United States 5 Day Itinerary

5-Day Itinerary for Travelling in the United States

Day 1: Arrival in New York City and Exploring Manhattan

  • Morning: Arrive at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) or Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
  • Afternoon: Check-in to your hotel and freshen up
  • Evening: Explore Times Square, visit the iconic Empire State Building, and take a stroll through Central Park

Things to Know:

  • New York City is a bustling metropolis with 24/7 activity; be prepared for crowds and noise
  • Be aware of pedestrian traffic laws and follow signs and signals
  • Try a classic New York-style pizza slice at one of the many pizzerias throughout the city

Day 2: Liberty Island, 9/11 Memorial & Museum, and Brooklyn Bridge

  • Morning: Take a ferry to Liberty Island to visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
  • Afternoon: Visit the National September 11 Memorial & Museum
  • Evening: Walk across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge for spectacular city views

Things to Know:

  • Book ferry tickets in advance to ensure availability
  • The 9/11 Memorial & Museum can be an emotional experience; allow time for reflection
  • Be prepared for security checks at popular attractions

Day 3: Washington, D.C.

  • Morning: Take a bus or train to Washington, D.C. (approximately 4 hours)
  • Afternoon: Visit the National Mall, including the Lincoln Memorial and World War II Memorial
  • Evening: Explore the vibrant Georgetown neighborhood

Things to Know:

  • The National Mall can be quite crowded; plan accordingly and stay hydrated
  • Be respectful of monuments and memorials
  • Try a classic American diner experience in Georgetown

Day 4: Smithsonian Museums and Arlington National Cemetery

  • Morning: Visit the National Museum of Natural History or National Air and Space Museum
  • Afternoon: Pay respects at Arlington National Cemetery
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of D.C.’s many international restaurants

Things to Know:

  • The Smithsonian museums are free, but some exhibitions may require timed-entry tickets
  • Be prepared for security checks at the cemetery
  • Try a Ben’s Chili Bowl half-smoke, a D.C. staple

Day 5: Return to New York City and Departure

  • Morning: Take a bus or train back to New York City (approximately 4 hours)
  • Afternoon: Spend time shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute attractions
  • Evening: Depart from JFK or EWR airports

Visa Requirements:

  • Depending on your country of origin, you may need a visa to enter the United States
  • Check with the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs for specific requirements

Transportation:

  • Subway: An efficient and affordable way to navigate New York City and Washington, D.C.
  • Bus/Train: Convenient options for longer distances between cities
  • Taxi/Ride-hailing: Available, but be aware of surge pricing during peak hours

Other Things of Interest:

  • Try a classic American breakfast diner experience
  • Take in a Broadway show or live music performance
  • Explore the diverse neighborhoods and cuisine of New York City and Washington, D.C.
  • Consider purchasing a city-specific attractions pass for discounts and convenience