor seating only and a view of the Flatiron Building.

Where to eat Pasta

• Bar Pitti is a classic spot for home made pasta and Italian favourites in a casual setting. They don’t take reservations which I kind of love. The first time I went here I ended up sitting next to Uma Thurman! The specials are a big portion of the options, so pay attention to those!

Where to go for Coffee

New Yorkers take their caffeine seriously, so it’s no wonder there are plenty of cute places to have a coffee .

• Felix Roasting Co . has a regal and glam feel to it. A temporary escape from the streets of New York.
• Maman is a french chic cafe that gives you all the best vibes.
• Remi Flower and Coffee is one of my favorite places to grab a cup of joe. The setting inside a flower shop is lovely.

New York Itinerary: Day 1. Uptown Manhattan + Central Park + Times Square

Central park walking tour.

Start off day one at Central Park. Loeb Boat House, Bethsheda Fountain, Bow Bridge and Alice and Wonderland statue are all quite close to each other which makes it easy to see them all at once.  They are also some of the best photos spots in Central Park.   You can enter on East 72nd Street to see them all.

• Loeb Boat House – The row boats are seasonal and only open from 10 until sundown. I’ve gone there for about 11:30 and didn’t have to wait too long. The row boats are $15 for 1 hour plus a $20 deposit. CASH ONLY
• Bethsheda Fountain is a beautiful fountain with 2 sweeping staircases on either side. You’ll definitely recognize this spots from the movies!
• Bow Bridge is another classic spot. It’s a cast iron bridging acting as a connection between the two sides of the lake.
• Alice and Wonderland Statue comes straight out of the Lewis Carrol storybook. A bronze statue of the characters Alice, the white rabbit and the Mad Hatter.
• Belvedere Castle is somewhat of a hidden gem, even though it was created in 1872.  You can get a view of the The Great Lawn from the observation deck.

Subway Stations closest to Central Park include West 92nd St. (B, C),  East 92nd St.(Q, M, R),  West 86th St.(1,2),  East 86th St. (4,5,6, Q) West 81st St. (B, C), West 72nd St. (B,C)East 77th St. (4,5,6), 59th St. Colombus Circle(1,2,3),  57th St./7th Ave (N,Q,R,W), 57th St. (F), 5th Ave/59th St. (N,W,R).

Food near Central Park

Food inside the park consists mainly of take away vendors selling hot dogs or pretzels. The two sit down restaurants are  Loeb Boat House and Tavern on the Green both of which are classic American restaurants with a mid range to high end price point and atmosphere.  This is a common theme for many of the restaurants surrounding Central Park. Obviously, if none of the above suit   your taste it may be worth grabbing bagels and snacks before you enter the park. There happens to be a handy food market at Colombus Circle called Turnstyle Underground Market with a variety of to-go options.

Must Visit Museums

• The Met (Upper East Side) or Metropolitan Museum of Art has a $25 admission Fee.  Located on the Eastside of the park. If you plan on doing many of the top attractions and museums it may be worth purchasing the New York City Pass . Fast travel option at many locations to skip the line!
• National History Museum (Upper West Side) Entrance to the museum is on a “pay as you wish” basis. This museum is located on the west side of the park.
• MoMa   (Midtown) or the Museum of Modern Art.

Times Square + Broadway Show

Can you really spend 4 days in New York without seeing Times Square and a Show?! I like going to Times Square at dusk because it’s amazing to watch the lights come alive, however it will be very busy around this time. If you are planning on seeing a show You can prebook your tickets or take a chance at the discount ticket booth in the middle of Times Square.

New York Itinerary :  Day 2. Midtown Manhattan + Grand Central + Empire State Building

Start off day 2 of your 4 days in New York with a walking tour in midtown.   It’s a great way to get your bearings and learn some interesting facts about New York City. There are so many options to consider from history tours to food tours or very niche ones like a Superhero tour. An additional option is to do a self guided tour with the help of this NYC itinerary. I’ve listed these New York itinerary locations in the order from North to South.

Radio City Music Hall

Radio City Music Hall is a performance venue where you can see a variety of shows. From the famous Rockettes in the Christmas Spectacular to comedy performances to musicals.

Rockefeller Center

Rockefeller Center is home to Top of the Rock Observation deck and ice skating rink. This is the where the Rockefeller Tree is housed every holiday season. Millions of people flock to New York City during the holidays to take part in this tradition as well as others.

Grand Central Station

A walk through Grand Central Station is a must during your New York itinerary! This massive commuter hub has a gorgeous main hall with a starry blue sky. Restaurants and bars are scattered through out the terminal including the classic Cipriani, Grand Central Oyster Bar and The Campbell Bar.

Empire State Building or   Top of the Rock

Choose between the Empire State Building or the Top of the Rock for an amazing view. Both are expensive but it’s the kind of thing everyone should see once. However, I don’t think you need to do both. The Empire State building just had a massive renovation but if you want to actually see the Empire State Building in your view than the top of the Rock is a better option. If you don’t feel like spending the money on either of these, you can always opt for a cocktail at one of the many rooftop bars.

Madison Square Park

Madison Square Park is one of the prettiest areas in Manhattan and one of my favourite locations to take photos. It’s home to original Shake Shack and has a perfect view of the Flatiron Building. Eataly is across the street if you’re in the mood for seasonal Italian. Serra Birreria in Eataly is a seasonally themed rooftop popular with tourists.

Chelsea Market has a ton of artisan shops and food. Shop at Artists & Fleas then grab a lobster roll at the Lobster Place. The Highline  is one of the most incredible urban parks in the world, and somewhere that both locals and tourists enjoy. The elevated park is 1.45 miles long on the West side and built on an old train path.  This is a FREE attraction. My favourite part of the Highline is actually right near Chelsea market. Enter the Highline on 16th street for some epic photo spots.

Chelsea Galleries

So many galleries in Chelsea, this could be a whole other day in New York. Check out the Chelsea Galleries exhibitions listing for ideas.

Hudson yards

Hudson Yards is the newest neighborhood in NYC. This is where you can see the Vessel. At the moment it doesn’t cost anything to visit the Vessel, but you have to book a ticket. Some tickets for the Vessel are kept for release on the day so i f you can’t book in advance make sure to get there early.

Hudson Yards also has a huge shopping mall with designer stores, and the Jacob Javits Center.

See a sports game in the  evening for the ultimate NYC atmosphere.

What’s more New York than a ball game? Depending on the season, you can add one of these sports games to your NYC itinerary. Don’t underestimate how much the temperature can drop at night, sometimes even in the summer. You’ll want to pack at least a light sweater with you.

• Mets of Yankees (baseball) – From late March/early April through late September/early October.
• Knicks (basketball) – From October through April.
• Rangers (hockey) – From October through April.
• Jets or Giants (football) – From September through December.

New York Itinerary: Day 3. Lower Manhattan, Financial District and Statue of Liberty

It took me so long to explore all the way downtown Manhattan including Tribeca, Wall Street, and the Seaport, but now I really enjoy it! I don’t remember ever going to Ellis island or Liberty island, but I’ve put it on the top of my summer list!

Tribeca or “triangle below canal street” is a neighborhood with a different vibe. It’s a quieter and more family friendly location than most Manhattan neighborhoods located all the way on the West side.

Form this area there is easy access to Pier 25 which has a mini golf course, park and Grand Banks, a bar on a stationary boat!

Financial District

The Financial District in New York is actually one of the more confusing locations to navigate in Manhattan with many more short, broken streets than it’s midtown counterpart.

• The Oculus is a mall and transport hub with a striking modern design.
• The 9/11 Memorial
• One World Trade Center +  One World Observatory 
• 11 Wall Street is the address of the New York Stock Exchange, but the Wall Street district is 8 blocks wide.
• The Charging Bull is a very popular photo spot so you may have to wait in line to snap your pic.

South Street Seaport

The Seaport District is a historic and seriously cute part of Manhattan. There are restaurants, shopping and experiences going on year round.

Statue of Liberty

From Battery City Park on the tip of Lower Manahattan you can take a ferry right over to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island . Ferry tickets are $19.25 per adult and there is no extra fee for pedestal access. You get two for one with this tour to the Liberty Island and Ellis Island!

Happy hour drinks in Financial District

Spend happy hour with the New Yorkers who work in the financial district. Get in before the crowds to grab a seat at the bar.

• Stone Street is a pedestrian cobblestone street in the financial district.
• Dead Rabbit is must visit bar consistently winning best bar in the world.

New York Itinerary: Day 4. Downtown Manhattan + Brooklyn

End your 4 days in NYC with a trip downtown and then over to Brooklyn. I’ve added Brooklyn to the list because it really has become so popular. Gone are the days that a trip to New York means only visiting Manhattan. If you only have 4 days in NYC it’s difficult to explore the other boroughs too much, but squeezing in Dumbo and Williamsburg is totally doable for your New York itinerary.

Downtown NYC

If you’re feeling up for it, downtown is another great location for a walking tour . It’s a very diverse area of  NYC and is where the best food is! I’ve listed some notable places to eat here but obviously there are soo many more.

• Maman is a french chic cafe.
• Russ & Daughters is the go-to spot for bagels and lox.
• Butcher’s Daughter is a tasty healthy cafe joint.
• Katz Deli is known for ultimate pastrami sandwich in an old school setting.
• Raoul’s is a classic french New York institution.
• Emmy Squared has the best burger in NYC.
• Balthazar is an iconic French brasserie.
• Momofuku Noodle Bar by David Chang.

West Village/ Greenwich Village

The West Village is trendy area for clubs and restaurants. Home to the  “Meatpacking District” a popular clubbing area, as well as Washington Square Park, IFC Center, The Stonewall Inn and Smalls Jazz Club.

• The Garret is a speakeasy behind a Five Guys! It can get crowded, but it’s worth a try for this secret location.
• Wilfie and Nell
• Village Tavern is a whole in the wall dive bar.
• Dante NYC opened it’s doors in 1915 and has been a class New York establishment for years.

Lower East Side or LES

The Lower East side is one of the most electric areas in NYC. I like it’s grit and mix. There are certainly some iffy looking establishments, especially in Alphabet city.

Soho is where the fashion crowds hang out. Designer stores and trendy bars fill the streets. Artists & Fleas, The Apple Store and MoMa Design Store, Pearl Street Market are some of the most notable.

• Sweet and Vicious is great for frozen margaritas and outdoor space.
• The Backroom NYC is a prohibition style bar serving cocktails in cute tea cups.

Little Italy/ Chinatown

Known for hand pulled noodles, bubble tea and Canal street shopping. If you’re looking for a great rooftop try the Crown at 50 Bowery.

• The Crown at 50 Bowery  is a rooftop with one of the coolest downtown views in Manhattan.
• Peachy’s is a chic lounge under a Chinese restaurant.

The Tenement Museum

The Tenement Museum is a really cool and lesser known Museum amongst tourists. It’s where you can learn about the immigration and migration to NYC through apartment and walking tours. Super informative and unique!

Take a walk over the Brooklyn Bridg e from Lower Manhattan to Brooklyn. I like to do this myself every few months! It will take you about 1 hour to walk over the bridge. Please don’t walk in the bike lane, you will get yelled at by commuters!

You’ll have the option of seeing the Brooklyn Bridge and the entire skyline when you get to the other side and explore the Dumbo area.

• T ime Out Market – Hand selected food joints by the editors of Time Out Magazine all under one roof.
• Washington Street Vantage Point – Arguably one the most Instagrammable  places in NYC.
• Amazing views of Manhattan Skyline line this part of Brooklyn. You need to get out of Manhattan to truly see it all!

Williamsburg

As you may have heard, Williamsburg is one of the trendiest neighbourhoods in Brooklyn. Places like the Brooklyn Brewery, Smorgasburg, vintage stores and plenty of bars and restaurants will keep you busy for the rest of your day and night! Here are a few notable bars and restaurants in Williamsburg .

• Pies and Thighs serves, you guessed it, fried chicken and delicious pies!
• Eat at Sunday in Brooklyn for super popular brunch. Yummy dishes like their Sunday Pancakes or Crispy Fried Chicken.
• Go to Maison Premiere for oyster happy hour.
• The Bedford has one of the best burgers ever. It’s made with a mac and cheese bun!
• Skinny Dennis is a live music bar and one of my favorites in all of NYC for its super casual vibe.
• The Knitting Factory is another live music venue.  The bar and the stage areas are separated by glass so you can easily grab a  drink with a friend and be able to hear them talk while keeping and eye on the performance and still be
• Freehold serves coffee, cocktails and beats wit ha living room like and an outdoor space.
• The Water Tower at the Williamsburg Hotel has uncompromised skyline views of Manhattan.
• The Woods is great for dancing and tacos.

Evening Activities to add to your NYC itinerary:

• See a sports game – Baseball, Hockey, Basketball or Football game depending on the time of year.
• Go to a Broadway Show
• See a Comedy Show
• See Live Music
• Rooftop Bars- Typically open air rooftops open sometime in May.

Alternative New York itinerary ideas:

Other activities for 4 days in nyc:.

• Attend a live taping
• Explore filming locations.
• Take a food tour
• Roosevelt Island is a great spot to visit in the spring when the cherry blossoms are in season.  Make it an adventure by travelling across on the cable cars from Second Ave and East 60th St. Use your Metrocard just like you would for the subway.
• Astoria is the trendiest part of Queens right now, known for it’s Greek food!
• Flushing has the second biggest Chinatown in NYC and it’s definitely a place for foodies.
• Long Island City is an up and coming area with quite a few good breweries to check out! MoMa PS 1 is also here which hosts music events in the summer. Head to East River Park for a view of Manhattan.
• The Rockaways are home to the best of NYC’s beaches. The best way to get here is by taking the ferry! Jacob Riis Park is one of my favorite spots because of the other amenities and food on offer.
• Greenpoint is a great alternative to Williamsburg because it’s still a little under the radar. Try hanging out on the Barge if its a nice day.
• Prospect Park has plenty of events like Smorgasburg and Prospect Park Soiree.
• Coney island is a classic boardwalk and seaside neighborhood with the famous Cyclone Rollercoaster and Nathan’s hotdogs.

Staten Island

• Taking the Staten Island Ferry is free and you’ll be able to get a glimpse of the Statue of Liberty.

Check out Get Your Guide for a tons of ideas of tours and attractions in NYC.

Planning on coming to nyc during the holidays read my holiday guide to nyc  or find out where to eat in drink for the holidays ..

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About the author: lauren mcgill.

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The Perfect 4 Day Itinerary for New York City

What to do in nyc in 4 days.

It can be overwhelming trying to create a 4-day itinerary in NYC. If you’re wondering if and how you can do New York in 4 days, you’ll find the answer here! I’ll show you how to spend 4 perfect days in New York City with my experience of more than 20 visits to my favorite city. And that without stress, with restaurant tips and the most important sights and most interesting neighborhoods.

You'll also love this:

• 3 Day Itinerary for NYC
• 7 Day Itinerary for NYC
• 1 Week NYC Itinerary For Free

So, I have created the following 4 Day Itinerary NYC to make it easier for you. Feel free to use it as is or customize as you’d like – either way, we hope it helps!

This is the best 4 day itinerary for New York City:

Table of Contents

4 Day Itinerary NYC  Day 1 : Theatre District & Midtown

New York City’s Theatre District is the neighborhood where most Broadway theatres are found in Midtown West. West 54th Street bounds this area to the north, West 40th Street to the south, Eighth Ave to the west, and Sixth Avenue to the east.

Here you’ll find many theaters, hotels, restaurants, and other entertainment venues, as well as Times Square. There’s really no better part of the city to begin your 4- day trip , so let’s take a look a look at what to do in NYC’s Theatre District and Midtown on your first day:

Times Square

As we mentioned, this is the New York City neighborhood where Times Square is located. And even if you’ve never been to NYC, you should already know this is a bustling place. The best part is that there are plenty of things to see and do regardless of whether you go to Times Square during the day or night.  

If you’re looking for activities to do in Times Square, check out Madame Tussauds and National Geographic’s Ocean Odyssey. Or you can simply people-watch or meet someone dressed up as your favorite character – just don’t forget that if you take photos of these characters or interact with them, they’ll expect to be paid.  

When it comes time to eat in Times Square, try the best tacos in America at Los Tacos No. 1. , a slice of authentic NY pizza at Patzeria’s, or choose from hundreds of options at the 24-hour Times Square Diner. If you want something more upscale, head on over to Aureole , Carmine’s, or the Hunt & Fish Club .  

BIG BUS: Get a quick overview of Manhattan

NYC is home to many hop-on, hop-off bus tours offered by Big Bus. So, once it’s time to leave Times Square and move on, get on one of these buses and ride to the next location. Thanks to onboard commentary, this is a great way to see and get to know the area. Not to mention, it’s a nice reprieve if you’re not used to walking so many miles per day.  

Bryant Park

For the next stop on day 1, we have Bryant Park. It’s a charming little gem found right behind the New York Public Library. Bryant Park makes you think you’ve left NYC and entered Paris, and it makes a wonderful place to read a book, enjoy a picnic, or just rest your feet for a few minutes.  

Grand Central Terminal

Grand Central Terminal is just as beautiful and busy as you would expect. Sure, you’ve probably seen it featured in countless shows and movies over the years, but seeing it is believing, as the television does not capture the stunning beauty of the building’s turquoise ceiling or the sheer number of people who travel through here daily.  

Anytime you’re near Grand Central, be sure to stop at Sarge’s Delicatessen & Diner for an authentic, inexpensive breakfast or brunch. If you’re in a hurry, grab a quick bite at Bagel Express; their food is simple, tasty, and affordable.  

One Vanderbilt The Summit

Summit One Vanderbilt is NYC’s newest attraction that recently opened in October 2021. The building altered the look of the city’s skyline, which provides guests with a whole new experience.  

Summit One features a deck, mirrored rooms, and the world’s tallest rack-and-pinion elevator system that features cars that are 90 square feet each, which makes them the world’s largest glass floor elevators!

There are several different packages to choose from, and the one you choose decides how much of the experience you get to enjoy. For example, the Summit Experience allows you access to all 4 floors, and you can step into glass skyboxes that sit 1,000 feet over Midtown below.  

Alternatively, you can choose the Summit Ascent package, which includes access to the entire experience and the glass elevators at their highest point. This is a must-see attraction for anyone looking for the best views of NYC and should definitely be a part of your first day.  

This is perhaps the most famous and expensive street in all of New York City – 5th Avenue or as it’s commonly called “Millionaire’s Row.” This road stretches the entire length of Manhattan both north and south.  

Regardless of whether you buy anything or not, 5th Avenue should be on your itinerary. There’s something about marveling at the most expensive retail space in the world, and it almost makes you feel as if you’re on Ginza in Tokyo or Champs-Elysees in Paris.  

The best shopping areas are found closest to Central Park, where you’ll find stores such as Cartier and Armani. You’ll also find the famous NYC Apple store, where they offer laptops and free internet access.  

Another great thing about exploring 5th Avenue is that you’ll find the Empire State Building, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and many museums.  

Empire State Building

Speaking of the Empire State Building, this is the next stop on your first-ever trip to NYC. Completed in 1931 as the world’s tallest building, this 102-story skyscraper symbolizes the resilience and hope of NYC and its people. Today, the building is used primarily for office space, but it is also home to two observation decks and many unique exhibits.  

You have a few options for how you can enjoy this iconic building. First, you can travel to the main observation deck at the 86th Floor Observatory. This is the city’s most famed open-air observatory, where you’ll enjoy 360-degree views of the city.  

For those who want to see even better breathtaking views, check out the 102nd Floor Observatory, where you’ll find floor-to-ceiling views that can extend up to 80 miles on clear days. Regardless of whether you go inside, it’s still a legendary building to see in person.  

The Perfect Itinerary For Your New York Trip

This itinerary contains over 50 spots and highlights of the city, including a map that shows you the best way to travel each day, taking you to or past the many big attractions. In addition, we‘ve added our favorite places, from great breakfast spots to start your day right to small bars and restaurants and hidden insider spots.

What awaits you here now is the perfect New York week, because this is what my itinerary would look like if I were visiting the Big Apple for the first or second time right now!

4 Day Itinerary NYC  Day 2 : Hudson Yards, Chelsea, Meatpacking District

On day 2 of this 4 Day Itinerary NYC, you’ll explore the Meatpacking District, Chelsea, and Hudson Yards, which are all located in Midtown Manhattan . At one time, this was Manhattan’s hub of industry, but in recent times it has become one of the most cultivated cultural neighborhoods in NYC.  

Chelsea is on downtown Manhattan’s west side and is an expensive area with many things to do, such as historical sights, off-Broadway theatre, dining, and more. This area also encompasses the ultra-chic Meatpacking District , where you’ll find posh nightlife, fine dining, and luxury shopping.  

Chelsea is adored by art fans and is well-known for its concentration of galleries. Tourists love these neighborhoods because it’s very walkable and still an up-and-coming section of New York City. Now, let’s take a look at what your second day in NYC has in store for you!

Circle Line - Best of NYC Cruise

The best way to start your second day in New York City is by hopping aboard the Best of NYC Cruise offered by Circle Line. This is the only sightseeing cruise that goes completely around Manhattan, which means you get to see all of NYC’s most iconic landmarks from the comfort of a boat in under three hours!

Landmarks you can expect to see along this cruise are the Statue of Liberty, High Line, Ellis Island, Chrysler Building, Empire State Building, Gracie Mansion, Yankee Stadium, and much more. And the best part is that award-winning tour guides narrate each Best of NYC Cruises, so you’ll learn every significant detail during the trip.  

Explore Hudson Yards

Hudson Yards is one of the most exciting places to visit in New York City, especially if you only have 4 days on the itinerary. It’s home to two of the most photographable places in NYC, so you’ll want to buy tickets for both the Vessel and Edge .  

The Vessel is a honeycomb-shaped building that features 154 floors and sits in the center of Hudson Yards. Climb to the top and take in the views of the Hudson River, or take advantage of all the photo opportunities on the ground. You should know that if you plan to climb this structure, you have to buy tickets, and it’s definitely worth buying them online. Also, they only allow groups of two up at a time (one additional information: right now the Vessel is closed).

Bonus Tip: If you visit NYC around the holidays, Hudson Yards puts on a fantastic light display that you shouldn’t miss!

The Edge Observation Deck

As you’re walking north in Hudson Yards, you’ll notice an eye-catching building that’s made of glass and has a triangular-shaped platform coming from the top. If you take our advice and buy tickets to this attraction, you’ll be standing on that triangle very soon.  

As you walk inside of Hudson Yards’ central shopping mall, it may remind you of Singapore or Dubai with the upmarket feel and pristine finish. Keep moving to the fourth floor, as this is where you’ll find the entrance for Edge. Outside of the attraction, many neat exhibits teach visitors about renewable energy and how waste and air filtration work inside the building.  

The elevator ride that carries you from the fourth floor to the 100th is really exhilarating and a favorite of many people, as it’s like no other experience. Upon reaching the top of Edge, you are met with breathtaking views that are even better during sunset.  

After you finish here, be sure to walk up to 34th Street, past Penn Station, and see the famous NYC Macy’s store! At this point of day two, you may be ready for a meal. If so, check out places such as the Backyard Cafe at Hudson Yards, Wild Ink, Whitmans, The Tavern, or one of many eateries at the Chelsea Market.  

After you’ve had a bite to eat, head on over to the High Line, this is a fan favorite and offers some of the most beautiful views of the local area. Essentially, the High Line is an abandoned railroad track that’s been turned into an urban walkway and park. There are few other places in the world where you can experience such a mixed and improbable use of space – who builds a garden in the sky?

The High Line is an excellent place to take a stroll and see nature. The entire hike is about a mile and a half, but you don’t have to walk the entire way; just be sure to spend time enjoying the art and views.  

Meatpacking District

NYC’s Meatpacking District is a trendy commercial area located on the far west side between the West Village and Chelsea . In this section of NYC, you’ll find luxury designer clothing stores, a portion of the High Line, the Whitney Museum of American Art, and more!  

The cobblestone streets are lined with hip clubs and restaurants that have recently taken over the enormous spaces that once used to be home to none other than meat packaging facilities. So, take advantage of places such as Plunge Rooftop Bar and Lounge , Brass Monkey NYC , and the Famous Sky Bridge .  

Pier 54 - Little Island

Little Island is one of NYC’s newest attractions and is very special, as it’s a park built in the Hudson River atop 132 gorgeous tulip-shaped concrete stilts. It’s located at Pier 54 in Hudson River Park and is easily accessible via the High Line.  

This is a great stop for your second day in New York City because it’s designed with walking paths, gentle trees, and over 35 different species of trees, so it’s a true oasis in the middle of a concrete jungle. The highlight of Little Island Park is the amphitheater built next to the water, and there are also art exhibits and event spaces.  

Visit a Broadway Shows

As your second day comes to an end, grab some dinner at Dos Caminos , Catch NYC, RH Rooftop Restaurant, or Serafina Meatpacking and then make your way to take in a Broadway show. Even if this isn’t usually your scene, you are in New York City and the home of Broadway, so don’t miss out.  

It is worth mentioning that Broadway Shows can be expensive, but the experience is unforgettable. So, plan for this and try to book tickets in advance as they may be cheaper. Some popular shows right now include Hamilton , Wicked , Lion King , and more.

Recommended: These are the best broadway shows in NYC

4 Day Itinerary NYC  Day 3 : Financial District, DUMBO in Brooklyn

Welcome to your third day in NYC! Today you’ll experience New York City’s Financial District and DUMBO/Brooklyn. The city’s bustling financial heart is home to many glittering skyscrapers and Wall Street. During the workweek and evenings, the sidewalks are busy with young professionals working and filling the bars and restaurants of Stone Street and South Street Seaport.  

Once you get into DUMBO/Brooklyn, you’ll be surrounded by warehouses that have been converted into high-end restaurants, independent boutiques, and trendy cafes. On the north end, you’ll find Jane’s Carousel and on the waterfront is a former tobacco factory converted into a gallery and performance scene.  

Days 1 and 2 were busy, but day 3 has even more in store for you; be sure to drink lots of coffee in the morning and get started early! It’s probably best to grab a quick bite to eat, such as a bagel or donuts. So, let’s look at day 3 of our 4 Day Itinerary NYC:  

Battery Park

Many people know this park at the southernmost tip of Manhattan as a landing and/or departure point of the Staten Island Ferry (a free crossing enables a sensational view to the skyline). Battery Park is one of the oldest public parks in New York and is of historical importance for New York: the first Dutch settlers are said to have arrived here when they founded New Amsterdam.

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island (Ferry & Stop)

No trip to NYC is complete without stopping at the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, and this is especially true if it’s your first time visiting the city. However, as you would imagine, this is a top-rated destination, so it can take a good chunk of your day if you don’t plan properly. For this reason, we strongly recommend that you take the first ferry over to the island in the morning. Not only will this shorten the time it takes to visit Lady Liberty, but you’ll be on Liberty Island with just one group of people. Also, keep in mind that buying a ticket to the attraction is the only way you’re allowed to set foot on Liberty Island.  

After you’ve seen everything there is to see on Liberty Island, hop back on the ferry. It stops on Ellis Island before making its way back to Manhattan. To get the most from this experience, be sure to get off the ferry and check out the National Museum of Immigration on Ellis Island. Yet, only do this if you are a quick explorer or very interested because there is a lot of ground to cover today!

One World Observatory

NYC has a million things to experience, but there’s only one way to see all of them at once. Your journey begins as you hop aboard a SkyPod in One World Trade Center, which travels 102 floors in just 47 seconds until you are transported to the top of the Western Hemisphere’s tallest building.  

After arriving 102 stories high, you find yourself face-to-face with one of the world’s most iconic skylines. Even if you’ve seen the city millions of times, you’ve never seen it quite like this! The Observatory consists of three massive levels where you’ll discover lots of surprises along the way.  

If you are hungry, be sure to stop by the cafe for a delicious bite to eat. Then step onto the Sky Portal and wander high above the crowds below. Finally, go on an interactive tour of NYC with the assistance of a Skyline Concierge who can answer questions and inform you about the city’s long and storied history. Before you leave, don’t forget to stop by One Mix Bar for a glass of Prosecco and one last look at the Earth’s bend before setting off to your next attraction.  

9/11 Memorial and Museum

Though most of our 4 Day Itinerary NYC focuses on the fun and lively side of the city, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum remind us that some of the city’s most crucial parts of history are very dark.  

The Twin Towers used to stand in NYC’s Financial District on Manhattan’s southern tip, but today you’ll find the 9/11 Memorial in their place. The memorial is evocative and free to see, but if you feel up to it (as this is a very powerful and emotional experience), you should consider visiting the museum as well. Yet, regardless of whether you go into the museum or not, the 9/11 Memorial should be part of your 4 day NYC trip.  

Wall Street

Wall Street covers eight city blocks in the Financial District of Lower Manhattan. It runs between the East River in the east to Broadway in the west over to South Street and is the second most famous street besides Broadway.  

Exploring this area can be tricky, but it is a lot of fun. Begin by finding the New York Stock Exchange at the corner of Broadway and Wall Street. Though you can no longer go inside, seeing the building is something special itself. Also, be sure to take advantage of the photo op with the famed charging bull statue!  

Other activities to partake in this area include Battery Park, Trinity Church, Federal Hall, and Stone Street. If you’re hungry when on Wall Street, try out places such as Neapolitan Express, SkyCafe, or one of the many food trucks you’ll find in the area.  

South Street Seaport

As you move south along Wall Street, keep an eye out for South Street Seaport. This section of the neighborhood is located right on the edge of the Financial District and is a lively part of town that’s spent the last several years rebuilding after Hurricane Sandy.  

When you visit the seaport, you can enjoy live music, learn the local history, or grab some food at the Fulton farmer’s market. This area is only a short, 15-minute walk from the stock exchange and makes for the best excuse to rest your feet near the water.  

Brooklyn Bridge

After you’ve seen everything in the Financial District, it’s time to head over the famed Brooklyn Bridge. Of course, you can take a taxi or rideshare across the bridge to make the trip shorter, but if you feel up to it, you can also walk across. The bridge is just over one mile long, and you can even take a guided tour!

DUMBO & Brooklyn Heights

After crossing the Brooklyn Bridge, you’ll find that Brooklyn is home to some of NYC’s most exciting neighborhoods and sites. One that’s gained a lot of attention and adoration is DUMBO, which could also be partly due to its catchy name.  

This waterfront neighborhood has a fascinating and rich history and many activities for visitors to enjoy. Not only is DUMBO a premier art district, but there are also lots of great places to eat, such as Grimaldi’s Pizza , The River Cafe, Jacques Torres chocolate factory, Butler Bakery , and more. Are you looking for shopping? Be sure to check out the newly renovated Empire Stores on Water Street.

Circle Line - Harbor Lights Night Cruise

Finish out your third day in New York City with the Harbor Lights Cruise. Hop aboard one of Circle Line’s state-of-the-art boats and take in the views of NYC twinkling at night. This unforgettable experience lasts about two hours, and you’ll see landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, and more.  

Just make sure your camera is ready because you’ll be mere yards away from some of the best photos of your life. And don’t worry; you won’t miss a thing because there will be an award-winning tour guide narrating the City’s story. So, sit back, relax, and take some amazing photos while creating memories that will last forever.  

4 Day Itinerary NYC  Day 4 : Upper West Side, Midtown, SoHo, Little Italy

Finally, for day 4 of our 4 Day Itinerary NYC, you’ll spend the last day of your trip touring the Upper West Side , Midtown, SoHo, and Little Italy. And just when you thought your vacation wouldn’t get any better, we’re rounding the trip off with some laid-back activities that will help you wind down from the past several exciting days.  

Let’s see what these areas of NYC have in store for you on day number four:  

Central Park

You probably thought we forgot about Central Park, but you know the saying – saving the best for last! Central Park is a masterpiece that Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux created. Though the park has gone through extensive restorations over time, the initial purpose of acting as an open-air oasis amid a large, metropolitan city has always stayed the same.  

This national landmark is a must-visit attraction regardless of what season you visit or why you’re visiting. This park has something for folks of all ages, from horse and carriage rides and bike rentals to the Central Park Zoo and activities such as ice skating and Strawberry Fields.  

American Museum of Natural History

After finishing up at Central Park, you may want to stop at one of the many local restaurants such as the Loeb Boathouse, Tavern On The Green, or Maoz Vegetarian and make your way to the American Museum of Natural History.  

This museum is the world’s largest natural history museum, as it spans 4 city blocks and encompasses 25 interconnected buildings. Even if you’re not a fan of museums, this one is a must! It’s home to over 34 million specimens of animals, plants, fossils, human remains, rocks, minerals, meteorites, and human cultural artifacts. Though keep in mind that only a fraction of the museum’s artifacts are on show at any given time.  

Visit the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) ...

The next stop on our list is the MoMA, or Museum of Modern Art. This art museum is located in Midtown Manhattan on 53rd between Fifth and Sixth Avenues. MoMA plays a significant role in the development and collection of modern art. It’s often referred to as the world’s largest and most influential museum for modern art. And there’s no wonder considering that the MoMA features five floors of art. So, take as much time as you’d like to explore the exhibits and collections before moving on.  

... or the Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met), or both!

We hope you’re not tired of seeing beautiful art because your next stop is the Met. New York City’s Metropolitan Museum of Art is the United States’ largest art museum that controls a permanent collection of over two million works divided into 17 different departments.  

Seeing over two million pieces of art could take days by itself. So, it’s highly recommended that you plan for this part of your trip and already know what you want to see. At the very least, be sure to find Van Gogh, Hatshepsut Seated, the Temple of Dendur, and the Greek and Roman Statue Court.  

Discover the neighborhoods of SoHo, The Village and Little Italy

SoHo is an upscale residential and high-end shopping area where you’ll enjoy some of NYC’s best people-watching. Stroll up and down the area’s cobblestoned streets , admiring the rows of shops and houses. If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, be sure to stop by the Dominique Ansel Bakery and order one of the legendary Cronuts.  

If you’re in the mood to keep walking, you can continue on to West Village or Greenwich Village . If not, find a posh SoHo restaurant and enjoy some food. Some of the best places to eat in Soho include Antique Garage, Blue Ribbon Brasserie, and Dig.  

On day 4 of our 4 Day Itinerary NYC, your final stop is Little Italy. The best part is that if you’re not in the mood for trendy SoHo food, Little Italy is the quintessential dining spot ! You’ll find local favorites such as Lombardi’s Pizza, Onieal’s, and Angelo’s of Mulberry Street .  

Yet, Little Italy is so much more than just an excellent place to eat. This area is also home to many historic landmarks, street art, gorgeous architecture, mafia locations, TV and movie locations, and the perfect place to find upscale consignment shops!

4 Days NYC Itinerary

Planning for your first trip to Manhattan can be overwhelming yet exciting. Relieve some of your stress and refer to our 4 Day Itinerary NYC and create the trip of a lifetime!

Just don’t forget to invest in the New York Pass for 4 Days and pack comfortable shoes!

Helpful Tips for Visiting NYC in 4 Days

If it’s your first time visiting NYC, then you may not know some insider secrets that will save you time and money! So, we thought we’d share a few of our own:

Invest in the New York Pass for 4 Days

And just as you’d expect, most of the popular tourist attractions in NYC charge an entry fee, and when you’re paying for yourself and other family members or friends, those costs will add up quickly. However, when you have the New York Pass, it provides you with access to these places, and it’s far cheaper than buying tickets at the door.

Get New York Pass now

or check out our ultimate New York Pass Comparison .

Are 4 days in New York City enough?

I think 4 days for New York is great, because you have more time than if you only visit the Big Apple for a weekend. Of course 5 days, 1 week or even 10 days are even better! In the 4 days NYC as in our itinerary you experience the most important neighborhoods and attractions of the city – and that quite relaxed!

Is $1000 enough for 4 days in New York?

Yes! Because if you know how, you can save a lot of money in NYC! First of all, check out the different sightseeing passes for New York . You can easily save 50% on admission to the best attractions in NYC.

In addition, I recommend my hotel finder for New York . It shows you the best hotels in NYC for every budget . They are proof that good hotels in New York don’t have to be expensive. Another budget tip are the food markets of NYC . Here you can eat very tasty and at relatively good prices. I love them!

What should I pack for 4 days in New York?

This is the most important tip that I have: Wear Comfortable Shoes ! This probably goes without saying, but NYC is best explored on foot, and you will spend a great deal of time walking from one place to another. When you consider that the average New Yorker walks about 10 miles per day just during their daily lives, you’ll see that comfortable shoes are a must!

What else do you need? This depends a bit on your travel time: 2 shorts or long pants, 2-3 t-shirts and a sweater are sufficient for the warm months. In the colder months you should definitely have several warm sweaters and a jacket!

How much is a 4-day trip to NYC?

If you’re in New York for 4 days, the hotel and food will use up most of your travel budget. A 3 star hotel in Midtown Manhattan starts at $100 per night , a 4 star hotel is $150 and prices for a night in a 5 star hotel start at $300 , so expect overnight costs of $300, $450 and $900 respectively for 3 nights.

For breakfast in the diner you can calculate with $15 per person and in the restaurants with $40 per person . Of course, it can quickly be more expensive.

Sightseeing costs: I can’t stress this enough: be sure to check out the various New York City sightseeing passes. It’s a simple and easy way to save 50% off the regular admission price. For the New York Pass for 4 days you can visit as many attractions as you want. It costs you just $200!

How do you plan a 4 day trip?

What is important to me when planning a trip with 4 days in NYC, I have already implemented in the above itinerary. The attractions you see per day should be close to each other, so you don’t waste a lot of time by communing.

Furthermore, you should plan enough time where you just do nothing else but let New York City work its magic on you. This is best done in one of the many cafes or during a walk along the High Line or 5th Avenue.

3 Days in New York: The Ultimate Guide for 2024

7 Day New York Itinerary

1 Week NYC Itinerary For Free: Travel Plans, Sightseeing, Maps & Tips

I'm a true New York fan! Not only have I visited the city over 25 times but also have I spent several months here at a time. On my blog I show you the best and most beautiful spots of the city, so that you have a really good time! You can also find lots of insider tips in our New York travel guide . Also check out my hotel finder for New York !

Hole dir deine wöchentliche Dosis New York mit meinem Loving New York-Newsletter! Er ist vollgestopft mit den neuesten Artikeln, Videos, Erfahrungsberichten und allem, was gerade Interessantes und Wissenswertes im Big Apple passiert.

Ich selbst war über 25x in meiner Lieblingsstadt und möchte dir mit meinen Emails dabei helfen, eine sensationelle Zeit vor Ort zu haben.

Und als BONUS bekommst meine ✔️ "24 Tipps für deine New York-Reise" ✔️ die U-Bahn-Karte und ✔️ die offizielle NYC-Karte zugeschickt. Ganz KOSTENLOS!

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Plan Your Trip to NYC

Planning a trip to New York City can be exciting -- and overwhelming. We've curated the best advice to help you simplify your research and plan the trip of a lifetime.

Every season in New York City has something special to offer so make the most your visit, no matter what time of year.

There aren’t many other cities in the world where you have 3 options.  Wondering which airport you should choose?

NYC airport transportation  guide to understand the pros and cons of travel at JFK, LaGuardia, or Newark.

Where To Stay

A quick search for “New York City Hotels” will produce thousands of options. New York City has a mind-boggling number of places to stay, go and see… a simple “New York Hotels” Google search can leave even the most savvy traveler feeling overwhelmed. With literally thousands of options to choose from, how does one begin to decide? We think the best way is to first think about your wants, needs or goals for this trip, then narrow it down by neighborhoods that fit the bill -- then start your hotel or vacation rental/lodging search. We’re here to help with the first two.

• Flatiron Neighborhood District Guide
• Financial District Neighborhood Guide
• Greenwich Village Neighborhood Guide
• Lower East Side Neighborhood Guide
• Times Square / Midtown Manhattan Guide
• Upper East Side Neighborhood Guide
• Upper West Side Neighborhood Guide
• Chinatown Neighborhood Guide
• Queens Neighborhood Guide
• SoHo Neighborhood Guide

There is no shortage of amazing things to do in NYC. If it’s your first visit, we highly recommend taking a look at our tours and attractions, which you can purchase at a lower cost.

• New York Skyline
• Statue of Liberty
• Traveling with kids? Use our guide to kid-friendly things to do in NYC
• Insider's Guide to Woodbury Common Premium Outlets
• 72 Hours in New York City travel guide - a comprehensive recommendation for getting the most out   of a 3-day visit.
• NYC Day Trips
• An Insider's Guide to Times Square
• Popular Attractions In New York
• Empire State Building
• One World Observatory
• Things to do in NYC at Night

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More About New York City

New York City is traditionally broken up into five-boroughs: Manhattan, the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island. To the west, there's the island of Manhattan where you'll find most of the iconic attractions like Central Park, The Empire State Building and Times Square. It might be a good idea to give yourself plenty of time to explore this borough. To the north of Manhattan is the Bronx, known for Yankee Stadium and famous Bronx Zoo. Over on the eastside is Queens where you can explore a variety of museums off the beaten path like MoMA PS1, Queens Museum and New York Hall of Science. Over in Brooklyn, look out for the famous Brooklyn Bridge and Coney Island, both have been featured in countless movies and TV shows. Down south is Staten Island connected to Manhattan via the Staten Island Ferry, which gives you a scenic ride of New York Harbor.

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Before You Go

• To make it easier to replace your passport if it’s lost or stolen, in addition to your passport, take a photocopy of your passport information page (keeping it separate from your actual passport).
• Carry only a limited amount of cash, just enough for gratuities and incidental purchases. Major credit cards are widely accepted and can be replaced if lost or stolen.
• Always lock your hotel room door (including patio and balcony door on any level of the building) and use the peephole before opening the door.
• Store your valuables (such as cash, credit cards and airline tickets) in the hotel’s in-room safe or front desk safety deposit box.
• If you must carry valuables on your person, do so in a pouch or money belt concealed under your clothing. Purses and backpacks can be easy targets for thieves.
• For complete and current safety and security information, including travelers' tips, public announcements, travel advisories and more, please visit the website of the U.S. Department of State at www.travel.state.gov.
• December through February: 44° to 43° (Winter)
• March through May: 52° to 72° (Spring)
• June through August: 80° to 84° (Summer)
• September through November: 76° to 55° (Autumn)

Top Experiences

Central Park : You could easily spend all day at this park. It's home to numerous movie filming locations like Wollman Rink, known for most ice-skating scenes in New York City and Bethesda Terrace, that gorgeous arched terrace with the fountain outside of it with the angel on top, popular with romcoms. Just walk around the park and you'll get a sense of deja vu. The park is also home to the Central Park Zoo and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Statue of Liberty : A gift from the French, she's become a symbol of America. You can only reach her by ferry so make sure to book your ticket in advance to get an up-close and personal look and learn more about this piece of American history.

Empire State Building : Songs have been inspired by this building, the New York skyline wouldn't be quite as stylish without it. While not the tallest building in the city, this 102-story art deco inspired building still offers an amazing view of the city.

Times Square : If you're brave enough come for the epic New Year's Eve ball drop, otherwise come to marvel at the brightly lit square in all its glory on any other day of the year. It's located at the junction of Broadway and Seventh Ave and is surrounded by popular attractions, restaurants and shops.

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First Time Guide to New York City 5 Day Itinerary by a native New Yorker

January 7, 2020 by Karen Turner 84 Comments

I’m so proud to be a native New Yorker and I love to help first timers plan their first trip to New York City. I’ve made a five day itinerary for NYC with advice on what to see and eat mostly in Manhattan for all budgets.

This is a local guide, so although I cover the famous sites, I encourage you to see the smaller neighborhoods/places that make New York special. The Big Apple has so much to offer year-round, so most of these tips can be also used over the holidays. There’s a FREE downloadable map with all the best places to see in New York City in 5 days.

FYI: This is a  suggested  itinerary for five  days, so not everything may be your cup of tea. Feel free to pick from the days (and activities), but keep in mind that New York City is BIG , so you change up this itinerary, you might have a lengthy train or taxi ride between places.

How long to spend in NYC? 5 days in NYC is actually the perfect amount if it’s your first visit. You can spend 3 days in New York City, but it’s cutting it close–and you’ll need to come back again.  If you have only one day in New York City, you can still see Manhattan!

Before you visit New York City: Download Google Maps & the FREE map at the bottom with all mentioned places as well as Yelp for food. Google has recently really improved their offers for food recommendations.

• 1 How to get to NYC from its airports
• 2 Where to Stay in New York City & How Much Spending Money You’ll Need
• 3 What to see in NYC in 5 days!
• 4 Day 1: The Must-Sees with a Twist
• 5 Day 2: The Intellectual / The Partier
• 6 Day 3: Iconic New York
• 7 Day 5: The Culture Lover (Queens)
• 8  Last thoughts: Plan Ahead.
• 9 Have you been to NYC? How many days felt right? What was your favorite place?

How to get to NYC from its airports

If you’re on the East Coast, you can take Megabus directly to Manhattan. Otherwise, you will fly into JFK, LaGuardia, or Newark. JFK is easily accessible via the Airtrain & A train and/or LIRR. You can also book your own shuttle in between Downtown Manhattan and JFK/any other airport if you don’t want to worry about it. Uber is now also an option.

LaGuardia requires a bus and a train, but it’s a quick hop to Manhattan. Newark International Airport is in New Jersey, so plan on 30+ minutes on NJ transit.  This is separate from New York’s subway system. You can click here for tips on how to use the NYC subway .

Where to Stay in New York City & How Much Spending Money You’ll Need

New York is expensive.  If you’re not on a tight budget, you’re best off staying off in Midtown or the Village if you can afford it since both locations make sightseeing easiest.  Click for my insider guide to affordable hotels in New York City.

However, for those seeking a more alternative experience and/or lower price tag with a short train ride to the sites, stay in Astoria or Long Island City in Queens.  In Brooklyn, look in Williamsburg, Dumbo, or Clinton Hill.  

You might also find some affordable picks along  the Lower East Side .  You might also want to look into the  Pod hotel chain for affordable rooms in central locations .    Click for my picks for affordable hotels in New York City

​For budgeting tips, read my master NYC on a budget post where all of the activities are FREE .  Plan on spending at minimum $50+ per person on food, $20 per person on activities minimum, $100+ on the hotel (for one room), and extra if you plan on going out (cocktails are usually $10-15). Be sure to master happy hour as it will save you a lot of money. Please be sure to account for tips at restaurants as tipping is standard in New York City.

I did not include this on the list: I highly recommend stopping to see a Broadway show, if that’s your thing. Book your tickets early and try first through the theatre itself to get the best prices in advance. In place of going out, see a show. Budget about $70-$300+ per ticket depending on the show and your sets. A friend of mine was able to get tickets to a major Broadway show for just $70 per seat. Off-Broadway is a great option for those on a tighter budget.

What to see in NYC in 5 days!

Day 1: the must-sees with a twist.

This day is all about experiencing New York City at it’s best: pizza, history, and iconic views.

Visit the 9/11 Memorial ($2 Reservation Fee; otherwise free to visit).  Note: Please be respectful of those who passed away here and don’t remove the flowers or take smiling selfies. Walk a few streets over to see the Woolworth Building , one of New York’s prettiest early skyscrapers dating back to the 1910s.

Walk up towards Chinatown . Be sure to bring cash and trust me when I tell you that the bags offered to you on the street are  not  real Chanel bags. You can click for this insider’s guide to Chinatown written by a friend who is from Chinatown. Annie includes a bit of history as well as her favorite restaurants in Chinatown. I personally love to always stop off for bubble tea!

After you eat, consider visiting the Tenement Museum to learn about New York’s immigrant past–and what living in Chinatown was like barely 100 years ago. You need to reserve ahead for tickets. Click to read more about the Lower East Side.

Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge.  No matter how many times I walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, I never ceased to be amazed by its impressive building.  

Stop in for a coffee at Brooklyn Roasting Compan y for some Brooklyn vibes and a good cup of coffee before walking to the  Brooklyn Promenade for a panoramic view of Manhattan. Click for a complete guide to downtown Brooklyn!

Have Juliana’s Pizza for dinner. Grimaldi’s is not as good as it once was. This famous pizzeria has delicious, affordable thin crust pizza cooked to perfection. Its location under the Bridge makes it even better around sunset.

Get drinks in trendy Williamsburg at Union Pool or Night of Joy to enjoy the view of Manhattan from the roof, especially in summer. Not into the hipster scene?  Head back to Manhattan via the Brooklyn Bridge to enjoy the view of the lit-up skyline before walking down to Battery Park to catch the free Staten Island ferry for amazing views of the Statue of Liberty . You can click for my favorite free viewpoints in New York City here!

Day 2: The Intellectual / The Partier

Walk the  Highline  for an amazing view of Manhattan’s skyline from above in a modern green space that used to be train tracks.  The Highline is a public park that spans quite a few blocks, so give yourself at least an hour if you come here to enjoy the views!

Stop in Chelsea  for a delicious brunch in any of the stalls before walking around chic Chelsea . This area, which used to be the meatpacking district, has great boutique shopping and antique shopping.   Click for your Chelsea brunch guide!

Walk down Greenwich Avenue or West 4th Avenue for scenic houses and interesting shops in Greenwich Village . Pass the Stonewall , the birthplace of the gay rights movement. There are many great cafes and coffee shops in this area.

Walk towards the iconic  Washington Square Park (next to New York University). People watch & play a chess game before walking up to Union Square , which has a great weekend farmer’s market in addition to normal shopping. Stop in  the Strand,  one of New York’s best independent bookstores. For dinner, you have so many great options from Japanese to vegan to pizza. Enjoy!

Note: It shouldn’t take long to walk (maybe 1 hour from Chelsea market down to the Union Square), so you should have plenty of time left for museum-going or must-sees (e.g. Top of the Rock) if you set out early. Personally, I’d skip the Top of the Rock if you go to a rooftop bar.

At night, head back to the Village to visit one of New York’s many (pricey) speakeasy bars, including Employees Only or Please Don’t Tell.  Reserve ahead and dress well as you might not get in otherwise. Chelsea/the Meatpacking District is one of the main areas for going out in New York (if that’s your thing). The Standard is famous for its rooftop bar although it’s difficult to get into.

If chic cocktail bars aren’t your thing, New York has a lot to offer in terms of alternative culture. Check out the IFC movie theatre for rare  indie movies or Comedy Cellar for late-night laughs (beware of the drink minimum). 

Need a late-night snack? Veselka has delicious 24-hour Ukrainian borscht and perogies. (Yes, that restaurant out of Nick and Nora’s Infinite Playlist.)

Day 3: Iconic New York

Start your day off in the beautiful Grand Central Terminal.  This historic train station is one of the most famous filming locations in New York City.  I love people watching here although try to stay out of the way.  For something off the beaten path, find the whispering gallery where your voice echoes!

Head to the New York Public Library and pass the landmarks (the Chrysler & Empire State Building ) to take in the architecture.  My favorite is the Chrysler building, which was known as the ugliest building in New York when it was built.

For lunch, eat at Shake Shack with the rest of Manhattan in Bryant Park . (Dress warmly in winter since there’s no seating!). In Bryant Park, you can watch people ice skate in winter while you eat!  Nearby, I have a soft spot for browsing the giant Macy’s in Herald Square.

If you’re an art lover, visit the Museum of Modern Art .   MoMa is a world-class museum for a reason and I strongly recommend checking the recent exhibitions to see what is on.

If not, enjoy shopping along Fifth Avenue .  The Christmas windows here during November and December are spectacular and  free .  My personal favorite is Bloomingdale’s! Read more tips about New York over the holidays .

Dinner doesn’t need to be expensive to be good.  Go to  Halal Guys for cheap/delicious take-out chicken and rice, Pio Pio for fantastic Peruvian food, or Empanada Mama for empanadas. After dinner, watch the sunset and take in the incredible skyline (with a cocktail in hand) at the Pod 39 Rooftop .

Enjoy the bright lights of Times Square at night . (Trust me, it’s like daytime.)  If you’re on a budget, I like to head to Hell’s Kitchen for  more budget drinks and late-night snacks.

Day 4: The Perfect Classic NYC Itinerary

Pick up a bagel with lox from Zabar’s or get a boozy brunch at Calle Ocho. To be honest, anywhere with a good bagel and a coffee should work as long as it’s not Dunkin Donuts.

Head to the American Museum of Natural History if you’re with kids OR the Met  for a few hours!  In the Met, I love the Egyptian temple , Musical Instruments , Armor , and pre-20th century art . Don’t miss the rooftop garden for amazing views.  Bring your own yogurt for a Gossip Girl photo . (XOXO)

In good weather, you could spend the whole day in Central park lounging, but the Met is one of my favorite museums in the world with a world-class collection.  The Met doesn’t have suggested admission anymore, but it’s still a great museum.  The American Museum of National History is also a fantastic museum and better suited to families as well as science lovers.  Click for a guide to the Upper East Side!

Head to Central Park.  I recommend finding the Belvedere Castle , the Bethesda Terrace , Sheep Meadow for lazy picnics, and the Boathouse . If you’re a runner, I strongly recommend trying to run the Reservoir one morning.

In summer, check the Summerstage program ahead for free music shows! This yearly music festival in New York brings in well-known as well as upcoming artists for free shows in Central Park.  It’s great to make a day out of it.

For a nicer modern meal, visit the Thalia or the Russian Tea Room . For a casual, very New York meal, try a (famous) NYC hot dog ? Don’t buy it from a cart; Only buy from Gray’s Papaya with a smoothie like a local. Have the real  New York famous cheesecake at Junior’s for dessert.

Day 5: The Culture Lover (Queens)

Queens is where I grew up. (Yes, not everyone lives in Manhattan.) It was named Lonely Planet’s #1 destination in the world in 2015 due to its amazing food and culture. Really.

Take the train to Astoria to visit the Museum of Moving Image in the morning.  For anyone who is a movie buff or has kids, this museum will be heavenly.  They have old prop sets from classics, such as Seinfeld, interactive exhibitions, and a lot of movie props (even from Star Wars).

Astoria itself is a neighborhood in Queens that has historically been Greek and you can still find great Greek food here.  That said, it’s rapidly changing as more millennials move in. Click for a guide to Astoria.

Lunch: visit nearby Jackson Heights for the best  Latin American food in NYC or Indian food. (Yelp!)  Jackson Heights is a diverse neighborhood with incredible food from  so many countries. (I highly recommend checking out the Queens Night Market if you’re lucky enough to be in town later that evening!)

The rest of the Day gives you lots of options.  Stop off at F l ushing Meadow Park (especially in summer!) to see the iconic Unisphere and check out the NYC Panorama , which is a miniature version of New York City in the modern Queens Museum of Art.

Into art/sculptures ? Visit the Noguchi museum for beautiful Japanese sculptures and a zen garden, PS1 for avantgarde exhibits, or the free Socrates Sculpture Park for free sculptures.

Into beer ? Head to the Bohemian Beer Garden to relax or one of the many microbreweries popping up all around NYC (Singlecut Beersmiths / Rockaway Brewing company).

For shopping , catch the LIC flea market on the weekend. Don’t miss the gorgeous retro-chic  Sweetleaf coffee shop if you’re in the area, which turns into a bar a night.

For dinner, head to Flushing (Stop on 7 Subway: Main St). Decide what kind of Asian food you’re seeking and check on yelp . (It’s going to be a hard decision.) After dinner, stop for bubble tea or Chinese pastries . You can even do private room karaoke if you look for KTV signs. You can click to read more about Flushing, including my favorite picks for dinner.

 Last thoughts: Plan Ahead.

New York is so large. I sometimes joke that you need about two weeks to just cover the major sights, which is true since I didn’t even include Coney Island (Brooklyn).  I didn’t even cover every borough here!

However, five full days in New York City is a perfect start to feel at home in New York. At a minimum, you should have the hang of the subway by the time that you’re done. Below, you’ll find a free offline map with all the places mentioned here that you can download for offline use!

• Helpful tips on how to take the NYC subway and subway hacks here.
• Click here for my guide to NYC over Thanksgiving, Christmas, the holiday season, & New Year’s Eve !
• New York For Christmas
• Where to shop in New York City
• 30+ Free things to do in New York City
• 50+ Unusual things to do in New York City

Have you been to NYC? How many days felt right? What was your favorite place?

About Karen Turner

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

Reader Interactions

January 28, 2017 at 8:56 am

Love this itinerary! I am long overdue a trip back to New York. (Daren’t say how long it’s been!!) Really nice balance of big sites and locals-only secrets.

January 28, 2017 at 10:07 am

For a long time I wanted to visit NYC. It’s because I wanted (don’t laugh) to do a shopping session just like those girls in the movies. I wanted to walk around and buy everything fancy. Pretty awesome guide, thank you for taking the time to write it and make it so comprehensive for us, beginners!

January 28, 2017 at 3:31 pm

Hi Cory, Thanks so much for reading. I won’t laugh: NYC is great for shopping. I haven’t written anything about the shopping but it IS a great for a girl’s weekend for sure. Glad you enjoyed it and hope you get to do your shopping trip!

January 28, 2017 at 2:44 pm

Top notch itinerary!! And YAY QUEENS! Really nice to see an itinerary focusing on my favorite borough 🙂 This post makes me miss NYC something awful. Reading this had me reflecting on how NYC really has something for everyone! It was overwhelming when I lived there, but now that I’m traveling I definitely miss it.

January 28, 2017 at 3:36 pm

Hi Eva, thanks for reading. I know the feeling about NYC… It really does have something for everyone although it CAN seen overwhelming. I definitely struggle with coming up with concise recommendations–and deciding what to include here was TOUGH, however this is what I’ve been sending to friends for years. (They’ve loved where I’ve sent them with this itinerary!) Everyone else forgets Queens, so I figured I needed to fix this. 🙂

January 28, 2017 at 7:21 pm

This made me miss New York so much! I lived there for most of my 20s and miss so much of my life there. I didn’t know that there was a shake shack in Bryant Park. I always went to the one in Madison Square Park especially when it was winter and there are flurries of snow. (No line) It also looked magical.

January 28, 2017 at 10:48 pm

This is a perfect guide and I used to live in NY so I know! There are many things on this list I haven’t done. I haven’t spent much time in Queens and totally want to . Walking the Brooklyn Bridge to Grimaldi’s is my fave!!! Love this.

January 29, 2017 at 4:48 am

What a really great and thorough post! I love New York, although I haven’t been back there in almost 9 years so a return trip is definitely overdue! I fell in love with all the quirky boutique coffee shops and stores in Greenwich Village. I’m bookmarking this so that I have some inspiration of where else to check out next time. Thanks! 🙂

January 29, 2017 at 5:29 am

Oh gosh to have 5 days in New York right now would be the dream! I visited for 4 days about 5 years ago and it was just not enough time. Spent each day walking for miles to take in as much as we could including the 9/11 memorial, Wall Street, Empire State Building, Public Library, Central Station and more. But I did really feel I’d need longer to really get a feel for the place. A chance to chill out in a few of those speakeasy bars for example would be lovely!

January 29, 2017 at 6:12 am

Nothing beats the good advice that only a local can give – so happy I found this blog thank you for the great tips!

January 29, 2017 at 9:25 am

Shake Shack was my absolute favourite meal in NYC best burger I’ve ever had haha! Hoping to get back to NYC later this year and really need to do the highlife properly as didn’t get chance last time. Great itinerary!

January 29, 2017 at 4:25 pm

THIS IS AN AMAZING GUIDE! I loved that you broke it down and gave each day a little “travel label” for different places, food, etc. I’ve visited New York so many times, but I noticed I’ve only hung around the extreme tourist spots and never really ventured out into other areas. I am definitely referring back to this guide when I head up to NYC the next time! (: Hopefully we could meet up while I’m there and chat!

Also pinned to share with everyone else!

September 6, 2022 at 6:55 am

Me and my daughters will be vowing NYC Are there any name brand consignment stores?

December 1, 2022 at 8:42 pm

I have a whole shopping guide to NYC!

January 29, 2017 at 8:15 pm

I love this guide! NYC is a dream destination of mine as for many others, and it’s always great to receive tips about what you should do there. Especially from a native New Yorker. I think I love Day 5 in particular. Getting to see the FRIENDS’ set at Museum of Moving Image and exploring the LIC flea market (with markets being my favourite thing to do), would be such a huge highlight of my trip. When I come to NYC, I’ll probably visit for longer than 5 days though. There’s just so much to see and do haha. Thanks for sharing! 🙂

April 3, 2017 at 10:25 pm

Hi! Thanks for a great post. I am going to New York City soon and will definitely use all your wonderful tips. Very inspiring blog you have.

I have a question though – when I’ve downloaded the map for Google is it automatically available offline, or is there something I have to do in order to be able to access it without having internet?

Thanks in advance 🙂

April 4, 2017 at 1:41 am

Hi Nanna, Thanks so much for reading. I’m glad that this has been helpful to you and you find the blog inspiring!

It depends on whether you have an android OR an iphone, but I’ve included a link by my name that should help you figure it out. You just need to download a google map of NYC and if you’ve added my locations to your main google maps, this should work. Otherwise, you’ll need to download the map under “My Maps”.

If you go to Menu -> Offline areas, you’ll be able to see if it worked! I hope that this answers your question. 🙂

Thanks, Karen

April 24, 2017 at 5:11 am

Thanks girl! Super helpful!!

July 10, 2017 at 10:02 pm

I’m so happy I found this! It’s everything I wanted to do in NYC – simplified – plus Bubble Tea!!

How is NYC in late July – early August? We’re going to visit for 5 days and attend a wedding, does it really get hot? Would you recommend renting a car or just uber everywhere?

July 11, 2017 at 12:22 am

Hi Jenna, Thanks so much for reading and I’m so glad to hear that.

NYC is super humid and a bit nasty around that time. I usually stay indoors a lot…until night. I usually just bring an extra layer since some places overdo the AC.

Don’t rent a car. Take public transit or a taxi. The buses have great AC btw.

I hope you have a great time, so please get in touch if you have any further questions!

July 28, 2017 at 1:24 am

We are off to USA on Saturday and visiting New York for 5 days this is fantastic. Thank you!

August 28, 2017 at 3:13 pm

Thanks for the useful information. Printed and ready to explore NYC.

October 13, 2017 at 8:27 pm

This is great! I spent 7 days about 5 year ago just walking and discovering things. My favorite thing I did was the oyster bar in Grand Central. China town was an adventure and I found some great eats in little italy! I wish smart phones were what they are now back then so I could have actually found some of the things I was looking for but i’m bookmarking this for next time I visit NYC. Thanks!

November 6, 2017 at 5:09 pm

Hi! We will be traveling to the city over thanksgiving. (4 adults and 3 children 4 and under). How does the subway pass work? Should the adults all purchase a weekly pass? We are also taking 2 strollers because our kids cannot manage without them. I know this is annoying to locals, but they will just have to deal. Any further advice on traveling with kids? TIA!

November 6, 2017 at 5:30 pm

Hi Natalie, Thanks for commenting and reading! Up to 3 kids are actually free with the metrocard (for whatever duration; including the week pass), so you just need two metrocards for the adults. It’s best to just ask the person in the booth when you’re swiping in to let you all in through the gate (which can fit a stroller). For buses, the driver will see. 🙂

I’d just keep the strollers folded up when possible as they might be annoying on a crowded subway, so maybe avoid rush hour. Honestly, people are used to strollers, so don’t worry too much about it. Just try avoid really crowded places with them and know that most museums won’t allow the strollers in.

I’ve been meaning to ask my dad to help me with more tips for kids as I’ve never been a parent in New York. I think the Queens Museum of Science is fantastic for young kids and it was one of my favorites as kid. Similarly, the Bronx Zoo has a great light show (I don’t know the dates) 🙂

Hope that helps!

Best, Karen

January 16, 2018 at 2:46 am

Hi I found your itinerary really useful on my trip. However Grey’s Papaya was a mistake. First time experience of eating a bit dog next to a homeless guy on his crack pipe, and that was inside!

January 17, 2018 at 8:13 pm

I’m so sorry to hear that. I’ve never had that happen while going to Grey’s Papaya, but yeah that’s really awful and I’d be really bothered by that too. Please contact the management at the restaurant about what happened, so hopefully nobody else has that experience. 🙁

I hope your trip to NYC was great otherwise and I’m glad that you found the itinerary good otherwise. Hope that didn’t spoil your trip!

February 8, 2018 at 3:50 am

Hi! im from toronto planning to visit in march. how cold is it there around the first week of march?

February 9, 2018 at 2:14 pm

Depends on the year. Have you seen my NYC Packing list Ianne? I have link by my name where you can read what I recommend bringing for March!

February 18, 2018 at 5:55 am

Hi Karen, Great guidance – thank you! I am travelling over on my own from Australia and just wondering if there are any guided tours you recommend or know of as I would feel more comfortable in a group as I have never visited NYC or the US. I’m looking for a tour that I can join to see NYC and potentially other places for example Niagra Falls etc. I have approx 10 days. Thanks in advance. Louise

February 19, 2018 at 11:42 pm

Hi Louise, I apologize, however I never did a guided tour as I never really had a need for it. It’s easy to visit Niagara Falls on your own and you can check my New York category for my guide to Niagara Falls. I’d say that you only need one day there, however it takes at least a day to get there if you fly (or one full day if you take the bus/train). I’d recommend maybe checking out DC if you’re on your first trip to the US. DC is an easy trip from NYC by Amtrak. Maybe G Adventures or Contiki are good options as a friend of mine used Contiki for her US trip for the same reason!

February 20, 2018 at 9:35 am

where do i download the app

February 20, 2018 at 3:18 pm

Apologies, the map went missing in the migration. It’s up now.

February 22, 2018 at 3:14 am

Love this post! I’m traveling in two weenie, I need your opinion about buying the tickets to the attractions directly or use the New York Pass.

February 22, 2018 at 2:36 pm

Hi Marjorie, I’d recommend buying the tickets yourself. It will probably be cheaper unless you’re going to the most expensive attractions included in the pass. 🙂

March 5, 2018 at 3:39 pm

Hi Karen, This blog is very informative. I am visiting NY this march 8th to match 10th with my parents. I have some questions for you.

1) How is the flood now? resided? 2) To visit all these places, is it cheap to rent a car or use public transport? 4) I initially booked flights tkts for 4 days and found maid of the mist was not open until mid of may and got disappointed. So now all my 4 days will be spent in NY.

March 5, 2018 at 4:42 pm

1. The damage is mostly fixed. 2. Use public transit. I have a helpful post about using the NYC subway, which should help. 3. Sorry to hear that, but you can still visit the falls. I have a guide to Niagara Falls, but I think also spending all four days in NYC will be best as there’s so much to do.

March 5, 2018 at 3:46 pm

And if I take amtrak to DC, can I still visit places in public transport in dc without renting a car?

March 5, 2018 at 4:44 pm

DC has a great metro system and all the major museums in DC are free. Very easy to get around without a car! 🙂

March 28, 2018 at 8:23 pm

Hi and many thanks for these tips. Great! We look forward to visiting NY next week. Coming from The Hague and Amsterdam, I am sure we have much in common – so we rely heavily on your guidance. If we arrive on a Saturday, is there one of the above mentioned day-profiles, you would recommend us to start with? By the way, do you know Gallagher’s stake house? Is it good? Thanks!

March 28, 2018 at 10:07 pm

Hi Willem, Small world. I’ll be publishing about the Hague very soon. 😉 If you’re arriving on a Saturday, you might want to avoid the crowds, so maybe start with Day 2. Day 1 might be fine too, however you might encounter some lines at the 9/11 memorial if you don’t make reservations in advance.

I don’t know Gallagher’s as I’m not really a big steak person to be honest.

I hope that you have a fantastic trip otherwise and let me know if you have other questions. 🙂

April 19, 2018 at 8:04 pm

Great post! We are coming in June and want to find a “locals” beach area….any suggestions?

April 19, 2018 at 8:05 pm

Hi Sandi, you can go to Coney Island within NYC. If you’re looking for a better beach, head to Jones Beach or Fire Island. 🙂

April 19, 2018 at 8:42 pm

That’s exactly where we were looking! Seems easy enough by train! Thank you!

May 7, 2018 at 2:35 am

Where can i download your map?

May 7, 2018 at 2:40 am

Export the data to a KML format. Then, email it to your phone. Google Maps usually opens it for me, otherwise I use an app called Maps.Me.

May 8, 2018 at 3:58 pm

Thank you so much for this information. Taking my dtr in early summer for a mom dtr trip. Any good recs for what to do/see in Central Park?

May 8, 2018 at 8:36 pm

I recommend Belvedere Castle, the boathouse, Sheep meadow, and the Alice in Wonderland statue. 🙂

May 27, 2018 at 1:24 pm

Hi Karen Im coming to New york city for 7-8 days to experience the Christmas! Very panicky and stressed up now as it seems overwhelming to plan the itinerary, and people are telling me to avoid New York during winter as it is at its coldest… this write up of yours is a great help! 🙂

July 10, 2018 at 3:07 am

Than You!! Love how the days are divided and all the details,, incredible! I’m a 1st time SF visiting mid week, mid Oct. For only 3 days before taking the train to Philly to see friends. I’m using all your tips for packing,$$, transportation, etc. Any suggestions on a centrally located area for Hotels that’s not in the heart of Time Square? $150-200. Any tips for traveling solo?

July 10, 2018 at 11:56 am

Hi Milehilady, So glad to hear that! I’m writing more about NYC soon as wel! I love Adventurous Kate’s tips for traveling solo in NYC. I mostly recommend using caution and I discuss it a bit in my “20 Things Nobody Tells You About Visiting New York by a New Yorker” post.

I’ll be posting a list of 10-15 hotels that are in that range today/tomorrow if you can check back this week. 🙂

Kind regards, Karen

July 27, 2018 at 7:13 am

This is good stuff. I cant see the downloadable map. Is it located anywhere else. We could really use it for our trip.

July 27, 2018 at 11:45 am

It’s in the post if you just look towards the bottom. Have a great trip!

July 29, 2018 at 10:39 pm

A brilliant read we travelling from the UK 30th August. we were advised to purchase a pass for the five days, which is supposed to get us into many of the expensive transactions for free. We are staying in Brooklyn as we believe its just a ride away from the main attractions. Where do we go to see where movies are filmed. Also, a strange question, but are there any genuine ghost tours or haunted places we coukd visit

Thank you in advance

July 29, 2018 at 11:36 pm

Hi Alison, You can look up my post about Astoria to read about the Museum of Moving Image, a great museum for this, although there’s many filming locations in NYC. I also have a post about Downtown Brooklyn with some insider tips. I haven’t done a ghost tour, but I’ve read a lot about Mulberry Street! I hope that you have a great trip.

February 24, 2019 at 1:51 am

Really great guide!! We are going to NYC inApril for 6 days and I’m so excited about it! Our list for for sure places right now consist of The Moma, The Met, and Cloisters, The Guggenheim, Little Italy and China Town, Brooklyn, Chelsea, SoHo and Greenwich Village, and I’ve booked tickets to see a band play “The Church,” in Jersey City. Plus, we want to eat at iconic restaurants, go to The Strand, and look at everything! Your guide is awesome and now how to pick through which places to eat at etc. thanks for taking the time to do this, so much to see and do and my husband and I want to do it all!

May 4, 2019 at 8:13 pm

Hi great guide thanks. We’re visiting NYC at the end of this month (May) for a wedding in Central Park. It’s me and my kids aged 13 and 15. Now to decide on the things that well all enjoy! Do you have any suggestions about wedding outfits for weather at that time of year in the park? At the moment thinking about Times Square at night, Central Park, walking Brooklyn bridge and stopping to eat at Grimaldi’s, Statue of Liberty, The High Line and Ground Zero. Would we need to book a table at Grimaldi or the ferry to see the Statue of Liberty? How about the Empire State? Thanks

May 6, 2019 at 11:28 am

Hi Karen, you should book your Statue of Liberty tickets in advance for sure. It’s best to buy tickets for the Empire State building to avoid lines. For wedding outfits, it depends on how formal the wedding is. For a general wedding (non-black tie), a tasteful A-line dress that goes to the knee with heels should be good! It’s a bit colder in NYC right now, so maybe a sweater with it. Hope that helps! Grimaldi doesn’t accept reservations as far as I know.

May 18, 2019 at 9:08 pm

Thankyou so much for your reply. That’s really useful!

May 25, 2019 at 1:22 pm

Such a great itinerary, covering all things fun in a not too rushed way !! Thanks for the insider tips, heading to NYC next week. Will keep in mind all your suggestions

May 29, 2019 at 10:45 pm

Hi, Loving all the tips on here! I have booked a surprise trip for my husband and our children aged 15 and 12 for end of October and I am struggling to work out the best way to get tickets to the top attractions, if I buy one of the passes does this mean I can’t book a specific time at the attractions and just have to turn up and hope we can get in? I know some have queue jumps with the but am I better off booking my tickets individually and directly with the attractions themselves?

May 30, 2019 at 3:19 am

Hi Clare, I personally prefer booking directly tickets directly myself so that I can just stroll in without the line. If you know where you want to go, it might end up being cheaper unless you intend to go to several of the really pricey ones (top of the rock, empire state building).

June 9, 2019 at 4:04 pm

I went to NYC last summer for the first time. Did all the “famous sights” and had an amazing time! This summer i am going back (again for a week) and cant wait to see the “lesser known” sights. This article was very helpful, i learned about a few new sights.

June 28, 2019 at 10:35 am

Hi Karen… loved reading your articles on NYC. My teen girls and I are coming for a week on July 2nd. We want to see some main attractions, but also want to experience some lesser known places the locals enjoy. Our hotel is in Chelsea, which seems to be a central location to see many things, I have a few of questions I can’t find answers to, and I hope you can help. 1. How can we enjoy a spectacular night view of the city when there are minors in our group and a rooftop bar isn’t an option? Are there alternatives for us? 2. We will be there during the 4th of July. Is there anything special we should know about? Are most attractions closed? Is there a good place to take my teens to get a good view of fireworks? 3. I am a disabled veteran (not wheelchair bound). Many times disabled veterans are able to visit attractions at a discount or free. Do you have any info on that or can point me in the right direction? Any money saved is a big help.

Thanks in advance, and I hope I hear back from you… Jean

July 11, 2019 at 10:27 pm

There’s some great ideas here that you don’t normally see in standard New York itineraries. I will definitely be using this, and your post on Brooklyn, as a base for my trip. Thanks!

July 30, 2019 at 6:59 am

Thank you so much, this post is a life saver and a great way to discover the city!

August 28, 2019 at 9:31 pm

My first search in looking at tips for visiting New York, reading all the comments this looks like a good start? Do you have an more detailed suggestions for Sports Food and Beer enthusiasts? Want to mix in what you have already stated with the aforementioned. Taking my wife for our yearly travel…..Oct 31st-Nov4th.

September 9, 2019 at 5:15 am

We are looking to stay in Manhattan for 7 days (in April mid/late 2020) and after seeing family in upstate NY were going to return for 7 days in Brooklyn (in early May 2020). Does this sound too long to you? And if not what would you add to the list? I really liked what you included but if you have any extra suggestions please feel free to add them. Especially if there are any markets, annual festivals, food tours, etc that you would recommend. Regards and thanks Tina

September 9, 2019 at 1:08 pm

Hi Tina, Definitely not too long! Look at my more recent posts that focus more on NY off the beaten path. I’ll be adding more content on Brooklyn soon. 🙂

September 15, 2019 at 12:21 pm

Hi, thanks for your great articles.. I find them really useful.. we’re planning on traveling to New York from the UK and will be there over Thanks Giving.. we know about the Macy’s parade, but I’m wondering how busy the rest of the city will be that day and will we need to make a reservation at a restaurant to guarantee a table Thanks

September 24, 2019 at 4:42 pm

Please search on my website for my guide for NYC for the Holidays!

October 23, 2019 at 6:12 pm

We are going to NY (1st time!) in a few weeks and I was trying quite desperately to prepare the trip. There is just too much to do, to see and to eat. But then … I found your blog! Many, many thanks! I got it all sorted out now 🙂 Just one question; Do you have a suggestion for a indian restaurant in Jackson Heights?

Thanks again for taking the time to write all of this! It’s very much appreciated 🙂

October 24, 2019 at 11:35 am

Glad to hear that Christine! It depends what kind of Indian food you’re looking for. I love dosas, so Dosa Delight might be a good pick. Definitely go for sweets after at Rajbhog

January 31, 2020 at 10:44 am

Hi, very well put together itinerary. I just wanted to know if there is a city pass that allow one to bypass queues and allow access to major sightseeing sights in NYC?

February 2, 2020 at 11:40 am

There is, but it’s not necessarily worth it depending on what attractions you plan on visiting. I recommend calculating if it’s worth it for you.

November 6, 2021 at 11:32 pm

Hi , thanks for the fab itinerary. We are planning to visit New York in February. Is it a good time and how cold is it in February. Is there anything that is closed in February?

March 17, 2022 at 9:59 pm

Christmas things will be closed, but most things should be open!

October 29, 2022 at 8:29 pm

Thanks for such a nice itinerary… SO, I have always said I can’t really celebrate my bday anywhere because its mid Jan 🙂 But I did decide to book a trip for 5 days in the Winter (OMG) – Bay Area Folks like myself have not experienced cold weather, that alone, need to figure out places to visit in NYC in the winter. Never been to NYC but hope that my 39th bday will be fun regardless of the cold

May 2, 2023 at 5:27 pm

Got 6 nights booked for new year’s and plan on doing a fair bit. We’re booking stuff already as there’s so much we want to do and visit. We also want to go up most of the iconic buildings purely to say been there because we don’t know when or if ever we’ll get a chance to go again. We’re in the UK so it’ll be like walking into a film set. We’re staying in midtown Manhattan and also want to go to Brooklyn. I’d like to pop across to Queensbridge because of the rappers from the 80’s and MC Shan’s ‘The Bridge’. Also the South Bronx because of Beat street. Not sure how safe a quick daytime visit would be to South Bronx?? Nervous and excited.

June 5, 2023 at 5:08 pm

You can do a tour of the South Bronx related to the rap history. That might be the safest option if you are nervous about it!

June 25, 2023 at 3:53 pm

i will like to go next year on July .i want to know if will be expensive ? on that time off the year many thanks

July 6, 2023 at 10:20 pm

It is always expensive

August 23, 2024 at 6:50 pm

Thanks Karen, for sharing this amazing blog.

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• New York City

How to Visit NYC on a Budget — From the Top Free Things to Do to Affordable Eats

Here's everything you need to know to plan a budget-friendly trip to NYC.

How to Save Money on Flights

How to find affordable accommodations, transportation in nyc, free and cheap things to do, eating on a budget.

Valerie de Leon/Travel + Leisure

While New York City is known for its high cost of living, a trip here doesn’t necessarily have to break the bank — as long as you’re equipped with the right tools and money-saving tricks. Sure, the city is home to some over-the-top hotels, tony restaurants, and designer boutiques, but it also boasts an abundance of free activities, affordable attractions, and cheap eats that are well worth a spot on your itinerary. Ahead, we’ve rounded up our top tips for planning a trip to New York City on a budget, including hand-picked personal recommendations and expert insights.

If you’re looking to save money on flights to NYC, it’s a good idea to set price alerts on sites like Skyscanner, Hopper, and Kayak. Google Flights also lets you track and compare flights to ensure you’re getting the best deal. According to Kayak , the cheapest times to fly to New York City are January and February, which also happen to coincide with the city’s low season, when cold, snowy weather tends to keep travelers away. Additionally, travel advisor Arlene Sealy tells Travel + Leisure that “flying on Tuesday or Wednesday is typically less expensive” and that “prices fluctuate with demand, so flying around the holiday or weekends is typically more expensive."

AJ Sharma/Travel + Leisure

A NYC hotel room doesn’t have to cost a small fortune — especially if you book well in advance and visit in the low or shoulder seasons. In addition, Sealy recommends joining a hotel rewards program to collect points you can redeem on NYC stays. You can search for hotels that provide discounted rates for AAA or AARP members; select properties may also offer promotions for military members, government personnel, or first responders. For example, Kimpton Hotel Eventi is located in the city’s vibrant Chelsea neighborhood — just a few blocks from Herald Square, the Empire State Building, and Madison Square Park — and offers value-packed amenities such as bike rentals, morning coffee and tea service, and a nightly hosted wine hour; AAA discounts are also available.

Additionally, keep in mind that you don’t necessarily need to stay in Manhattan to have an enjoyable trip. Budget-conscious travelers may opt to venture to one of the city’s four other boroughs. For example, The Rockaway Hotel + Spa — a sleek Rockaway Beach, Queens stay that made T+L’s 2021 It List featuring the best new hotels in the world — has under-$300 nightly rates in the off-season ( after Labor Day). Trust me: A stay here is worth it for the spa and rooftop alone.

Sealy also recommends using a travel advisor since “many times, [they] have special package rates not available to the general public.” Even if they don’t offer discounted rates, travel advisors can help you snag free perks like room upgrades, breakfast, or resort credits. Last but not least, it’s worth noting that most hotel rewards programs are free to join, and many times, travelers are privy to member rates plus perks that run the gamut from free Wi-Fi to late check-out.

Kelsea Watkins/Travel + Leisure

New York City's public transportation network is affordable and easy to access. It's $2.90 per ride on the city's many subways and bus lines, and people over 65 can get a discounted fare. I use OMNY , the MTA’s contactless fare payment method, since it saves me the hassle of carrying around a Metro Card. Using it is easy, too: Simply add a payment card to your digital wallet and tap your phone on the OMNY reader at the turnstile or on the bus.

Sealy also notes that the city is incredibly biker-friendly, and Citi Bikes are available for a small fee. There are over 1,700 Citi Bike stations across Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, Jersey City, and Hoboken. A day pass costs $19, while single half-hour rides are $4.79. The good thing about New York City is that it’s incredibly walkable — and arguably best explored on foot. Sealy says, “You’ll get to see more of the city and reach your step goal for the day.”

Alessandra Amodio/Travel + Leisure

From museum-hopping to exploring the city’s many parks and green spaces, there is no shortage of free things to do in NYC. You can easily spend an entire afternoon strolling around Central Park, where noteworthy stops include Strawberry Fields (which pays homage to John Lennon), the fairy tale-worthy Belvedere Castle, the Conservatory Garden, and Turtle Pond. While it’s not free to visit, the Central Park Zoo is an affordable activity (adult tickets are just under $20) too. And while Central Park is arguably the city’s most famous, other green spaces abound, including the High Line and Bryant Park. Outside of Manhattan, there’s the Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Gardens in Staten Island (the grounds are free to stroll), Prospect Park in Brooklyn, and Pelham Bay Park in the Bronx — the latter is more than three times the size of Central Park — all of which offer a calming reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the city. If you’re visiting in the summer months, consider a visit to one of New York City’s public beaches, including Rockaway Beach (Queens), Coney Island (Brooklyn), and Orchard Beach (The Bronx).

Several of the best New York City museums offer free or pay-as-you-wish admission on certain days and times. For example, the 9/11 Museum offers free admission on Mondays; tickets are available on the website each Monday at 7 a.m. and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Meanwhile, the acclaimed Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum offers pay-as-you-wish hours on Mondays and Saturdays from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m. (While not technically free, the minimum contribution is just $1.) You may also consider snagging a CityPASS , which allows travelers to save up to 40 percent on top attractions; admission to the Empire State Building and the American Museum of Natural History is included, as well.

The Statue of Liberty is another iconic NYC landmark. However, says Sealy, “If you want to see the Statue of Liberty, instead of spending the money and all day going to Ellis Island, take the Staten Island Ferry,” which is free, for a great view. Pro tip: “Make sure to go to the top of the ferry to enjoy the views and take amazing pictures!”

Lastly, while a Broadway show may seem out of budget, that’s not always the case. In fact, says Sealy, “If you make your way to Times Square to the TKTS booth , you can purchase same-day discounted show tickets.” Alternatively, if you can be flexible on show options, I recommend signing up for Broadway Roulette , which allows you to select your desired show date and number of tickets and spin a wheel to see which Broadway show it lands on. Best of all, tickets cost no more than $59.

In New York City, great food doesn’t have to be expensive. Sealy recommends strolling through Chinatown, which offers delicious eats at a reasonable price. Joe’s Shanghai is a personal favorite for its soup dumplings (eight for $14), while other popular spots include Uncle Lou , where you’ll find dim sum dishes like wontons and scallion pancakes for under $8, and Shanghai 21 , where many entrees clock in at under $20. However, you can still enjoy delicious Chinese cuisine at a reasonable cost outside of Chinatown at Wu’s Wonton King , a low-key, BYOB joint that’s especially popular among folks in the restaurant industry; don’t miss the roast suckling pig.

Pizza and bagels are pretty much synonymous with New York, and they’re both delicious and easy on the wallet. For an authentic slice, head to NY Pizza Suprema , beloved by the late Anthony Bourdain and hundreds, if not thousands, of others. While I’m partial to their upside-down slice, they have a robust menu of other options to choose from, too. Other local-loved NYC pizza joints include Joe’s (which has several locations), Prince Street Pizza (it’s worth waiting in line for their Sicilian-style square slices, including my personal favorite, the Spicy Spring), and L’Industrie . Sealy, meanwhile, loves Scarr’s Pizza , which offers whole pies or by-the-slice options, plus apps like vegan garlic knots and vegan Caesar salads. Otherwise, if it’s fresh bagels you’re after, look no further than Zucker’s , Utopia Bagels , Tal Bagels , Russ & Daughters , Black Seed Bagels , Bagel Pub , and the Insta-famous PopUp Bagels .

Lastly, it’s worth noting that many restaurants offer happy hour specials, which can be a great money-saving option. Located on the Lower East Side, The Ten Bells offers happy hour every day from opening until 7:00 p.m. featuring $1.50 oysters. $20 wine carafes, and under-$10 tapas like papas bravas, croquettes, and empanadas. Also nearby is The Gray Mare , where, from Monday-Friday from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m., customers can grab $6 beers, $10 cocktails, and $7 appetizers such as truffle fries, cauliflower wings, and artichoke dip. Meanwhile, the Mermaid Inn , a seafood-forward spot with several NYC locations, hosts happy hour every Tuesday to Sunday from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m. that includes $12 wines and cocktails and under-$10 apps like fish tacos, grilled shrimp and avocado sliders, and mini clam chowders. However, in my humble opinion, few happy hours are as great as the one found at Osteria Cotta on the Upper West Side. From Monday to Thursday from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. and Friday from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m., diners can take advantage of $9 cocktails, $5 beers, $7 wines, and $8 bites like personal pizzas and arancini.

Related Articles

36 Hours in Seattle

By Mike Seely Updated August 28, 2024

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By Mike Seely Photographs by Tegra Stone Nuess

Mike Seely, a lifelong Seattleite, is the former editor in chief of Seattle Weekly and the author of a book about the city’s dive bars.

If your exposure to Seattle is limited to postcards and reputation, then you know it for the Space Needle, Mount Rainier, coffee and rain. But today’s Seattle is ever evolving, filled with colorful neighborhoods beyond the museum-studded central districts. The University District, or U District, is home to more pioneering and enduring businesses than just about any other neighborhood. Laid-back West Seattle is the birthplace of the city , and Ballard, a live-music hub, is the historic heart of the region’s thriving commercial fishing industry. These three well-established — and occasionally underappreciated — neighborhoods, each with its own decades-old institutions, are emblematic of the Emerald City’s natural beauty, vibrant street life, and commitment to both preservation and progress, and are well worth spending a weekend exploring.

Recommendations

• Mike’s Chili Parlor is a century-old dive bar near Ballard’s shipping canal that serves meaty chili and cold Rainier beer in the shadow of gentrification.
• Tractor Tavern , the center of Seattle’s Americana music scene, is celebrating its 30th anniversary in Ballard this year.
• The Electric Boat Company , an eco-friendly boat rental service, allows visitors to slowly dodge the seaplanes landing on Lake Union, where views of the downtown skyline and Space Needle abound.
• Lincoln Park , a sprawling, wooded public area on West Seattle’s Puget Sound shore, has something for everyone, including a giant wooden troll named Bruun Idun.
• Hiram M. Chittenden Locks , a maritime marvel known to locals as the Ballard Locks, provides safe passage for commercial and recreational boats from Puget Sound to Seattle’s freshwater lakes.
• Burke Museum is a spacious center of natural history and cultural curiosities on the University of Washington campus where visitors can see archaeologists prepare fossils and other artifacts for the displays.
• Henry Art Gallery , on the southern side of the University of Washington campus, features some of the region’s more compelling contemporary art installations.
• Grand Illusion , Seattle’s oldest continuously running independent movie theater, shows eclectic art-house fare in a converted dentist’s office in the U District.
• Duwamish Longhouse and Cultural Center is an attractive cedar longhouse in West Seattle that exposes visitors to the moving story of some of Seattle's earliest inhabitants, the Duwamish Tribe.
• Desmond Hansen’s Traffic Signal Boxes , scattered throughout West Seattle, are adorned with paintings of famous and influential people, many with local ties.
• Hattie’s Hat is a 120-year-old Ballard Avenue restaurant and bar that’s perfect for a nightcap while you wait out the ride-hailing rush after the final tune at the Tractor Tavern.
• Cafe Allegro , in a U District alley, is Seattle’s oldest espresso bar.
• Thai Tom is a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it, 30-year-old University Way institution that draws lovers of Asian cuisine from all over the metropolitan area.
• The Neptune Theater is a former U District movie theater that’s been transformed into one of Seattle’s most indispensable midsize live music and performance spaces.
• The Mountaineering Club is a rooftop hotel bar and restaurant in the U District that offers 360-degree views of nearby mountain ranges, lakes and the downtown skyline.
• Atoma , a high-end restaurant in a Wallingford bungalow, specializes in shareable plates and a memorable, cheese-filled cookie.
• University District Neighborhood Farmers Market attracts thousands every Saturday for its fresh produce and street-food vendors.
• Bulldog News is a long-running U District newsstand with hundreds of magazine titles that also serves espresso and ice cream.
• The Woolly Mammoth is a University Way shoe store that’s a go-to spot for Birkenstock aficionados.
• Red Light Vintage is a lively used-clothing store near the University of Washington with a wide selection of cheeky trucker hats, throwback concert tees, flannels and cowboy boots.
• Gargoyles Statuary is a dark, cozy U District storefront that sells Gothic statues and local art.
• Easy Street Records is a hybrid record store and diner in the heart of West Seattle where it wouldn’t be unusual to bump into a member of Pearl Jam.
• Ballard Inn , a 102-year-old boutique hotel on bustling Ballard Avenue, affords guests access to the Olympic Athletic Club’s basketball court, workout equipment and saunas, across the street, and is close to a multitude of restaurants and shops. Rooms run from $138 for a twin bed with a shared bathroom, and from $249 for a king bed with an en suite.
• Graduate Seattle , home to the Mountaineering Club and its 360-degree rooftop view of the city, lakes and mountains, is a Hilton property that features a hip, spacious lobby in the heart of the U District. Rooms start at around $275.
• The Grove , a motel-like lodging option dating to 1962, reopened under its current ownership in 2011 and has been spiffed up considerably. It is within walking distance of Easy Street Records and West Seattle’s vibrant Alaska Junction commercial core. Perks are available for nearby restaurants and recreational experiences. Rooms start at around $144.
• For short-term rentals , there are plenty of options in or near Ballard, the U District or West Seattle. Inventory can be in short supply during summer and early fall.
• Most Seattle neighborhoods, including Ballard and the U District, are easily explored on foot , with a network of Bird and Lime scooters and bicycles available for longer excursions. The Link light rail serves the U District and downtown Seattle, among other neighborhoods, while Ballard and West Seattle can be reached by bus or water taxi . While all major national rental car companies operate out of Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, Enterprise offers a number of neighborhood outposts. Ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft might be more reliable within the city, but it can be cheaper and quicker to take a cab from the airport to wherever you’re staying for the weekend.

Start your weekend exploring the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks , or the Ballard Locks, a more-than-century-old engineering marvel, set amid the Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Garden in the northwest Ballard neighborhood. Operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers since 1917, the complex series of locks separates the saltwater Puget Sound from the freshwater Lake Union and Lake Washington, while providing safe passage for an estimated 50,000 commercial and recreational boats each year. Witnessing the mechanics of adjusting water levels for vessels of all sizes in real time is awe-inspiring. The locks are crossable on foot: Kids and adults alike will get a kick out of watching the boat traffic, while an underwater fish ladder affords a close-up view of migratory salmon that swim upstream along its “steps” (free).

Soak up history at Mike’s Chili Parlor , whose story began in the 1920s when a Greek immigrant named Mike Semandiris started selling chili to maritime workers out of a cart on the ship canal. The Chili, as it’s known, soon moved to a brick building two blocks away, where it remains, having turned down handsome buyout offers from developers in recent decades. Today’s Mike (Mr. Semandiris’s great-grandson) still serves jalapeño-, cheese- and minced-onion-topped chili bowls ($7 for regular size, $19 for the “big-ass” version) alongside ice-cold pours of Rainier beer ($6 pint, $15 pitcher; cash only, A.T.M. on site, 21 and over). For a more updated dining experience, Secret Savory , a Thai bar and restaurant, and Rupee Bar , a Sri Lankan-focused eatery that won a James Beard Award for design, are two newer establishments that show off the modern-day breadth of Ballard’s culinary scene.

Hattie’s Hat

It doesn’t matter who’s playing at the Tractor Tavern : The programming at this 400-capacity, country-tinged music club, adorned with tires, black-and-white photos and a longhorn skull, on Ballard Avenue is so reliably stellar that a great night out is more or less a guarantee. The Tractor is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a yearlong series of 30 special shows: Coming up are performances by Southern Culture on the Skids (Aug. 30) and Fred Eaglesmith (Oct. 5); tickets $15 to $32, 21 and over. If you’ve got energy left after the encore, wait out the ride-hailing rush over a Miller High Life ($5) at Hattie’s Hat , a 120-year-old dive bar and restaurant a few doors down from the Tractor, open until 2 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

A leisurely evening at Golden Gardens Park, overlooking Puget Sound in Ballard, might include swimming, beach games and bonfires.

Bulldog News

Grab an iced Americano ($3) and catch up on your reading at Bulldog News , whose slogan is “Where your neighborhood meets the world,” open on University Way, a.k.a. “the Ave,” since 1983. Today, the cafe and shop carries hundreds of magazine titles and does brisk business slinging coffee drinks while also functioning as a community cultural hub. (You can also check out Seattle’s oldest espresso bar, Cafe Allegro , open since 1975, right around the corner.) Then stroll up the road to the University District Neighborhood Farmers Market , which attracts thousands of visitors every Saturday to its 90 or so stands. Toe the line between breakfast and lunch with a serving of misir wat, a red lentil stew with injera flatbread ($13), at Geni’s Ethiopian .

Rent an enviro-friendly watercraft from the Electric Boat Company to take out on Lake Union, a relatively short drive away from the U District. The boats have a mellow cruising speed of seven miles per hour and are easy to captain on this distinctly urban lake, which offers views of the Seattle skyline, the Space Needle, Gas Works Park and St. Mark’s Episcopal Cathedral . If you spot a seaplane that looks as though it’s about to land on the roof of a boat, rest assured that these adroit pilots are aiming to hit a patch of vacant water. Boat drivers must be at least 25 and watch a short safety video. Prices start at $238 for a two-hour rental for up to six passengers, with options for up to 12.

Back on the Ave, Thai Tom is a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it, 30-year-old institution that attracts regulars from all over the metropolitan area. Named for its founder , Tom Suanpirintra, who died in 2021, Thai Tom emits an air of controlled chaos. There are multiple burners ablaze at all times, as the hard-working chef fires up dishes like spicy broccoli, panang curry and pad Thai. Despite somewhat cramped surroundings, it always feels as if you’re in on a delicious secret when visiting Thai Tom, even if it’s one of the worst-kept secrets in town (entrees, $13.75; spring rolls, $8.50; cash only).

Burke Museum

While the massive model dinosaurs at the University of Washington’s recently rebuilt Burke Museum are likeliest to catch kids’ eyes, visitors to this repository of natural and historical artifacts are able to watch its employees work. You might see, for example, a paleontologist dusting the dirt off a fossil before it goes on display (adults, $22; kids, $14). Toward the southern end of campus is the Henry Art Gallery , long known for hosting some of the region’s more compelling contemporary art installations. See “ Lucy Kim: Mutant Optics ,” an installation in which the artist uses the bacteria cells that produce melanin to create printed images of vanilla plants, in a commentary on that global spice trade (through Feb. 2, 2025). Admission is free, though donations are suggested.

Red Light Vintage

Seattleites have long had a robust appetite for Birkenstocks, and no store is as reliably stocked with these sandals as the Woolly Mammoth , on the Ave, where the focus on footwear and customer service has kept people coming back since 1970. A few blocks up the street is Red Light Vintage , with a large selection of cheeky trucker hats, throwback concert tees, flannels and cowboy boots. One of Red Light’s closest neighbors, Gargoyles Statuary , is a dark, cozy store that truly embodies the Ave’s funky spirit with spooky wares like Gothic art, pagan knickknacks and sculptures of various sizes.

The Mountaineering Club

Ascend the Graduate Seattle , a 93-year-old Art Deco hotel tower in the U District, to reach the Mountaineering Club , a restaurant and bar with rooftop seating and 360-degree views of the downtown skyline and its natural surroundings. (Its name is inspired by the Mountaineers , a turn-of-the-20th-century outdoors organization founded in Seattle.) Its cocktails, such as a Spokane 75, tinged with lemon, pomegranate and orange blossom ($17), may make drinkers feel as if they are committed tipplers roughing it in the woodlands (21 and over after 6 p.m.). For dinner, venture one neighborhood over to Wallingford’s Atoma , a high-end restaurant inside a bungalow-style home with a buoyant, casual vibe and ingredients fetched from the U District farmers’ market. The rosette cookie ($7), a savory fritter filled with cheese, is a must-order to start.

Opened in 1970 in a converted dentist’s office, the U District’s Grand Illusion was Seattle’s first celluloid art house and stands today as the city’s oldest continuously running independent movie theater. Now operated by Northwest Film Forum, it features a calendar of films (tickets, $11) that is fabulously eclectic, appealing to fans of documentaries, anime, indie dramas and underappreciated classics. For those seeking a less sedentary way to top off their Saturday, an even older movie theater a few blocks away, the Neptune , has been transformed into a live music and performance space (tickets typically $25 to $45) that hosts an eclectic mix of national touring acts. You can still order popcorn, though.

Luna Girls, a public artwork by Lezlie Jane, in Seacrest Park in West Seattle. The park offers scenic views of downtown Seattle across the bay.

Bruun Idun in Lincoln Park

Sundays often scream “day trip,” and Seattle is fortunate enough, within its city limits, to have an easily accessible peninsula that feels hours away even though it’s only a short drive (or water taxi trip) from downtown. West Seattle is blessed with a sandy shore at Alki Beach Park , a laid-back vibe and the majestic Lincoln Park , a sprawling, wooded public area overlooking Puget Sound that offers something for everyone — forest trails, ball fields, playgrounds, picnic shelters near a rocky beach and a giant troll named Bruun Idun, who arrived in 2023. The wooden sculpture, near the public, saltwater Colman Pool , is one of five trolls in the Greater Seattle area designed by the Danish artist Thomas Dambo to celebrate both Scandinavian and Native American traditions.

Easy Street Records

Don’t be surprised if you catch Eddie Vedder, the lead singer of Pearl Jam and a West Seattleite, sifting through an ample collection of LPs at Easy Street Records , a record shop and affordable diner , operating since 1988 in the Alaska Junction, West Seattle’s central commercial district. Once you’ve found your treasures, order the Horton Heat Hash (corned beef, bacon, onions, peppers, hash browns, eggs, toast, $15) or the Dolly Parton Stack (two pancakes, two strips of bacon, two eggs, $12). For diners who prefer chicken shawarma ($14) to chicken-fried steak, Falafel Salam has graduated from West Seattle’s farmers’ market to a brick-and-mortar space on California Avenue (opens at 11 a.m.).

As you make your way through West Seattle, look for Desmond Hansen ’s painted traffic signal boxes, which feature portraits of noteworthy Seattleites like the martial-arts star Bruce Lee and the musicians Ray Charles, Chris Cornell, Ann and Nancy Wilson of Heart, and Jimi Hendrix. Learn the story of some of Seattle’s original inhabitants, the Duwamish Tribe , who signed a treaty in 1855 granting the United States government 54,000 acres in exchange for health care, education, fishing rights and land. That treaty has never been properly honored, but the tribe has persevered, opening up the Duwamish Longhouse and Cultural Center , a cedar structure near the Duwamish River, in which visitors are exposed to the tribe’s moving history and can learn of various ways to support its efforts today (free admission).

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

D enver: The city is undergoing a rebirth , with a newly refreshed Union Station and the gradual reopening of the mile-long, pedestrian-friendly 16th Street Mall to go along with views of the snow-capped Front Range.

Amtrak’s Empire Builder Route :  Most people who take the 4,000-mile journey from Chicago to Seattle will just watch the heartland whiz by. Our writer hopped off to explore six places you might otherwise miss .

Provincetown, Mass.:  Located at the tip of Cape Cod, P-town (as locals call it) has overlapping — and sometimes competing — identities : one of America’s oldest art colonies, nature preserve, thriving L.G.B.T.Q. resort and historic Portuguese fishing village.

Lake Como, Italy:  Stars like George Clooney frequent this scenic corner of northern Italy, but you might be surprised by how affordable it can be. Here’s an insider’s guide .

South of France:  Horses, bulls and birds of all types live among the pink marshes of the Camargue, a rugged landscape shaped  by the relentless push and pull of sea and river.

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Royal family - news: Prince Harry’s next trip revealed as Meghan struggles to find CEO ahead of brand launch

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Prince Harry’s next high-profile trip will be to New York – and Meghan Markle will not be joining him, his representatives have confirmed.

Harry , who turns 40 on 15 September, will travel to the Big Apple for the UN General Assembly High-level Week and Climate Week .

The events are taking place after the Duke of Sussex ’s milestone birthday, with Climate Week beginning on 22 September and High-Level Week kicking off the day after.

“Advancing a number of his patronages and philanthropic initiatives,” a spokesperson for the duke said he will “participate in engagements with African Parks, The HALO Trust, The Diana Award, and Travalyst.”

He will also “be furthering the work of The Archewell Foundation , the nonprofit organisation he co-founded with his wife Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex.”

This comes amid the revelation that Meghan Markle is struggling to find a CEO for her new luxury lifestyle brand American Riviera Orchard ahead of its launch.

A source told Closer magazine: “The brutal reality is Harry and Meghan are the toughest of taskmasters, they are very demanding and difficult to work for, and that puts a lot of people’s backs up.”

Queen Camilla’s patronage of Rifle Association ‘a huge privilege’

Following the news that Queen Camilla has become the first patron of The Rifle Association , her support has been described as a “huge privilege”.

The queen consort will now be known as the Colonel-in-Chief of The Rifles.

The organisation helps veterans, serving soldiers and their families by providing friendship, support and help when needed.

Lieutenant General Tom Copinger-Symes, Colonel Commandant The Rifles, said: “This is a huge privilege for the regiment and highlights Her Majesty’s care, commitment and understanding for the wellbeing of our soldiers and their families.

“We are honoured that she has chosen to offer her patronage to all our Riflemen and their families.”

The queen’s patronage comes after her late father, Major Bruce Shand, served in the regiment.

Harry and Meghan will explain royal roots to children ‘in time'

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle reportedly plan to tell their children about their royal status “in time” so that they can live relatively normal childhoods.

This comes following reports that Harry overruled Meghan when it came to featuring Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet in her upcoming Netflix cooking show.

The children will now not be featured.

A family friend told US Weekly : “William’s kids, for example, have way more safety, even though they’re recognisable. And the same doesn’t apply to Meghan and Harry’s children.

“They know the world wants to see [them, but] I would expect them to live smaller lives until that gets sorted, if it ever does.”

“They’ll have those conversations in due time,” the source added of the children’s royal ancestry.

Queen Camilla becomes first patron of The Rifleman’s Association

Queen Camilla has become the first patron of The Rifleman’s Association , it has been revealed.

The announcement was shared on the official royal family Twitter/X account in a post that read: “The Queen has become the first Patron of The Rifleman’s Association.

“The organisation offers a forum for serving and veteran Riflemen of all ranks, along with their families, to stay connected with the regiment, providing friendship, support, and assistance.”

The Queen, has become the first Patron of The Rifleman’s Association. 🤝 The organisation offers a forum for serving and veteran Riflemen of all ranks, along with their families, to stay connected with the regiment, providing friendship, support, and assistance. @BritishArmy … pic.twitter.com/rEjN4uAcFD — The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) August 29, 2024

Meghan Markle uses ‘global spotlight’ to sell clothes

The Duchess of Sussex has revealed that she uses her “global spotlight” to publicise designers she cares about.

Describing it as one of the “most powerful” things she can do, she said that her profile is a great opportunity to highlight creators who are not necessarily getting the attention they deserve.

Meghan, 43, told The New York Times : “Times where I know there is a global spotlight, and attention will be given to each detail of what I may or may not be wearing, then I support designers that I have really great friendships with, and smaller, up-and-coming brands that haven’t gotten the attention that they should be getting.

“That’s one of the most powerful things that I’m able to do, and that’s simply wearing, like, an earring.”

Queen Elizabeth II ‘brutally snubbed’ Harry and Meghan

The late Queen Elizabeth II “brutally snubbed” the Duke and Duchess of Sussex ahead of their decision to step down as working royals.

Royal author Obid Scobie explained that during her Christmas broadcast, the Sussexes were notably absent from the family photographs on the monarch ’s desk – a move that left them “furious”.

“One didn’t have to look further than the family photos displayed during the Queen’s Speech on Christmas Day,” the author wrote.

“In the Green Drawing Room at Buckingham Palace, where the Queen delivered her address, viewers glimpsed photos of the [Waleses] and their children, Charles and Camilla, Prince Philip, and a black-and-white image of George VI.”

Animal rights protestor calls on King Charles to ask for ‘plant-based food system'

An animal rights protestor who was found guilty of damaging a Buckingham Palace water fountain has called on King Charles to ask the public to adopt a plant-based diet.

Citing the monarch’s passion for the environment , Louis McKechnie, 23, who was yesterday charged with criminal damage for dying the Queen Victoria Memorial Fountain red in 2021, said: “We did this because we think the royal family still has a responsibility to this day to step up and show true leadership.

“If Charles claims to be, you know, a climate-conscious King, he’s got to show it, surely.

“He barks the right stuff, but where is his bite? I’m not seeing it. It starts with calling for a plant-based food system.

“King Charles, that’s our message to him – call for a plant-based food system if you really care about any of the things you claim to.”

Harry and Meghan’s struggle to find staff to work ‘under them'

A royal expert has speculated that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle ’s issues finding and retaining staff will not be ending any time soon.

This comes amid reports that Meghan’s new lifestyle brand, American Riviera Orchard , is struggling to find a CEO.

Kinsey Schofield said: “I do think that they’re going to continue to have a hard time finding people that want to work underneath them. I’m intimidated just thinking about it.

“A source also told Closer magazine that Harry and Meghan are ‘pretty tough’.”

Princess of Wales ‘more fun than the image that is presented'

The Princess of Wales ’s true nature is a lot “more fun” than her public persona, royal biographer Rob Jobson has claimed.

This comes after the Duchess of Sussex said that the royals’ “formality on the outside” was also reflected on the inside.

Mr Jobson told OK! magazine: “I think that she’s a lot more fun than the image that is presented.

“The image that’s presented is a bit of an enigma, I think, but she’s a lot more fun. [She] doesn’t really like to let her guard down.”

The biographer added: “She laughs a lot and I think anybody who laughs a lot is obviously somebody who’s got that sense of humour, and someone’s one with themselves, and I think she certainly is that.”

Duke of Edinburgh cheers on Team GB at Paralympics

The Duke of Edinburgh has also shared his good wishes for Team GB as the Paralympic Games begin today.

Prince Edward, who is patron of the British Paralympic Association, wrote on the official royal family Twitter/X account: “To all members of the @ParalympicsGB team heading for Paris, whether athletes, officials or staff, I want to wish you the very best of luck at the Paralympic Games.”

🏅To all members of the @ParalympicsGB team heading for Paris, whether athletes, officials or staff, I want to wish you the very best of luck at the Paralympic Games. -The Duke of Edinburgh, Patron of the British Paralympic Association pic.twitter.com/fsjTr1Xcnr — The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) August 28, 2024

William and Kate wish Team GB good luck at Paralympics

The Prince and Princess of Wales have shared their good wishes for Team GB as the Paralympic Games begin today.

Taking to Twitter/X, the couple wrote on the official Kensington Palace account: “Looking forward to another few weeks of incredible sport!

“Wishing the very best of luck to our @ParalympicsGB athletes and all those competing at #Paris2024. W & C”

Looking forward to another few weeks of incredible sport! Wishing the very best of luck to our @ParalympicsGB athletes and all those competing at #Paris2024 . W & C https://t.co/5epHiMOpXv — The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) August 28, 2024

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