New York-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Midtown Manhattan

  • Morning: Arrive at one of New York City’s three major airports (JFK, LGA, or EWR) and take a taxi or ride-hailing service to your hotel.
  • Hotel Suggestion: Pod Hotel Brooklyn (starting at $150/night) or YOTEL New York (starting at $200/night)
  • Lunch: Grab a slice of classic New York-style pizza at Lombardi’s Pizza (32 Spring St, Little Italy) or Joe’s Pizza (7 Carmine St, Greenwich Village).
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the iconic Times Square and take in the bright lights and giant billboards.
    • Walk to the nearby Empire State Building (350 5th Ave) for panoramic views of the city from its observation deck ( tickets start at $34/person).
  • Evening: Catch a Broadway show or explore the lively nightlife scene in Hell’s Kitchen.

Day 2: Central Park and the Upper East Side

  • Morning: Start the day with breakfast at Sarabeth’s (1295 6th Ave, Midtown West) or Levain Bakery (167 W 74th St, Upper West Side).
  • Central Park:
    • Walk through the scenic Central Park, exploring its many paths, lakes, and landmarks like the Bethesda Fountain and Loeb Boathouse.
    • Rent a bike and ride through the park for a unique perspective.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a classic New York-style bagel with lox at Russ & Daughters Cafe (127 Orchard St, Lower East Side) or try a gourmet burger at J.G. Melon (1291 3rd Ave, Upper East Side).
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art (1000 5th Ave), one of the world’s largest and most famous museums.
    • Explore the upscale boutiques and galleries along Madison Avenue.

Day 3: 9/11 Memorial and Downtown Manhattan

  • Morning: Start the day with breakfast at Ess-a-Bagel (359 1st Ave, Gramercy) or Balthazar Bakery (80 Spring St, SoHo).
  • 9/11 Memorial & Museum:
    • Visit the poignant National September 11 Memorial & Museum (180 Greenwich St), located at the site of the former World Trade Center.
    • Take a moment to reflect at the two massive reflecting pools surrounded by the names of those who were killed in the 2001 terrorist attacks.
  • Lunch: Try a classic New York-style deli sandwich at Katz’s Delicatessen (205 E Houston St, Lower East Side) or enjoy seafood at The Oyster Bar (Grand Central Terminal, 89 E 42nd St).
  • Afternoon:
    • Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge for spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline and the East River.
    • Explore the trendy boutiques and art galleries in the DUMBO neighborhood.

Day 4: Iconic NYC Landmarks

  • Morning: Start the day with breakfast at the iconic Sarabeth’s (1295 6th Ave, Midtown West) or try a classic New York-style diner experience at Ellen’s Stardust Diner (1650 Broadway, Times Square).
  • Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island:
    • Take a ferry to Liberty Island to see up close the iconic Statue of Liberty (tickets start at $21.50/person).
    • Visit the Ellis Island Immigration Museum to learn about the history of immigration in the United States.
  • Lunch: Enjoy classic New York-style street food from vendors or try a slice of pizza at Patsy’s Pizzeria (236 W 75th St, Upper West Side).

Day 5: Brooklyn and Williamsburg

  • Morning: Start the day with breakfast at the trendy Cafe Grumpy (193 Meserole Ave, Greenpoint) or enjoy artisanal donuts at Dun-Well Doughnuts (222 Montrose Ave, East Williamsburg).
  • Williamsburg:
    • Explore the vibrant street art scene and independent boutiques along Bedford Avenue.
    • Visit the Brooklyn Brewery (79 N 11th St) for a tour and tasting of their famous craft beers.
  • Lunch: Try classic Jewish deli cuisine at Russ & Daughters Cafe (127 Orchard St, Lower East Side) or enjoy gourmet grilled cheese at The Commodore (637 Driggs Ave, Williamsburg).

Day 6: Upper West Side and Lincoln Center

  • Morning: Start the day with breakfast at Levain Bakery (167 W 74th St, Upper West Side) or try a classic New York-style bagel at Ess-a-Bagel (359 1st Ave, Gramercy).
  • American Museum of Natural History:
    • Visit the iconic American Museum of Natural History (200 Central Park West), home to over 30 million specimens.
    • Explore the many exhibits, including dinosaur fossils and a giant blue whale.
  • Lunch: Enjoy classic New York-style diner food at Ellen’s Stardust Diner (1650 Broadway, Times Square) or try gourmet burgers at The Smith (956 2nd Ave, Midtown East).

Day 7: Last Day in NYC

  • Morning: Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring a new neighborhood.
  • Brunch: Enjoy a classic New York-style brunch at Sarabeth’s (1295 6th Ave, Midtown West) or try eggs benedict at The Russian Tea Room (150 W 52nd St, Midtown West).
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit the iconic Grand Central Terminal (89 E 42nd St), one of the world’s largest and most famous train stations.
    • Take a stroll through the beautiful Bryant Park (6th Ave between 40th and 42nd Streets).

Things to Know:

  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular attractions.
  • Tip your servers, bartenders, and taxi drivers – it’s customary in NYC!
  • Use public transportation or walk/bike whenever possible to avoid traffic congestion.
  • Don’t forget to try some of the amazing street food available throughout the city!

Transportation:

  • Subway: The most efficient way to get around the city. Buy a MetroCard for $3 and ride as many times as you like.
  • Bus: A great option for shorter distances or when the subway isn’t available.
  • Taxi/Ride-hailing: Convenient, but be prepared for traffic and higher prices.
  • Bike: Rent a bike and explore the city on two wheels!

Tips and Tricks:

  • Use Google Maps to navigate the city – it’s incredibly accurate!
  • Take advantage of happy hour deals at bars and restaurants to save money.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help or directions from locals – New Yorkers are known for their hospitality!
  • Try to avoid eating at chain restaurants in favor of local, family-owned eateries.

Other Things to Do:

  • Visit the Top of the Rock Observation Deck (30 Rockefeller Plaza) for stunning views of the city.
  • Take a sunset cruise around Manhattan or visit the Brooklyn Botanic Garden for some greenery.
  • Explore the many museums and art galleries throughout the city – there’s something for everyone!

This itinerary is just a starting point, and you can customize it to fit your interests and preferences. Enjoy your time in New York City!