city trip new york

The Ultimate New York Travel Guide 2024

Our new york travel tips for first time visitors.

Are you traveling to New York for the first time and want to get an overview of what you should pay attention to? Here, I show you step by step the most important information you need to know for your New York trip. There’s a lot to see and do in New York, from world-famous landmarks like the Empire State Building to a wide selection of unique museums and New York-style foods that you should definitely try.

Everything you need!

Hello you 👋 Here you will find everything you need for your New York trip!

These are our best New York Travel Tips for first time visitors:

Table of Contents

New York at a Glance

Best time to travel to new york.

Visiting New York is worthwhile at any time of year, but I personally like the warm months best. Summer in New York can be very hot and humid. So, for many, the best times to visit New York is April and June, and September and October.

Spending Christmas in New York or enjoying the pre-Christmas season in New York City is also a wonderful experience. The ice rinks are open, the city is beautifully decorated, and, if it snows, the dream vacation at wintertime is perfect!

Paying in New York

You can pay for almost everything with your credit card, even the smallest amounts. Credit cards are accepted in hotels, stores, restaurants, and bars. Don’t have one yet? Then, check out the best credit card to have in the USA here.

New York for First Time Visitors: Everything You Need to Know for Your Trip (70+ pages)

Best Way to Travel in New York

Finding your way around New York is quite easy, even if it doesn’t look like it at first. The streets’ checkerboard pattern makes finding your way around easy. These are the best ways to get around New York:

Metro / Subway: If you have longer distances ahead of you, then the Subway is your friend, because here you can travel really cheap. It’s easy to use! The MetroCard is available at every Subway station. You can buy single rides or the popular MetroCard for 7 days; that way you can travel for a week in New York at a fixed price. You can learn more about using the Metrocard in New York here.

Taxi: In New York, you can choose between the Yellow Cab and Uber. You can check out our tips and all the information you need to know in our following blog: Taxi in New York City .

By bike: With many of the New York sightseeing passes (you can find out more about this budget tip in my New York Pass comparison ), the bike rental is included. We ourselves really love using New York’s Citi Bikes. This city bike program has over 1,000 stations throughout New York City, and it’s super-cheap. We’ll show you how it works in the Citi Bike New York article.

On Foot: You’ll be surprised how much walking you’ll do in New York. After all, there’s something to see on every corner. So be sure to bring comfortable shoes!

Where to Stay in New York?

Which neighborhood is best for you depends on several things: your interests, how close you want to be to the attractions and what your travel budget is. In the image below, I’ve drawn you my favorite neighborhoods of New York including the main attractions nearby.

And, on the subject of safety: In all of Manhattan, the Bronx , Brooklyn, and large parts of Queens, you don’t have to worry about being out and about in the evening. New York City is one of the safest cities in the world!

More than 100 hotels and over 70 neighborhoods to choose from –and after just 4 quick questions, I’ll show you which hotels in New York are best suited for you!

Where Should you Stay in New York?

Manhattan – it doesn’t get more central than this: Manhattan is the most famous borough of them all. Plus, it contains 95% of all the attractions New York is known for. Everything is within easy reach, and you are right in the middle of it all. On the other hand, the hotels are a bit more expensive than in Brooklyn or Queens .

Here, you can find my 33 hotel tips for Manhattan .

Brooklyn – urban and relaxed: For a long time, Brooklyn was the insider’s tip: now it’s “completely” normal neighborhoods. However, you’ll quickly notice one thing: life is much more normal, because it’s more of a residential area. It’s super relaxed, pleasant, and just as diverse as Manhattan. Above all, you can enjoy the Manhattan skyline from here!

Here, you can find my 20 hotel tips for Brooklyn .

Queens – the new trendy neighborhood: Queens is a bit more “normal” than Brooklyn is, but, lately, we’ve noticed that it is getting more and more gentrified. The hotels in Long Island City (not to be confused with Long Island!) are especially popular because they are cheaper compared to Manhattan—and they have a perfect connection to the Subway, which makes Queens a great alternative to Manhattan and Brooklyn.

Here, you can find my 20 hotel tips for Queens .

What to See in New York?

One thing to know in advance: just because there is so much to see in New York, a little planning makes absolute sense. For highlights like the Empire State Building ( here ), the Edge Hudson Yards observation deck ( here ) or the One World Observatory ( here ), I recommend buying the tickets online in advance. This will not only save you waiting time on site, but you can also be sure that you will actually be able to visit your desired sights.

👉 These are our 33 best attractions in New York .

These are my tips after more than 20 visits to New York:

Observation decks: New York City has no less than five (!) major observation decks to offer, and each one is a dream in itself. My two favorites are The Edge Hudson Yards and the One World Observatory , because from here you have a sensational view of New York from above and you can see the Empire State Building . From the end of 2021, another cool option will be added with the glass One Vanderbilt . One more thing about the Empire State Building: It’s the most visited observation deck in New York, so it’s always busy. Avoid the crowds in the morning – and if you really want to go to the Empire State Building in the evening, choose Thursday, Friday or Saturday. During those times, a saxophonist plays on the observation deck. Important: book the Skip-the-Line-Tickets (you can do that here). Then, you can easily save 1-2 hours of waiting time!
Visit the Statue of Liberty : The trip from Battery Park to the Statue of Liberty is super-popular. To save yourself long waiting times, make sure you take the first ferry of the day. Here, you can find the best Statue of Liberty Cruises right now.
Definitely take a boat tour , because seeing New York from the water is like being on vacation. Choices range from the free Staten Island Ferry or the NYC Ferry ($2.90 each way) to sailing tours (gorgeous) and the classic sightseeing tours that are included with all major New York passes.
Walk along the High Line from the Meatpacking District to Hudson Yards .
Visit Times Square in the evening – that’s when it’s at its most impressive.
Relax in Central Park or Bryant Park .
Plan a maximum of three attractions per day . After all, you don’t want any sightseeing stress.

The 41 Absolute Best New York Attractions In 2024

10 FREE Things to Do in New York City

The 36 Absolute Best Museums in New York

The 9 best observation decks in new york city, new york budget tip.

With the right New York sightseeing pass , you can easily save a lot of money on up to 100 tours and attractions. To find out if a New York Pass is worth it (or not), check out our free New York Pass Advisor to find out which New York Pass is best for you.

And on this page you’ll find our New York Pass comparison .

Itineraries in New York

You don’t know where to start? Then let us inspire you! We have some suggestions for you. By the way, the most popular is the 1 week New York itinerary .

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!

What to Do in New York?

For me, an unforgettable New York trip includes the following things in addition to visiting the main sights:

Go Shopping

New York is also really good for shopping. There are many small shopping spots and addresses, but also the big brands can often be found with flagship stores. If that’s not enough, you can go shopping in one of the outlets and flea markets of New York.

The best shopping areas in New York are Broadway, SoHo , Chelsea, the Meatpacking District, and Williamsburg in Brooklyn. And, of course, 5th Avenue!

Avoid Times Square for shopping!

A real tourist trap are the stores around Times Square – they are not only overpriced, but also the quality is not right in most cases!

Here you can find our Guide to Shopping in New York with everything you need to know!

Shopping in New York: The Ultimate Guide 2024

The Best Outlets in NYC – The Ultimate Guide for 2024

The 15 Best Flea Markets in NYC – Shop Vintage and Rare to Find Items

Shopping in SoHo NYC: The 25 Best Stores Right Now

Visit a rooftop bar.

I love the rooftop bars of New York . You can sit and relax, enjoy a sensational view of the city and listen to relaxing music. All this mixes with the so-typical sounds of the city in the background, and if you have something delicious to drink or eat on top of that, it can’t get any better! You can see where we like to go in our article on the 43 best rooftop bars in New York .

By the way, if you want to experience the view of New York when you get up early in the morning, check out my list of the 26 best New York hotels with a view !

Visit a Broadway Show

New York is known for its many musicals and Broadway shows – most of which are performed in the Theatre District around Times Square. Here are our tips on the best Broadway Shows in New York . If you already know which Broadway show you want to see, I recommend ordering the tickets in advance ( here ). If you’re still flexible, you can buy leftover tickets at TKTS in Times Square, for example.

Attend a Parade or Special Event

OK, hotel is booked, attractions are on the list, the myNY itinerary is ready, shopping spots are sighted and the first restaurants and bars are also noted. Now comes the last step on the list to the perfect travel planning for New York: the events, parades, and holidays.

They are the icing on the cake of every New York vacation and, therefore, could not be missed in our New York Travel Guide! Just check out our monthly specials that are relevant to you: January , February , March , April , May , June , July , August , September , October , November and December .

Enjoying the Gastro Scene (in the Evening)

Now comes one of my favorite parts of planning our New York trips: the city’s many bars, restaurants, rooftop bars, and food markets. In our travel guide and insider guides on the website, we put a lot of emphasis on finding the best gastro spots and rooftop bars. So, feel free to browse through them, and if you like something, just add it to your myNY itinerary. Just click on the heart symbol, and you’re done!

The 24 Most Beautiful Bars in NYC Right Now

The 12 Best Food Markets in NYC

The 23 Best Waterfront Restaurants & Bars in New York Right Now

The Best Burger in New York City

Marvel at grand central station.

Be sure to take the time to see Grand Central Station . Not only is it the setting for many series and movies set in New York, it’s also very impressive and has a fantastic ceiling!

The 50 Absolute Best Things to Do in New York (90+ pages)

Walking through DUMBO and Soho

The neighborhoods of DUMBO in Brooklyn and Soho in Manhattan are among the most iconic neighborhoods in the city and are fascinating for their combination of old New York with new New York.

Things to Do in DUMBO

The 15 Best Things to Do in SoHo NYC – The Complete Guide 2024

What to eat in new york.

What should I start with first? With the New York pizza slice, the New York cheesecake, the wonderful pastrami sandwiches at Katz’ Delicatessen, or at the Pastrami Queen? In addition, Wolfgang’s Steakhouse and Luger are two really good steak restaurants waiting for you and if you want to eat really good burgers: go to J.G. Melon, the hidden Burger Joint or Shake Shack!

Get personal tips & tricks, specifically tailored to your trip!

We will provide you with individual tips & tricks as you prepare for your trip. How to plan, save money and make sure you experience the most of NYC are only some of the topics covered!

Specify dates

I hope my New York Travel Guide helped you plan your first trip to New York. Was there anything missing? Feel free to write it in the comments!

I wish you a wonderful time in New York City!

New York on a Budget: The 19 Best Money-Saving Tips for 2024

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 !

Get exclusive content, real insider tips, and the best deals in NYC for FREE!

Start of your trip: We will remind you with current events when you are in NYC!

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: Top things to do in NYC for a day

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

Statue of Liberty in front of the New York City skyline

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 in 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.

9/11 Memorial pool in New York City showing names engraved in bronze with buildings and trees in the background.

Statue of Liberty

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

Your one-day 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 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.

PRO 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.

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 that 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.

New York City skyline with the Empire State Building.

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.

tall building in New York City with a sculpture in front

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 there 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 for your one day in New York City itinerary

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.

View of Washington Square arch from below.

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 for some more exploring.
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 in New York City

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 New York City

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.

Final thoughts on one day in New York

There are so many amazing things to do in NYC in a day of course that you can’t possibly see as much as you would like, BUT you can see the best of the best if you have 24 hours in the Big Apple.

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.

What do you think everyone should put on their 1-day NYC itinerary?

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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.

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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

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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
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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 an interactive table.

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 other 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.

Recent travelers were impressed by the extensive art collection and loved being able to see the museum's famous paintings. The $30 entry fee for adults ($17 for students; $22 for seniors; free for kids 16 and younger) can be hard to stomach for some, but reviewers insist you won't regret the money spent. A few travelers express disappointment with the crowds (which are most common on rainy days), but suggest getting some fresh air at the museum's Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Sculpture Garden.

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 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.

Thanks to the garden's extensive collection, which includes 13 gardens and five conservatories, there's plenty of scenery to soak up here. Plus, you can take advantage of year-round exhibits and events, such as children's gardening workshops and Lightscape, the annual wintertime lights display. After you've taken respite in Brooklyn's cherished green space, recent visitors suggest moseying over to two staples located down the street: Prospect Park and the Brooklyn Museum.

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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.

Most recent visitors praised Little Island for its peaceful atmosphere, splash of greenery and views of the Hudson River and beyond. Some recent visitors recommend planning a visit on a weekday rather than a weekend, when this attraction can be crowded with people picnicking, especially during the golden sunset hours. Regardless of what time of day visitors stop by, almost everyone is left with a positive impression of the park and note its sculptures, family-friendly vibe, impressive variety of plants and free concerts.

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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.

Travelers love the historical church's beauty and stained-glass windows, but say you don't have to carve out too much time to see it. Previous vacationers also suggest visiting at Christmastime to really see the church in all its glory.

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). Restaurants serving classic Italian dishes on red-and-white checkered tablecloths can still be found in the neighborhood. Among the neighborhood staples is Lombardi’s, a restaurant that has been tossing pizzas since 1905 and claims to be the first pizzeria in the United States. Ferrara Bakery & Cafe, another famous Little Italy eatery best known for its cannolis and espresso, has been around since 1892.

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.

Times Square's biggest tourist draw is the annual New Year's Eve ball drop. Revelers crowd the area to see New York's famous Waterford crystal ball descend 77 feet from a pole on the One Times Square building. If you're feeling brave, take a trip to New York and Times Square at this time of year and watch the ball drop for free! Just plan on coming in the early morning and staying all day, and note that the area is super crowded, even by New York standards.

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. If you're not able to attend a performance, consider signing up for the hourlong Radio City Stage Door Tour. The guided tour includes stops at areas of the historic venue not typically seen by the public, such as Radio City’s secret apartment, The Roxy Suite. You'll also an enjoy an in-depth history lesson about the stage and its iconic art deco design. The tour concludes with a meet-and-greet with a Radio City Rockette. Tours are offered daily starting at 9:30 a.m.; tickets cost $42 per adult and $38 per kid 12 and younger.

The Battery The Battery free

Also known as The Battery, this 25-ace park 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 witnessed 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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Travel Itineraries | Luxury Travel | Travel Tips

7 Days in New York City | Travel Itinerary + Guide

“New York, New York (So Good They Named It Twice)” – Gerard Kenny, singer/songwriter

As a native New Yorker myself, I couldn’t agree more. New York City is a bustling city that never sleeps. Its streets are always alive with a vibrant energy that’s hard to describe until you’ve experienced it firsthand. And yes, NYC is active for 24 hours a day. Trying to cover all the attractions of New York City in just one week might seem daunting, but with the correct itinerary and plan, you can have an unforgettable experience. You can experience the best that NYC has to offer in this 7 day New York City travel itinerary. You’ll be able to explore all the tourist attractions plus get to enjoy things that native New Yorkers also love doing.

You can have many different types of things to do while in New York City, including such indulges as world-class cuisine or shopping in stores that can only be found in places such as Milan and Paris. Take a walk along South Street Seaport and see a glimpse of old New York, or take a ferry to Ellis Island and explore the Statue of Liberty. Come across cartoon characters that take pictures with you in Times Square and eat in hipster Brooklyn lined with restaurants that create new dishes all the time. New York promises the experience of a lifetime.

Keep reading this New York Trip Planner, as we take you through the best attractions, sights, and glimpses of New York that most visitors don’t get to see. New York City is a fantastic city with so much to offer, and we don’t want you to miss any of it. You’ll be in an Empire State of Mind in no time! (See what I did there.)

Day 1 – Arrival in New York City | Head right to the City Centre

Day 2 – visiting immigration history at ellis island, day 3 – central park, american museum of natural history and the met, day 4 – empire state building and the highline, day 5 – visit the next best borough – brooklyn, day 6 – 9/11 museum and downtown manhattan, day 7 – last day in nyc, top sights of new york city, where to stay in new york city, top new york city tours and activities, share this:, new york city trip guide – 7 days itinerary.

1 week in NYC | New York City Travel Itinerary | NYC Travel Guide

Pin this New York Trip Planner featuring a 7 Day New York City Tour Itinerary and Guide for your future Trip to NYC

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Morning: You’ll arrive at either JFK or LGA airport. Make your way from the airport via the AirTrain to the subway at Jamaica, Queens, and experience the NYC Subway right from the start of your trip. You can get a 7-Day Metro card for unlimited rides at the station, which I highly suggest doing. The subway runs 24 hours a day (most trains). Check into your hotel in New York City , which should be located in Manhattan, to get the most out of your trip.

Afternoon: Head over to Times Square, the intersection between 7th Avenue, Broadway, and 42nd Street. From here, you can go to the M&M’s World New York Store and explore the 3 floors of chocolate goodness and pick up NYC-only M&M gifts. From right outside the store, you can walk and get your picture taken with some of your favourite cartoon characters. You’ll have to pay to get a photo, though.

Times Square | New York City | Photo by Victor He on Unsplash

Evening: Get dinner while in Times Square City Kitchen. Nestled in the Row Hotel, City Kitchen is a foodie lover’s paradise. A food hall with so many diverse food options. If you’re into comedy clubs, catch a show in Times Square. There are shows every night, and ticket prices vary from cheap to very expensive.

Pro Tip – To maximise on savings, grab the 5 Day All Inclusive New York City pass by GoCity , and visit as many New York City attractions as you want to.

Morning: Today, get *THE* iconic New Yorker breakfast. Bacon-egg-cheese with salt, pepper and ketchup on a roll. Yes, it’s ordered as one word, mainly because it’s said so fast. Ask where your closest deli or bodega is (your hotel will know) and get this delicious breakfast. Everyone from office workers to ambulance personnel will order this almost every morning. I promise you will see what you’re missing in life when you order this. Take the subway to Bowling Green. Here, head to Clinton Castle to purchase your ferry tickets to see the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

Afternoon: Explore the island that the Statue of Liberty is on and get a chance to walk up inside of Liberty to the Crown. Tip: Make sure to get your tickets BEFORE you arrive in NYC. From here, you can take the ferry to Ellis Island and research immigration in America by visiting the museum. You can also look up your family members who came here through Ellis Island. It’s a great way to spend the afternoon looking into the history of not only New York but of your family as well. You can also book the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Half Day Tour here .

Statue of Liberty | Ellis Island, New York City | Photo by Pierre Blaché on Unsplash

Evening: Take the ferry back to Manhattan from Ellis Island and walk around Battery Park. You can take in gorgeous views of the Hudson River, find tucked-away monuments, and find plenty of food trucks and eateries to fill up on. From here, you can also explore the Skyscraper Museum or ride on the Aquatic Carousel.

Morning: On Day 3 in this New York Trip Planner, we recommend that you head out to visit Central Park. You could relax at Central Park, walking around the Upper West Side neighbourhood. There are many trails with lots to explore. You’ll see New Yorkers sunbathing on the grass in summer or bicyclists riding on the bike paths all over. Central Park also has a zoo you can visit. For fans of The Beatles, you can see Strawberry Fields while here.

Afternoon: Visit some of the most famous museums that line the border of Central Park – the American Museum of Natural History and the MET, which also happen to be some of the top things to do in New York according to this NYC Weekend Travel Guide . Visit the American Museum of Natural History to see the iconic dioramas and fossils. Every kid loves to explore this museum. Then, head to The Metropolitan Museum of Art also known as the MET, one of the most extensive and comprehensive art museums in the world. Take advantage of the rooftop sculpture garden with views of Central Park.

american museum of history nyc itinerary

⬆️ American Museum of Natural History (Left) | Metropolitan Museum of Art (Right)

⬇️ Central Park | New York City

Evening: Look to see if a concert is playing or if actors are performing in the evening at Central Park. Grab dinner at one of the many restaurants on Amsterdam Ave, about a block west of Central Park, between 77th St and 86th Street.

Morning: Take a trip to the world-famous Empire State Building. Once the tallest building in the world until 1971, this is where you can take in breathtaking views of the City from the observation deck on the 86th floor. From there, head to the High Line, a scenic park built on an elevated rail line with views of the Hudson River and the city skyline.

Empire State Building | New York City | Photo by Michael Discenza on Unsplash

Afternoon: From the Highline, you can visit Chelsea Market and see a bunch of food vendors and small boutique shops from local artists. After lunch, you can visit the Hudson Yards and walk to the top of The Vessel. It is a tall beehive-shaped structure that you can walk around and get great views of the Hudson and the City.

Evening: End your day with dinner at one of the City’s Michelin-starred restaurants, like Per Se or Le Bernardin. After dinner, head back to the Highline and grab a drink at the Rooftop Bar Gallow Green.

Morning: Today, take the subway to the base of the Brooklyn Bridge in Manhattan and walk the bridge to Dumbo, Brooklyn. You’ll see the historic part of Brooklyn mixed with cute boutique stores and great eateries/restaurants for you to get world-class dining. Brooklyn is a state of mind, and you’ll see more locals here than in Manhattan. Head to The Brooklyn Flea Market. It’s one of the most popular in NYC, and you can find a great selection of records and vintage clothing. If that’s not your style, then go to Brooklyn Bridge Park. Here, especially during the summer, you can sit out on the lawn, let kids run around, and get the best photos of the Brooklyn Bridge. Dumbo is a great community to walk around and explore for a few hours too.

Brooklyn Bridge | Dumbo, NYC | Photo by Miltiadis Fragkidis on Unsplash

Afternoon: From Dumbo, head over to Williamsburg, Brooklyn. It’s another old-school neighbourhood turned hipster and artsy but offers lots to do. Smorgasburg is open on weekends and has many vendors from all over NYC selling food at decent prices. New Yorkers from all over come every Saturday and Sunday and grab food. They then chill out near the water to eat and relax or hang with their friends. After eating, spend the day strolling through Domino Park through the many paths. The park designers left a nod to the old Domino Sugar factory that used to be here, by scattering old factory equipment in the park.

Evening: Head over to Brooklyn Bowl. In typical Brooklyn fashion, it’s an ordinary bowling alley mixed with a music venue and bar. It was called “one of the most incredible places on earth” by Rolling Stone Magazine. Grab dinner at any of the fantastic restaurants over here, and they have every type of cuisine, from Vegan to BBQ and everything else in between.

Morning: Head to the 9/11 museum today. The museum is held on the site where the towers once stood. It’s a very moving experience and helps you to understand what happened and how New York has coped with the aftermath. You’ll then see the memorial of where the Towers stood and the names posted around the edge of those who gave the ultimate sacrifice that day. You can even opt for the 9/11 Memorial and Museum Guided Tour , to get a much better immersive experience.

9/11 Memorial, NYC | Photo by Manuel Velasquez on Unsplash

Afternoon: Head over to Little Italy and Chinatown. Separated by Canal Street, both of these neighbourhoods are worth the trip to explore, but Chinatown offers better food options. The best way to explore the area is by taking the Little Italy and Chinatown Food Tour . There are many spots for great photos and shopping for gifts to take home.

Chinatown – New York City | Photo by Travis Grossen on Unsplash

Evening: Enjoy hanging out in Columbus Park for a few minutes before grabbing dinner. Columbus Park is like most other parks in NYC, but this park gives you a window into Chinatown. Make sure you stop for dessert at the Chinatown Ice Cream Factory. They offer flavors here you can’t get anywhere else, and it’s worth the visit.

Morning: In this New York Trip Planner, we recommend that you, make the most of your last day in New York and head to SoHo district. From here, you can walk around and see the original cobblestone streets of Manhattan and do some last-minute shopping at the 100s of stores in the area. Grab a coffee and sit at many outdoor cafes in the more excellent weather months and enjoy the sights and sounds of the City one last time.

SoHo, Manhattan, NYC | Photo by Diane Picchiottino on Unsplash

Afternoon: Stroll through Washington Square Park and watch street performers playing or grab a bite to eat from the food truck vendors that hang out on the Street. This is a great way to relax before you leave NYC. Then, return to the hotel to check out and catch your flight home.

Take in a Broadway Show – You can catch a show that’s playing, but make sure you get your tickets ahead of time.

Grand Central Terminal – This is where the trains come into Midtown Manhattan, and it is very historic with beautiful architecture.

Top of the Rock – Get a bird’s eye view of the City from on top of the Empire State Building.

Rockefeller Plaza – This is where the famous holiday tree stands, ice skating, and the favourite NBC studios are here.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral – The most famous catholic church in New York City.

New York Public Library – Open to visitors to explore and experience the history of this library.

Museum of Modern Art MOMA – Another fantastic art museum has works such as Van Gogh’s Starry Night.

One World Observatory – Top of the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere with more amazing views of New York City.

Here are some of our recommended hotels in New York City that you can choose from –

Or you can simply enter your dates, and hit the search button in the box below, to search and compare prices for the Best Hotels in New York City, based on your needs.

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Don’t forget to Pin this NYC Travel Guide and New York Trip Planner featuring an exhaustive 7 Day New York City Travel Itinerary , carefully crafted and curated by a local, which will help you in planning for your trip to New York City.

7 Day Ultimate New York City Travel Itinerary | 7 Days in NYC | One Week in New York City

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Your Trip to NYC: The Complete Guide

New York City Guide: Planning Your Trip

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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.

Watch Now: Planning Your Visit to New York City

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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4 Days In New York Itinerary: How To Plan The Perfect NYC Trip

by Mark and Kristen Morgan

Published: May 20, 2021

The Perfect 4 days in New York City itinerary Central Park Midtown Manhattan Lower Manhattan Brooklyn Yellow Taxi Grand Central NYC

Planning the perfect first time trip to NYC begins with one very important question: Should you map out a New York City itinerary for 3, 4 or 5 days? Well, we’re here to show you why 4 days is the magic number. We have condensed the very best things to do in New York City into an action packed, fun filled and unforgettable 4 day NYC itinerary.

After heavily exploring New York City for 3 non-stop months in early 2021, we have crafted the perfect 4 days itinerary blueprint for first time visitors to one of the world’s greatest cities.

If you follow this itinerary exactly, you will see all of the top rated paid attractions, walk around the cool and edgy neighborhoods and of course hit the best free things to do in NYC.

Remember, you can always use this example itinerary as a starting point and tailor it to suit your travel style and preferences.

Let’s break the iconic landmarks and neighborhoods of New York City up into 4 memorable days!

Why 4 Days?

We thought long and hard about 3, 4 and 5 days for the perfect amount of time for a first time visitor to explore NYC.

New York City is one of the best places to visit in the USA but it is not a cheap place to take a vacation. Hotels, food, attractions and transport add up quickly.

However, there are so many awesome things to do in the city, so it’s important to get the balance right.

With just 3 days, you will be seriously cramming things in and you will have to cut one or two ‘big’ attractions or neighborhoods from your itinerary.
If you stay in the city for 5 days, you might find you have unexpected ‘dead’ time. Plus it starts to get really expensive.
Therefore, 4 days strikes the perfect balance between cost, time and making the most of your trip to NYC.

Getting Into NYC

Let’s take a quick look into basic travel logistics and useful tips for getting into the city. All transport terminals can be found on the map located at the end of the NYC itinerary:

Remember if you drive to the city, you will have to pay additional fees for hotel parking. There are tolls to pay as you cross bridges and tunnels, plus traffic is going to cost you time.

We highly recommend leaving your car in the hotel parking lot and using subways to get around once in the city.

The major Amtrak station in New York City is newly built Moynihan Hall, opposite Penn Station (which serves as one combined entity).

Greyhound bus terminal in NYC is at Port Authority, 8th ave and 40th-42nd street. Times Square and Penn Station are within walking distance.

International visitors will land at JFK or Newark, but domestic US travelers could also land at La Guardia. Here’s how to get into the city from each airport:

JFK to Manhattan – Take the air train to Jamaica Station and then the LIRR to Penn Station. The LIRR is much easier than taking the subway, especially if you have larger suitcases.
Newark to Manhattan – The Newark Airport ‘AirTrain’ will transport you from airport terminal to airport train station. Take the NJ Transit train or Amtrak train directly from Newark Airport station to Penn Station. Easier and quicker than JFK.
La Guardia to Manhattan – No direct train links. Take a bus to a subway line or take a taxi, private bus, or private car into Manhattan.

Where to stay on a 4 days in new york city itinerary 1 hotel central park top choice

Where To Stay In NYC

The hotel you decide to book will play an important role in the success and enjoyment of your visit to the city.

Our top tip is to book a hotel near a subway station. If you can help it, you don’t want a 5 or 10 minute walk each time you want to go anywhere in the city and the same back again later that night.

We won’t get into hotels in a big way in this 4 days New York City itinerary. Instead we will list just a handful of the top rated hotels in the most popular centrally located areas for first time visitors.

Read our comprehensive Where to Stay in New York City guide to find the perfect hotel for your travel style and preferences. It is a very detailed roundup of the top rated hotels in each of the 6 most popular NYC areas.

Important : A high proportion of first time visitors to New York will book a hotel near Times Square. Therefore, for the purposes of this 4 days in New York City itinerary, we will use Times Square as our home base.

Each hotel listed below has a rating out of 10 as per Booking.com included for reference. We have included the popular areas of Central Park, Times Square and Midtown South.

Click on any hotel name to see the prices for your dates:

Central Park – M Social Hotel 8.5
Times Square – Riu Plaza 8.6
Midtown South – Cambria 8.8
Central Park – 1 Hotel Central Park 8.7
Times Square – CitizenM Times Square 9.1
Midtown South – Archer 9.0
Central Park – The Whitby Hotel 9.5
Times Square – The Chatwal 9.1
Midtown South – The Langham 9.1

NYC Itinerary Tips

Spend as much time as possible exploring each day and night. You can sleep after your trip!
Depending on season, you might have one or two days of bad weather forecast. If there’s going to be a rainy day, switch up the itinerary to make sure you spend as much time inside as possible.
Fuel up during the day with the best bagels in NYC , endless slices of the best NYC pizza and hotdogs from street vendors – you are in New York City after all!
Visiting New York City at Christmas? Read our detailed guide to visiting NYC in Winter .
Book every single attraction you want to do in advance, whether it’s a museum, observation deck, cruise and even lunch or dinner if it’s somewhere popular. With just 4 days you can’t afford to lose time standing in lines or being on a waiting list.
Purchase a NYC attraction pass to save money when visiting many of the top attractions in the city. We will cover everything you need to know towards the end of this guide after the itinerary.

Infographic summarizing the best things to do on a 4 days NYC itinerary

Day 1 New York City Itinerary – Central Park, North Midtown & Times Square

Let’s kick things off on Day 1 with an iconic park, world famous art museums, shopping and the first of many observation decks.

Remember, the summer months of June, July and August are peak season in NYC. If you want to avoid the crowds but still have comfortable weather, consider visiting New York in April or another shoulder season month.

Central Park and North Midtown are overflowing with must-visit sights. It will be a busy first day with a lot of walking.

Central Park Bow Bridge in snow and ice winter plan a trip to nyc

Morning – Central Park

There are two awesome NYC bagel joints near Penn Station on 35th street between 7th and 8th avenue: Liberty Bagels Midtown and Best Bagel & Coffee . Either will set up you perfectly for the day ahead.

After breakfast, walk up 7th avenue from Times Square to Central Park or take the Yellow subway line from Times Sq 42 St to 5 Avenue on the Southeast corner of Central Park.

One of our top tips for your 4 days in New York City itinerary is to walk through Times Square before (or during) sunrise. It’s almost as crazy to see it empty as it to see it buzzing at night.

Central Park is a stunning part of the city you just can’t miss on a first visit to NYC. Walking through the park is up there with the very best free things to do in New York.

It’s also a 4 season urban oasis:

Spring – Cherry blossom
Summer – Emerald green leaves
Fall – Burnt orange foliage
Winter – See Central Park in the snow

Once in Central Park, follow this exact path:

The Pond -> Gapstow Bridge -> Wollman Ice Rink -> The Mall -> Bethesda Terrace -> Bow Bridge (but don’t cross it) -> Cherry Hill -> Wagner Cove -> Strawberry Fields -> Ramble Stone Arch -> The Ramble -> Belvedere Castle and finish at The MET .

The MET (Metropolitan Museum of Art) is our top pick for the best NYC museums . If you are only going to do one, make it this one. We spent 5 hours inside and left feeling like we’d missed a few important exhibits.

It is huge!

Afternoon – North Midtown

Once you manage to tear yourself away from The MET, either walk back through Central Park sticking close to the boundary with 5th avenue or walk on 5th avenue itself.

The park is more attractive but the luxury buildings of Upper East Side are impressive and intriguing.

When you reach the corner of 59th street and 5th avenue – where the Plaza Hotel from Home Alone 2 is located – you will begin walking down the world’s most expensive shopping street: Upper Fifth Avenue.

If shopping isn’t your cup of tea, why not go for a ‘proper brew’ with afternoon tea at The Whitby Hotel ?

Sandwiches, scones and desserts at one of the top rated hotels in NYC is a luxurious and relaxing way to refuel after standing for hours.

Alternatively, if you love art and can’t wait to travel forward in time from The MET, spend the next few hours perusing New York’s premier Modern Art display inside MoMA .

However you decide to spend the afternoon in North Midtown, be sure to walk by St Patrick’s Cathedral, Atlas, Saks Fifth Avenue and Rockefeller Center.

Top of the Rock is one of the best things to do on a 4 days in new york city itinerary

Evening – Times Square

After looking up at the impressive Rockefeller Center, there’s only one thing to do – stand on its roof. Walk the red carpet entrance on W 50th street, check out the exhibits and take the elevator up to Top of the Rock .

Pre-book your time slot for Top of the Rock and go for the hour before sunset. That way you can watch as Midtown and Downtown turn a golden yellow and orange as the city buildings cast huge deep shadows from block to block.

From Top of the Rock you have awesome views over Central Park, Edge and particularly the Empire State Building, which lights up at night.

Once you’ve seen enough and day has transitioned into night, it’s time to immerse yourself into the eccentric chaos that is Times Square. Even if you know you’re not going to like Times Square, you should at least walk through it one time to experience the electric atmosphere.

Look for the red staircase and take a seat to soak up the sensory overload scenes unfolding in front of you.

The time will come when you can’t take it anymore. At that point, make your way to Refinery Rooftop for a late dinner and cocktail or beer.

Views of the Empire State Building are great but you will need to book in advance.

Day 1 NYC Attractions Summary

If you want to keep track of any attractions you will visit on this 4 days in New York City itinerary, we will list major and minor attractions at the end of each day.

Central Park
Fifth Avenue
Top of the Rock
Times Square
St Patrick’s Cathedral
Saks Department Store
Rockefeller Center
NYC Rooftop Bar

Do you need help planning your visit to New York City? Our popular 40 + page NYC Guidebook & Itinerary covers every aspect of planning a trip to New York including hotels, restaurants, getting around, things to do, example itineraries and so much more!

Day 2 New York City Itinerary – South Midtown, Chelsea & Central Midtown

Day 2 gets you stuck into the meat of Manhattan, New York. The route is a nice, easy to follow square shaped loop and is best achieved by walking.

There are fewer ‘top attractions’ but more chance to walk through some of the residential areas in Manhattan.

Empire State Building in the new york city skyline is unmissable on any NYC itinerary

Morning – South Midtown

Start the day with a visit to the 86th floor of New York’s most iconic building of all – the Empire State Building. There are 50 tickets per day for sunrise but they are expensive.

So if you’re on a lower budget, we’d suggest waiting until right after the sunrise time slot.

Views circling 360 degrees consist of enormous skyscrapers and concrete towers bursting high above the streets of NYC. The exhibits are interesting and you can also pay more to visit the 102nd floor but be aware that floor is indoors.

Take Broadway as far as the Flatiron Building to gaze upon the famous narrowly rounded front edge.

Continue down Broadway passing through Union Square until you reach the incredibly popular and independent Strand Book Store .

By now there are likely to be lines to get in but it’s worth waiting around a few minutes to get inside.

The High Line street view of an ornate bridge

Afternoon – Chelsea

Next up is a 6 block walk along W 14th street as far as Chelsea Market.

Spend a few hours exploring Chelsea Market, find a great spot (such as Los Tacos ) for a quick take out lunch and enjoy the atmosphere.

Walk around Chelsea and the Meatpacking District for another hour or so, there are dozens of trendy bars and restaurants here to grab lunch if nothing takes your fancy inside Chelsea Market.

You will find The High Line starts just a few blocks South of the market and that’s where you’ll be heading next, right on the corner of Gansevoort and Washington.

The High Line is a peaceful and relaxing escape from crosswalks and relentless traffic. An old railroad line transformed into a 1.5 mile long garden oasis elevated above street level is as awesome as it sounds.

This place does get busy in Summer and on warm Spring or Fall days. But by late afternoon it should be beginning to get quieter after the midday rush.

Sunset on the edge at Hudson yards perfect place to visit on a 4 days in new york city itinerary

Evening – Central Midtown

As you walk North, you will see an eye-catching glass building with strange triangular shaped platform jutting out at the top. That is Edge at Hudson Yards and you will be standing on that very platform shortly.

Undergoing significant redevelopment, Hudson Yards has become a modern and futuristic looking area to enjoy. The High Line ends right at the Hudson Yards complex.

Start with Vessel, one of the most unique and awesome pieces of architecture in the city. Next to it is The Shed, a cultural center with retractable shell.

Move inside the main shopping mall at Hudson Yards. It reminded us of a mall in Dubai or Singapore with its pristine finish and upmarket feel. On the 4th floor you will find the entrance to Edge.

Spend time walking around the cool exhibits, explaining how renewable energy, waste and air filtration works in conjunction with the building.

The elevator ride from floor 4 to 100 is our favorite elevator in New York City. You will know why when you’re floating upward.

Views over NYC from Edge at sunset are astounding. We highly recommend this one.

When you’re ready, head up 34th street, passing Penn Station as far as Macy’s. You simply can’t miss one of the world’s most popular department stores on your first trip to NYC.

If you bought a New York CityPASS , you will have a ‘free’ second visit to the Empire State Building after 7pm. So if you’re not observation-decked-out, head back up to floor 82 to see New York shimmering at night.

Day 2 NYC Attractions Summary

Here are the top NYC attractions you have ticked off on day 2:

Empire State Building
Chelsea Market
The High Line
Strand Book Store
Flatiron Building
Meatpacking District
Penn Station

Day 3 New York City Itinerary – Lower Manhattan & SoHo

Days 1 and 2 have been action packed but day 3 takes things up a notch. Lots of coffee in the morning is a must!

Lower Manhattan is home to an overwhelming amount of touristy things to do in New York. However, with just one day to see it all, we’re going to prioritize only the most unmissable.

Statue of liberty is unmissable on a 4 days in new york city itinerary for first time visitors lady liberty holding torch high into the blue sky

Morning – Lower Manhattan Part 1

Take the red subway line from Times Square 42 St to the South Ferry terminal in time to jump on the very first ferry of the day to Liberty Island.

Again, you will need to book this in advance and we highly recommend you do make the first ferry. That way you get a good start on a long day and you also get Liberty Island to just the one group.

The ferry leaves from behind Castle Clinton in The Battery on Manhattan’s Southern tip.

Visiting the Statue of Liberty is one of the top bucket list activities on your 4 days in New York, and this is the only way you can actually step foot on Liberty Island.

The ferry leaves Liberty Island and makes a stop at Ellis Island before heading back to Manhattan. We thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend getting off at Ellis Island to take the tour inside the National Museum of Immigration.

However, only do this if you either have a lot of interest in this museum or you are a quick explorer because there’s a lot more to get through today.

Once back in Manhattan, it’s time to explore the maze-like street of the Financial District. Start with Stone Street, Broad Street and William Street before reaching Wall Street.

Check out the Trump Building, Federal Hall, Trinity Church and NYSE with the Fearless Girl statue. Consider taking this popular walking tour of Wall Street and the Financial District.

Oculus is one of the most unique buildings in new york city and perfect to add to a 4 days itinerary for lovers of architecture or interior design

Afternoon – Lower Manhattan Part 2

Around 12pm – 1pm is the perfect time of day if you’re planning to take a luxury helicopter tour over NYC for a special occasion. We’d recommend waiting on lunch until after the flight!

If a helicopter ride isn’t on your radar, head straight up to Oculus at the World Trade Center complex. Oculus is one of our favorite buildings in New York.

It looks like a bright white winged dove from the outside and opens up into a vast and cavernous grand hall.

If you want to complete the set of observation decks, One World Observatory is the highest platform in the Western Hemisphere. It offers a unique city view, including Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge.

Otherwise, it’s time for a harrowing but unmissable part of your 4 days in New York itinerary – the 9/11 museum. Spend a few minutes walking around the memorial pools before heading inside.

Allow at least 2-3 hours the museum. It’s so sad but engaging and gripping. A timeline of events unfolding almost feels like a tense movie script, but it was a tragic reality.

The museum does a fantastic job of immersing you into the events.

SoHo is a great place to walk around with lovely shops and cobblestone streets

Evening – SoHo

Emotions will be running high but you’ll need to shake it off as you walk North up W Broadway through Tribeca and into SoHo.

SoHo is a ritzy residential / high end shopping area in which you can enjoy some of the best people watching in the city. Walk up and down the quaint grid-style cobblestoned streets, stopping to admire the rows of houses and shops.

If you fancy a sweet treat, don’t miss Dominique Ansel bakery and its legendary Cronut – a croissant / donut hybrid.

Still feeling like walking and exploring at this point? Continue on to Greenwich Village and West Village for more of the same picturesque residential rows.

If not, stick around in SoHo, find a posh place for dinner and relax.

Day 3 NYC Attractions Summary

Here are the top NYC attractions you have ticked off on day 3:

Statue of Liberty
Wall Street
One World Observatory
9/11 Memorial & Museum
Ellis Island
Trinity Church
Helicopter Ride

Day 4 New York City Itinerary – Brooklyn & Williamsburg

The last day of your 4 days in New York City itinerary is centered around crossing the East River into Brooklyn and back again into Manhattan. Maybe more than once!

One day is doing Brooklyn a disservice. But on a first visit to NYC, there are just so many places in Manhattan you can’t miss.

Let’s take a look at an efficient way to see some of the best bits in Brooklyn in one day.

Dumbo washington street manhattan bridge view is unique and gorgeous

Morning – Dumbo

If you don’t mind an early start, we highly recommend waking up before sunrise and making your way down to Brooklyn Bridge / City Hall on the green subway line.

Walking over the iconic Brooklyn Bridge at sunrise is one of the best free things you can do in New York. You will have the bridge almost entirely to yourself, perfect for snapping some selfies.

Serious photographers should try to be at Pier 17 during civil twilight. The sun rises behind Williamsburg and Pier 17 has one of the top places to watch sunrise in NYC.

Cross the bridge and once you reach Brooklyn, take the staircase and turn left. Walk 3 blocks straight down Washington Street and you’ll see the mighty Manhattan Bridge dominating the skyline through a tunnel of narrow buildings.

Early morning gives you a better chance of getting a selfie without dozens of others, plus the bridge will be glowing just after sunrise.

This unique spot in Dumbo is one of the best photography and instagram locations in NYC .

Bars and restaurants in Williamsburg Brooklyn

Afternoon – Williamsburg

You have so many options for places to explore in Brooklyn.

Prospect Park, Greenwood Cemetery, Red Hook, walk around downtown Brooklyn, pick any of the residential neighborhoods to see those typical Brooklyn houses with wide set steps at the entrance and the list goes on.

However, for the purpose of keeping things broader and to give you more of a complete visit to NYC, we recommend you jump on the light green line at Hoyt-Schermerhorn and get off at Metropolitan Ave in Williamsburg.

Trendy hipster Williamsburg is a cool residential neighborhood with tons of bars and restaurants spilling out into the streets centered around Bedford Avenue and Berry Street.

Start at Domino Park and walk all the way up Berry St / Bedford Av to really immerse yourself into Williamsburg around midday. Stop in for lunch and a beer at one of many awesome looking places.

If you’re into street art, make the extra effort to reach the Bushwick Collective. You can jump on the grey line at Bedford Av station and get off at Jefferson St to see entire streets covered in wall art.

Top tip : If you’re trying out pizza slices in each area of NYC, you can’t miss highly rated and always busy L’industrie pizzeria in Williamsburg.

Brooklyn Bridge lit up at night with nobody on the wooden pedestrian path

Evening – Brooklyn

Tear yourself away from the pubs in Williamsburg and head back to Hoyt-Schermerhorn St in Brooklyn.

Make your way over to Montague Street and walk as far as Brooklyn Heights promenade for your first of many Lower Manhattan skyline views. Turn right and follow this all the way around until you’re standing underneath Brooklyn Bridge.

Continue along Water Street and enter Time Out Market . On the river side of the market, you will be able to see the classic Brooklyn Bridge view. Take a ton of photographs from Jane’s Carousel, Pebble Beach and on top of Time Out Market.

Sunset is awesome from anywhere in this area. Grab dinner at a riverside restaurant in Time Out Market, then head back to the other side of Brooklyn Bridge again.

Follow the waterfront Pier 1 promenade until you reach Old Pier 1 for another unique but amazing view of Manhattan.

Finally, take one of the most unforgettable walks in New York City by crossing the Brooklyn Bridge at night when Manhattan begins to sparkle.

Day 4 NYC Attractions Summary

Here are the top NYC attractions you have ticked off on day 4:

Williamsburg
Brooklyn Bridge
Manhattan Bridge
Bushwick Collective
Domino Park
Brooklyn Bridge Park

4 Days In New York City Neighborhood Itinerary

Does the itinerary above sound a little too touristy for your taste?

If you’re visiting New York City to see the good, the bad and the gritty, spend your days walking around neighborhoods instead of attractions.

Here’s an example of how you could spend 4 days in New York City:

1 – West Village, Greenwich Village and Chelsea
2 – Tribeca, Chinatown, Little Italy, Nolita and SoHo
3 – Bowery, East Village and Lower East Side
4 – Brooklyn and Williamsburg

4 Days In New York Itinerary Map

We have created a 4 Days NYC Itinerary Map for you to use as a reference. Each day is numbered by attraction or activity as listed in the itinerary above.

Click or touch your screen to activate the map.

Scroll around, zoom in and out, get to know the area and click on each icon to see how the 4 days New York City itinerary will work.

Understanding the geography of NYC will significantly help you get around and save time once you arrive.

Red icons = Day 1
Green icons = Day 2
Purple icons = Day 3
Blue icons = Day 4
Orange icons = Transport Hubs

Four major nyc attraction passes displayed in iPhones

New York City Attraction Passes

If you are planning to visit the top attractions in New York, we recommend you purchase a New York City attraction pass .

The idea is simple with these attractions passes; the more attractions you visit, the more money you will save .

Having used the NYC attraction passes ourselves when we lived in New York, we recommend the New York Sightseeing Pass because its extremely easy to use while offering both flexibility and big savings.

Many of the attractions on this New York Itinerary are included with the NY Sightseeing Pass and we have an exclusive 10% discount just for our readers.

Want To Save Money In NYC?

Use the button below to claim 10% off any NY Sightseeing Pass.

You can also read our guides below to help decide which is the perfect pass for your visit to New York:

NY Sightseeing Pass – The most popular NYC attraction pass option for visitors who want to see as many attractions as possible.
New York CityPASS and C3 Pass Review – How to visit select attractions in New York City at a competitive price point.
New York Pass Comparison – Detailed comparison between each of the 4 New York Passes and which one you should buy for your visit.

Travel Tip : If you have a New York attractions pass, you will not have to pay the extra fee for a sunset time slot at the any of the NYC observation decks when you reserve your timed entry ticket online.

Need Help Planning Your Visit To New York City?

NYC is a vacation planning beast and it can be overwhelming trying to get every aspect right. Trust us, we know!

After living in New York City, we created a comprehensive NYC travel guidebook & itineraries that will answer every question you have about where to stay, what to do, where to eat and how to get around the city.

Click see details below to read more about how we can help you plan your dream trip to New York City!

Our Popular NYC Guides

Attractions – Here’s our complete roundup of the very best things to do in New York City for all visitors covering free, cheap and iconic attractions.
Photography – Our guide to the best photography spots in New York City includes over 60 famous photo locations around the city.
Hotels – Here’s our comprehensive guide on exactly where to stay in New York City based on the six popular NYC neighborhoods.
Winter – Are you planning a trip to New York in December, January or February? There are 10 important things you need to know about visiting New York City in Winter .

Best Of New York City

Pizza – Sampling famous New York pizza is unmissable on any trip to the big apple, here’s our popular guide to where you can find the very best pizza in NYC .
Bagels – Bagels are the only thing you should be eating for breakfast in New York! Here’s our roundup of where to find the best bagels in NYC .
Museums – With over 100 museums in NYC it can be hard to narrow down which ones you should visit, here’s our version of the 10 best museums in New York City .
New York Attraction Pass – With so many popular NYC attraction passes how do you choose? In this guide, we give you a detailed comparison for all New York passes .

Want more New York City content? Head to our New York Travel Guides to explore more from the Big Apple as well as beautiful upstate NY.

We hope this New York City itinerary helps with planning the most amazing 4 days NYC trip!

Please let us know if you have any questions about planning your 4 day itinerary or New York City on the comments below.

Happy Planning ,

Mark and Kristen

Enjoy This NYC Guide? Pin If For Your Visit!

Perfect first time visitor 4 days in new york city itinerary every major attraction

Note : This article contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

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 “4 Days In New York Itinerary: How To Plan The Perfect NYC Trip”

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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Your New York Vacation

Say bye-bye to planning hassles and hello to a New York vacation package. With everything organized before you go, you can focus on discovering the best of this city, starting with Midtown East, which is good for shopping, cafes and nightlife. You'll want to go sightseeing during your trip to New York. Swing by popular attractions like Times Square , Broadway and Statue of Liberty . Whatever your travel plans or the size of your budget, putting together a tailored New York vacation is a breeze with Expedia.

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Where to stay in New York

Wall Street - Financial District showing street scenes, an administrative buidling and a city

Densely populated and culturally rich, this area boasts iconic attractions like Times Square, Central Park, and Grand Central Terminal. Explore diverse neighborhoods, such as bustling Chinatown and vibrant Koreatown, while enjoying world-class shopping on Fifth Avenue.

Midtown featuring a bay or harbor, a sunset and a city

Central portion of NYC, Midtown Manhattan boasts iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building and Times Square. Explore Broadway, Koreatown, and enjoy easy access to major transportation hubs like Grand Central Terminal.

Largest NYC borough, Queens boasts linguistic diversity and a varied economy. Explore Flushing Meadows–Corona Park, catch a game at Citi Field, or attend the U.S. Open at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center.

New York featuring a city, signage and a high rise building

Central New York City

Known for its soaring skyscrapers and eye-catching views, there's plenty to explore in Central New York City. Check out top attractions like Broadway and Times Square, and jump on the metro at 49th St. Station or 50 St. Station (Broadway) to see more of the city.

The High Line Park featuring a city, a garden and street scenes

Primarily residential with a thriving art scene, this area boasts over 200 galleries, the High Line park, and Chelsea Market for food lovers. Easily accessible via multiple subway lines and bus routes.

New York Luxury Vacation Packages

One of the USA’s top cities, New York hardly needs an introduction. With a vibrant arts scene, fabulous shopping, awesome attractions and a buzzing nightlife, every corner of this metropolis pulsates with energy. If you'd love to splurge during your trip to New York, we've got awesome New York Luxury Vacation Packages full of stays that will indulge your every waking (and sleeping) moment.

Take the Sofitel New York , for example. Located in the Manhattan neighborhood, it comes with all the nice touches you'd expect in a ritzy 5-star escape, like premium bedding, designer toiletries and plush robes. To find your dream escape, use Expedia’s filters to search for hotels with upmarket amenities like spas and hot tubs. Of course, luxurious lodgings aren’t the only thing you can splurge on during your trip to New York. Add a Private Luxury Tour of New York City or a Deluxe Helicopter Tour to your vacation package and really live large!

Romantic Vacation Packages in New York

Imagine a vacation in New York with just your sweetheart by your side. No distractions, just the two of you. Whether you’re planning some time alone without the kids or you’re headed away on your honeymoon, our New York Romantic Vacation Packages are full of stays that’ll set your pulses racing. Located on Fifth Avenue in the heart of Manhattan, The Pierre, A Taj Hotel, New York will make you and your partner feel like VIPs. Stare out at sprawling views of Central Park from your luxury suite, dine at its iconic restaurant, The Rotunda, and sip cocktails at the stunning art deco bar.

Lavish rooms with red velvet curtains and marble vanities, acclaimed restaurants and bars and a rooftop terrace with dreamy views make Gramercy Park Hotel hard to resist. This landmark property overlooks Gramercy Park , Manhattan’s only private park. Looking for a little extra spark? Perhaps a bottle of Champagne, or a rose petal turndown service? Many properties have romance or couples add-on packages that are available upon request.

Where to Stay in New York

This bustling city is home to dozens of neighborhoods each with their own unique personality and style. To help you decide where to stay during your vacation in New York, here are some ideas:

Manhattan : Convenient for many of The Big Apple’s biggest attractions, this is the place to be if you’ve only got a few days and want to see as much as possible during your trip to New York.
Queens : Traveling on a budget? Just a short commute from the downtown area, Queens offers lots of affordable accommodation options.
Midtown : If you live for live theater, you’ll find plenty of shows to keep you entertained in this culturally rich area.
Soho : Known for its cool restaurants, bars, clubs and retail stores, Soho is a neighborhood that never slows down.
Chelsea : Bursting with inspiring galleries, this lively urban neighborhood is perfect for art lovers.

Top Things to Do

Visit world-famous attractions and museums, shop, eat and dance the nights away. There are loads of cool things to do during your vacation to New York. Here are some ideas to help you get the most out of this epic city:

Iconic sights : Kick off your New York adventure by visiting landmarks like the Statue of Liberty , Times Square and Madison Square Garden .
Nature : After walking the busy city streets, catch your breath and unwind at Central Park or Brooklyn Bridge Park .
Shopping : Give your credit card a workout on a Fashion on Fifth Avenue Shopping Tour or join one of our SoHo Retail Store Tours .
Cultural : Take a moment to pause and reflect on the past at the National September 11 Memorial and the American Museum of Natural History .
Food : Eat your way through your New York trip on a Chelsea Market and High Line Food Tour or Chinatown and Little Italy Food Fest .
Nightlife : In the mood for a big night out? Enjoy some after-dark fun on an NYC Nightlife Tour with a Local .

How to Find Cheap New York Package Deals

To find the best deals on cheap hotels in New York , simply browse our incredible offers or key in your preferred travel dates. You can sort your results by price, amenities and more. One of our top tips for scoring a great deal is to book your trip to New York during the quieter months of January to March. This is generally when rates are lower and you’ll find more hotel availability.

Luxury or budget, adults-only or family-friendly, Expedia can help you create a New York vacation package that suits you. While prices will vary due to factors such as the time of year you travel and the star rating of your hotel, you can rest assured you’ll always score amazing savings.

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Frequently asked questions, discover the most popular places to visit in new york, times square.

New York’s infamous neon wonderland is hustle and bustle at its best, and an essential stop for all tourists.

Central Park

Offering blissful respite from Manhattan’s concrete jungle, this is the perfect spot to rest weary feet or enjoy a picnic.

Visit the dazzling theater district of one of the world’s most exciting cities. Enjoy the shopping, dining and street entertainment as well.

What to do in New York

Statue of liberty & ellis island tour: all options, summit one vanderbilt experience tickets, the lion king on broadway, other vacations you might like.

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The 85 best New York attractions that should be on your list

Discover the New York attractions locals love including historical landmarks, stunning NYC parks and more.

Our definitive guide to the best New York attractions is a great place to start whether you're entertaining out-of-town guests or simply want to channel your inner tourist. The list is a compilation of our favorite sights and spots in the city, including everything from great parks and art museums , to food markets and historical venues. The Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty are obviously must-see attractions, but we’ve also highlighted a few of our favorite hidden gems, such as one of NYC's greatest flea markets , Hudson Yard's Vessel , and foodie haven Smorgasburg .

Thirsty for more? 🗽Discover the 50 very best things to do in NYC 🏡Take your pick of the coolest Airbnbs in NYC 🛥Stay in the best boat rentals in NYC ⛴Or how about the best boat tours in NYC ?

How do we know it's the best of the best? Our lists are expertly curated by our local experts far and wide to offer you the lowdown on where to go, what to eat and what to see. Btw, t his article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here .

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Top New York attractions

1. One World Observatory

Towers and viewpoints
Financial District

Although the One World Observatory occupies floors 100 to 102 of the tallest building of the Western Hemisphere, this observation deck can be reached in just 60 seconds via a set of visually immersive 'Sky Pod' elevators. During the interactive tour experience, guests walk through some of the bedrock on which the building is built before entering the elevators, which are fitted with floor-to-ceiling LED screens showing a video of the city and building's history. Once at the top, the video concludes as the screen lifts up to reveal stunning 360-degree views of the Manhattan skyline. Folks typically spend a couple of hours here including queuing time.

Time Out tip: After soaking up the sights, head to One Café for casual fare, One Mix for small plates and cocktails or, the gem, One Dine for a full dining experience with large windows looking onto the horizon (reservations required). —Dan Q. Dao

2. Madame Tussauds New York

Sightseeing
Midtown West
price 4 of 4

When Madame Tussaud first started creating wax figures in Europe in the late 18th century, she immortalized figures from the bloody French Revolution, and later, in her first museum space on Baker Street, London she presented persons involved in sensational crimes. Now, over a 150 years after her death, Tussaud’s legacy lives on with museums in several major cities around the world. Yet, few can compare in either size or popularity with the five-story Times Square, New York edition. Folks hoping to take a memento home with them should splurge for the tickets that include your very own wax hand sculpture–you certainly can’t get something like that at every tourist attraction.

3. Legoland New York

You know what we all need more of in our lives? Lego. Because, well, play is fun. And you’ll sure find a lot of Lego at this incredible New York attraction that is dedicated to the stuff. Well, kind of, because really it’s a very family-friendly amusement park that leans nicely on those little plastic bricks and all the pleasing vibes they bring. Plus, the rides are a lot of fun. Take the kids in your life and watch their smiles. Good times.

4. Helicopter Tours

Fancy coasting around the Big Apple in a chopper? Well, now's your chance. There's arguably no better way to see New York City than flying high in the skies, right? Grab your camera – and your safety belt – sit back and relax as your pilot takes you over one of the most iconic skylines in the world. Not sure which one's the right one for you? Take a look at our top picks of the best helicopter tours in NYC to help you decide.

5. See a show on Broadway

Is it possible to visit New York City without catching a show on Broadway? We're not sure it is. It's one of the best ways to experience NYC in all of its live(ly) authenticity and as there are so many wonderful shows to catch, we rate you'll be pretty spoiled for choice. From emotional dramas to belly-laughing comedies, there's a show on broadway for everyone. Get your glad rags on and head on down to the theater district. The lights are calling your name.

6. New York Aquarium

Zoo and aquariums
Coney Island
price 2 of 4

Seen all you can on the streets of NYC and looking for an ocean-oriented activity? It's time to head to the New York Aquarium. Whether it's visiting the penguin habitat or working up your own appetite at feeding time, the oldest aquarium in the US has so much for you to discover. Be sure to check out the sea lion pool, the recreated reef, and the shark exploration tank – only if you dare.

7. Westfield World Trade Center Oculus

Shopping centers

The world’s most expensive train station , the Oculus serves the PATH train and 12 subway lines, and houses a beautiful mall inside of it. Designed by Santiago Calatrava, the exterior resembles the skeleton of a whale, has white metal-clad steel ribs that reach up and out, which symbolize a hand releasing a dove. The structure is a lasting reminder of the attacks of September 11, 2001. It is in alignment with the sun’s solar angles on each September 11, from 8:46 am, when the first plane struck, until 10:28 am, when the second tower collapsed. Its central skylight fits this alignment and washes the Oculus floor with a beam of light. The new shopping center inside has stores like the Apple Store, Aesop, Kate Spade, John Varvatos and others. Dining includes Eataly, Gansevoort Market, Wasabi Sushi & Bento and more.

8. Summit One Vanderbilt

Midtown East

Summit One Vanderbilt sits atop the new 67-floor One Vanderbilt super-tall—a 1,401-foot-high—skyscraper. As the city's fourth-tallest building after One World Trade Center, Central Park Tower and 111 West 57th Street, it is just west of Grand Central Terminal, where you first enter the experience underground. After a trip through a mirrored hallway with its own immersive elements, visitors take an elevator up to the 91st floor, where they're 1,000 feet over the streets and sidewalks of NYC. Kenzo Digital has created a totally mirrored infinity room called "Air" that reflects the sky and city views over and over, making you feel like you're walking in the sky or on another plane of existence. Looking above you and below you in this two-story space, you see your reflection repeating forever. After you ascend to the third level of this experience, guests are introduced to "Levitation," a series of transparent glass sky-boxes that jut out of the building at 1,063 feet above Madison Avenue. Here, you can stand over the street with just glass between you and the ground. It's certainly not for the faint of heart.

9. Frick Madison

The Frick Madison is now at 945 Madison Avenue—the former home of the Whitney Museum of American Art and the Met Breuer—while Henry Clay Frick's mansion undergoes a massive renovation. This new stint will last two years, and while the Brutalist building by Marcel Breuer is a huge departure from the Gilded Age mansion, the space is offering a much different and rare look at the collection, according to museum officials. Unlike at the Frick Mansion, the Breuer building is a clean slate—stark in contrast, which actually helps to attract the viewer's attention to individual works. Eyes aren't busy looking at ornate furniture here. It's all about seeing the smaller details in the artwork that you might have overlooked at the mansion. According to Anna-Maria and Stephen Kellen Director Ian Wardropper, "It's a different Frick than you’ve ever known."

10. RISENY

RISENY places thrill-seekers inside a 180-degree, 40-foot projection dome that plays 8K aerial footage to create the sensation of flight. (The ride is similar to Disneyland's "Soarin’ Over California" experience.) The experience begins with a film by documentarians Ric Burns and James Sanders—narrated by everyone's fave actor Jeff Goldblum—that touches on NYC’s history, specifically Times Square and its global impact. Then visitors are taken to a re-creation of the city’s first subway station at City Hall circa 1904, which transforms into a fully immersive theater with visual and special effects. Eventually, a present-day subway car virtually transports guests to the galleries. While on the subway car, riders see NYC’s vibrant pop-cultural evolution through seven themed galleries— "Finance," "Skyline," "TV/Radio," "Fashion," "Music," "Broadway" and "Film"—that show off historic artifacts, star-studded memorabilia. Once they get through the galleries, visitors are finally whisked into the air, where they'll "soar" around NYC's landmarks (a rendering shows the Statue of Liberty) to a soundtrack with songs like Taylor Swift’s "Welcome to New York" and Frank Sinatra’s "Theme From New York." The full-motion seats will dip, turn and soar while wind, mist and scents are blown at riders' faces.

11. Edge Observation Deck

The highest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere has landed at Hudson Yards. Sadly, the bird's-eye attraction dubbed Edge won't be open to the public until 2020. But judging by the rendering, it appears to be worth the wait—that is, if you’re not afraid of heights. The building’s outdoor terrace takes you 65-feet into the sky making it the highest public balcony in NYC. The deck not only features panoramic views of our city’s skyline but a killer vantage point below. Brave souls can stand on a large, see-through glass floor and wave to passerby 1,100 feet beneath. Much like the Top of the Rock concept at Rockefeller Center, there’s a 10,000-square-foot bar, restaurant and event space on the 101st floor.

12. Citi Field

Sports and fitness
price 3 of 4

While they haven’t been as successful as their Bronx rivals in recent years, the Mets can certainly be happy about their stadium, which opened in 2009. With great sightlines, fun activities for kids and a prodigious selection of food and booze (including Shake Shack and Blue Smoke outposts), even those with the barest interest in the game will enjoy themselves at the park, which in recent years has also doubled as a concert venue with appearances by mega-stars like Paul McCartney and Nas.

13. Little Island

West Village

New York City’s hottest new attraction, Little Island, opened to the public in May 2021 and has since brought in plenty of visitors who flocked to see Manhattan’s newest “floating” greenspace. Open from 6am to 1am, the park is filled with open lawns, colorful shrubs and trees and a secret garden. While entry is free to the park throughout the day, entering between noon and close requires a reservation. For those feeling peckish, there are affordable food and drink options offered by Savory Hospitality. The park’s amphitheaters, The Glade and The Amph, offer a spectacular view of the Hudson River, with a majority of the events being free throughout the summer. Every Monday night at 6pm, the theater hosts Savory Talks & Performances, a free dialogue around food sustainability and industry trends. The lineup includes local farms and sustainable meat and fish companies, discussing the future of food production, including "elements of storytelling and dance" from Perform in the Park artists.

14. Queens County Farm Museum

Special interest

Though not as easily accessible by public transit as most NYC museums, this Queens County treasure is well worth the bus trek or car ride. As the city’s longest continually farmed site in the city (it’s been in operation since 1697), the 47 acres feels like an entirely different world compared to Manhattan. Feed and pet the barnyard animals, including sheep, ponies and goats, hop aboard a hayride and come back during the fall harvest season when you can go pumpkin picking and attempt to find your way through the Amazing Maize Maze (yes, that’s a corn maze ). Don’t forget to stop by the store on your way out for fresh fruits and veggies grown on the premises!

15. TWA Hotel

Things to do

You can actually look forward to going to JFK International Airport because of this gorgeous, completely renovated TWA Terminal , which serves as a hotel, food and drink, and convention destination. The i nterior of Eero Saarinen’s landmark 1962 building exudes 1960s chic with 512 guest rooms that offer views of JFK’s runways, a Jean-Georges Vongerichten restaurant, a rooftop pool, and an observation deck.

16. Empire State Building

Monuments and memorials

It's practically impossible to imagine the sparkling New York skyline without the iconic Empire State Building. A famed piece of Art Deco architecture that took over 400 days to structurally complete, the skyscraper reaches an astonishing height of 1,454-feet—and while it's no longer the tallest building in New York, it held that title for several decades following its 1931 completion date. Visiting this illustrious landmark? Keep your eyes peeled for some of the finer details in the lobby (lovingly restored in 2009), as well as the incredibly impressive benefits from a $165m investment completed in 2019 (the second- and 80th-floor galleries really are something). Enjoy visions of the t opper’s three tiers of lights, which illuminate up to nine colors at a time and don't miss the rod at the top of the building, which is frequently hit by lightning—yep, you might see sparks (literally) fly. Oh, and (of course) spend some time on the observation deck—the cityscape is ace, and the slick reservation system makes things seamless. Besides, the Empire State is open 365-days a year, so there's no reason to pass this one by.

17. Brooklyn Bridge

Historic buildings and sites

No mere river crossing, this span is an elegant reminder of New York’s history of architectural innovation. When it opened in 1883, the Brooklyn Bridge was a feat of engineering: It was the first structure to cross the East River and, at the time, the longest suspension bridge in the world. (It also made use of steel-wire cables, invented by the bridge’s original designer, John A. Roebling.) Now it attracts thousands of tourists and locals, who enjoy spectacular views of lower Manhattan and other city landmarks (such as the Statue of Liberty and Governors Island) as they stroll its more-than-mile-long expanse. Heads up, though: You may run into the occasional cyclist trying to navigate through the crowds on the pedestrian walkway. —Amy Plitt

18. Central Park

Parks and gardens
Central Park

To feel truly out of the city, head to the 38-acre wilderness area on the west side of the park known as the Ramble. The area has a storied history (as a gay cruising spot dating back to the turn of the last century, among other things), and it was even proposed as a recreational area in the mid-'50s. Thankfully, the winding trails, rocks and streams remain, seemingly waiting to be discovered. If you want plenty of sunshine and more of a social vibe, spread out a blanket at Sheep's Meadow, where groups playing guitar and frisbee and tanning topless are sprawled out as far as the eye can see.

19. Top of the Rock Observation Deck at Rockefeller Center

4 out of 5 stars
Recommended

Let the world believe the Empire State Building has the best view of New York City–it keeps the crowds slightly more manageable at 30 Rockefeller Center’s spectacular open air observation deck. The bird’s eye view of Gotham from 70 stories up allows visitors to not only see other landmark skyscrapers around midtown–including the aforementioned Empire State building–but also to see the full sprawl of Central Park. Not quite as expensive as that other observation deck (Adults $38, seniors $36, children 6-12 $32), and for those who don't want to wait in line, there's a VIP ticket ($75) that gives guests the chance to skip lines and get priority elevator access. If you’re willing to splurge don’t forget to dress up and stop by the Rainbow Room–the historic lounge on the 65th floor–for exceptional cocktails, fine dining, live music and spectacular sightlines that rival the deck’s, albeit a few stories lower.

20. The Statue of Liberty

Liberty Island

Lady Liberty—or Liberty Enlightening the World, as she’s officially known—was a gift from France on America’s 100th birthday. A universal symbol of freedom that welcomed over 10 million immigrants sailing past to Ellis Island during the turn of the 20th century, the copper-plated sentinel stands 305 feet tall from the bottom of her base to the tip of her torch. Reserve well in advance—three weeks or more—to see New York’s skyline from Liberty Island with access to the statue’s crown, and go earlier in the day if you want to also take the ferry to the Ellis Island Immigration Museum.

21. Vessel

3 out of 5 stars

New York’s ever-changing skyline has acquired another sky-high attraction for Gothamites to climb: Vessel. The 60-ton sculpture, located at sleek cultural destination Hudson Yards, resembles a honeycomb, although some New Yorkers joke it looks like a waste can. Others say the larger-than-life art installation designed by British architect Thomas Heatherwick is New York’s version of the Eiffel Tour. We say it looks like a good excuse to exercise and Instagram. Visitors will climb the spiral staircase made up of 154 interconnecting staircases, almost 2,500 individual steps and 80 landings, and while the current sight of construction is less than ideal (the attraction just opened to the public on March 15), the various outlook points offer sweeping views of the Hudson River that will appear mighty dreamy at sunset. Know before you go visiting and climbing Hudson Yards’ new jungle gym is free, but you must reserve a time slot and get tickets in advance. Every morning at 8am same-day tickets are up for grabs, if you cant get a reservation in advance.

Note: The Vessel is currently closed. Check its website for reopening plans.

22. The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Sprawling doesn’t even begin to describe this Manhattan institution: It’s one of the few spots in the city where you could spend literally an entire day and see only a fraction of the holdings. Behind the doors of its iconic neoclassical facade lie 17 curatorial collections spanning countless eras and cultural perspectives, from prehistoric Egyptian artifacts to contemporary photography. Those seeking to satisfy their anthropological curiosity can explore the extensive assemblage of musical instruments, weapons and armor or the Costume Institute’s centuries of wearable art. And for committed museumgoers who have made their way through the permanent collections—an admirable feat—special exhibitions merit return visits year after year. Recent blockbusters have examined the career of the late designer Alexander McQueen and featured the works of Pablo Picasso. —Carolyn Stanley

23. Chrysler Building

Civic buildings

We won’t argue if you want to call this glimmering pinnacle of Art Deco architecture NYC’s most eye-popping skyscraper. Triangle-shaped windows in its crown are lined with lights, creating a beautiful effect come nighttime. Oozing a moneyed sophistication oft identified with old New York, the structure pays homage to its namesake with giant eagles (replicas of ones added to Chrysler automobiles in the 1920s) in lieu of traditional gargoyles and a brickwork relief sculpture of racing cars, complete with chrome hubcaps. During the famed three-way race to construct Manhattan’s tallest building, the Chrysler added a needle-sharp stainless-steel spire to best 40 Wall Street—but was outdone shortly after its completion in 1930 by the Empire State Building. —Tim Lowery

24. The High Line

When the weather is pleasant, there’s nothing quite like walking the High Line. NYC’s elevated park is certainly one of more popular New York attractions everyone needs to check off their list. To give you a bit of history, the High Line was once a railway line, in use until 1980. In 2009, the 1.45-mile-long strip was transformed into what is now considered one of the most unique parks in NYC. Featuring wildflowers, greenery and outdoor art installations in addition to killer views of New York’s skyline. — Evelyn Derico

25. Rockefeller Center

You’ll find a smorgasbord of New York sites in this distinctive, multi-block complex—in fact, the ground level alone is home to the tourist-packed ice-skating rink, the bronze Atlas statue and the ‘Today Show’ plaza. Higher up, Top of the Rock rivals the Empire State Building in panoramic city views. You may not be able to access the five private rooftop gardens if you’re not a Saturday Night Live cast member, but you can still peek at the spaces from Saks Fifth Avenue’s eighth-floor shoe department if you can't help but be curious. Special credentials are not required, however, to inspect the Art Deco murals that appear in several buildings. Don’t miss the triptych above the outdoor entrance to 5 Rockefeller Center or the rinkside Prometheus statue; both purportedly contain secret Freemason symbols. —Allison Williams

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26. Grand Central Terminal

For over a hundred years, this transit hub has funneled thousands of daily commuters (over 700,000 a day) through its expansive halls and concourses. Though technically a passageway for those looking to go elsewhere, the building is certainly a destination in it's own right. With its grandiose Beaux Arts framework, the terminal is a spectacle of both form and function. Familiar features include the vaulted, constellation-adorned ceiling and the four-faced opal clock topping the main information booth, both located in the Grand Concourse. Above the 42nd Street entrance find symbolism of Mercury, the god of travel (naturally), and an ornate Tiffany-glass timepiece. — Dan Q. Dao

27. Prospect Park

Urban visionaries Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, who most famously designed Central Park, also put their stamp on bucolic, 526-acre Prospect Park. Amenities like the Long Meadow and Nethermead offer plenty of space to pull up on a patch of grass and indulge in some people-watching, and the woodland expanse of the Ravine is a towering forest within bustling Brooklyn. But we also have to give props to Robert Moses: The controversial city planner was behind some of the park’s kid-friendly offerings, including the zoo and LeFrak Center at Lakeside, where roller skating and ice skating goes down.

28. Brooklyn Museum

Brooklyn’s premier institution is a less-crowded alternative to Manhattan’s bigger-name spaces, though the innovative and impactful items found inside are just as important as anything you'll find in the city. The museum, found on the edge of the sprawling Prospect Park, has a large holding of Egyptian art as well as the famous feminist piece, The Dinner Party, by Judy Chicago. Works by such Impressionists masters as Cézanne, Monet and Degas are also included in the collection along with with prime examples of Early American Art, period rooms and so much more.

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29. Whitney Museum of American Art

When Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney, a sculptor and art patron, opened the museum in 1931, she dedicated it to living American artists. Today, the Whitney holds about 19,000 pieces by nearly 2,900 artists, including Alexander Calder, Edward Hopper, Jasper Johns, Georgia O’Keeffe and Claes Oldenburg. Still, the museum’s reputation rests mainly on its temporary shows, particularly the Whitney Biennial. Held in even-numbered years, the Biennial is among the most prestigious (and controversial) assessments of contemporary art in America. The 2015 opening of the Renzo Piano-designed edifice near the High Line drew acclaim for its sleek and simplistic layout. —Andrew Frisicano

30. New-York Historical Society

Upper West Side

History buffs will love this Upper West Side institution. Built in 1804, it's the oldest museum in New York City. In a nod to the city’s heritage, the museum kept the hyphen in its name, which is how New York was known in the early 1800s. The collection features more than 1.6 million works that explore the history of the city and the country, including exhibits, art and historical artifacts. Don’t miss floor four, where you’ll find the center for Women’s History and a glowing gallery of 100 beautiful Tiffany lamps. — Cristina Gibson

31. Bronx Zoo Wildlife Conservation Society

Located in the Bronx (obvs) this massive attraction is the largest metropolitan zoo in the country. Spanning 265 acres, it has numerous exhibits, forests, outdoor activities and restaurants. Oh, and don’t forget about the 5,000+ animals! There are lions and tigers and bears (both grizzly and polar), all residing in naturalistic habitats. You can easily spend hours walking the trails past themed exhibits, like the African Plains or World of Reptiles. The zoo also has premium exhibits for an additional fee, but the sea lion feeding is completely free and highly recommended. — Rebecca Fontana

32. Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

New York’s Guggenheim is as famous for its landmark building—designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and restored on its 50th birthday in 2009—as it is for its impressive collection and daring temporary art shows. The museum owns Peggy Guggenheim’s trove of cubist, surrealist and abstract expressionist works, along with the Panza di Biumo Collection of American minimalist and conceptual art from the 1960s and ’70s. In addition to works by Manet, Picasso, Chagall and Bourgeois, the Guggenheim holds the largest collection of Kandinskys in the U.S. — Howard Halle

33. Times Square

Manhattan’s heart was once a hub for vice, teeming with sex shops and drug dealers. Over time that notorious reputation has eroded, and now the area can feel like a tourist-clogged shopping mall. Still, changes such as the stairs above the TKTS booth and a pedestrian plaza along Broadway have improved the sightseeing experience…sort of. If the thought of attending the annual glitzy New Year’s Eve celebration gives you hives, you can see the midnight countdown re-created on a smaller scale at the Times Square Visitor Center, thanks to one of the Waterford crystal balls used in years past. —Allison Williams

34. New York Botanical Garden

Every city park offers its own brand of verdant escapism, but this lush expanse goes beyond landscaped flora. In addition to housing swaths of vegetation—including the 50-acre forest, featuring some of the oldest trees in the city—the garden cultivates a rotating roster of shows that nod to the world’s most cherished green spaces, such as the regal grounds of Spain’s Alhambra palace and Monet’s alfresco sanctuary at Giverny. —Sarah Bruning

35. Brooklyn Flea

Markets and fairs

Attending an outdoor bazaar is certainly a must here in New York, and Brooklyn Flea is hands-down one of the top flea markets to hit. The market has everything, including an impressive selection of throwback wares and records, which you certainly wouldn’t find in any vintage clothing store or record store in the city. The food selection is also nothing to sneeze at, since the creators also operate one of the city’s best food festivals: Smorgasburg.

36. Flushing Meadows–Corona Park

Give the city’s fourth-biggest park a day and it’ll show you the world: Its most enduring icon is the Unisphere, the mammoth steel globe created for the 1964 World’s Fair. But there’s also first-rate culture and sports at the New York Hall of Science, Arthur Ashe Stadium and Citi Field (depending on how the Mets are doing). The rolling green fields also encompass a zoo, a boating lake, a skate park, a barbecue area, playfields, and a $66 million aquatic and hockey center. In 2011, wetland plants such as swamp azalea and swamp milkweed were added to better handle the park’s water runoff, improving the catch-and-release fishing in Meadow Lake. —Allison Williams

37. Brookfield Place

Battery Park City

This downtown luxury complex, originally dubbed the World Financial Center, is now home to a number of offices including Merrill Lynch and American Express. On the ground level, however, find a mecca of retail attractions ranging from fashion (Burberry, Hermes, Gucci) to dining (Amada, the food hall Le District). Beyond shopping, stroll around the space to enjoy installations of art in the glass-encased winter garden, or head outdoors for ice skating during cold-weather months. — Dan Q. Dao

See Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty, and Battery Park.

38. Chelsea Market

Once home to a National Biscuit Company (Nabisco) factory, this Chelsea-set food court caters to locals and restaurant-savvy tourists alike. An ever-changing lineup of dining and drinking options range from all-star Philadelphia hummus slingers Dizengoff to the oyster-and-seafood bar Cull & Pistol and the master-sommelier–helmed Corkbuzz Wine Studio, while commercial vendors include Anthropologie, Posman Books and the locally-driven Artists & Fleas. A stone's throw away from High Line Park and the nightlife hub of the Meatpacking District, the market is a must-visit destination when in the area. — Dan Q. Dao

39. Apollo Theater

This Harlem institution has been the site of more than a few historic moments: Ella Fitzgerald’s first performance happened here in 1934; Live at the Apollo, recorded in 1962, practically launched James Brown into the mainstream; and a young Jimi Hendrix won an Amateur Night contest in 1964. Despite its storied history and grand decor, this living link to the Harlem Renaissance feels rather cozy inside. As of late, the theater has attracted big-name comedians (Aziz Ansari, Tracy Morgan, Jim Gaffigan) and huge rock stars (Paul McCartney, Bruce Springsteen), while still welcoming under-the-radar talent to its famed Wednesday Amateur Night. —Tim Lowery

40. Brooklyn Heights and Brooklyn Promenade

Brooklyn Heights

For a great place to enjoy a panoramic view of everything the city has to offer, beeline for Brooklyn Promenade. Opened in 1950, this one-third-mile stretch of pavement along the East River has long been a favorite destination of residents, tourists and couples looking to make out next to an unforgettable span of NYC’s skyline. Breathtaking views of the Brooklyn Bridge and Statue of Liberty are both visible from here. Follow the views with a stroll around the 19th-century row houses down Brooklyn Heights’ tree-lined side streets, or head down to Brooklyn Bridge Park.

41. Macy’s Herald Square

Department stores

Holiday windows and enormous balloons may draw gawkers to Macy’s flagship during the winter, but the mammoth department store is a year-round destination for some 20 million shoppers. The $400 million renovation in 2015 outfitted the store with ostensibly Millennial-friendly gear like 3D printers, selfie-walls and laser-imaging tech, but restored the 34th St entrance and iconic rickety wooden escalators that have been at Herald Square since its opening in 1902. This department store is also home to the always stunning and annual Macy's Flower Show . —Allison Williams

42. Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Prospect Park

Those searching for a little peace and quiet would do well to spend a few hours at this verdant oasis. The garden—which abuts two other neighborhood gems: the Brooklyn Museum and Prospect Park—was founded in 1910 and features thousands of types of flora, laid out over 52 acres. Each spring, crowds descend on the space for the Sakura Matsuri Festival, during which many trees bloom along the Cherry Esplanade. But equally impressive are serene spots like the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden, the first Japanese-inspired garden displayed in the U.S., and the Shakespeare Garden, brimming with plants (such as primrose and crocuses) mentioned in the Bard’s works. —Amy Plitt

43. Yankee Stadium

The Bombers’ current field opened in 2009 to much fanfare and stands opposite the now-flattened original. It may not be the House That Ruth Built, but many elements of the new arena—the limestone exterior, the gatelike frieze around the top—mimic the old, plus cup holders at every seat and a high-def scoreboard are noticeable improvements. A museum behind center field aims to hold signed baseballs from every living Yankees player, but the most potent relic wasn’t allowed to stay on site—in 2008 the construction staff jackhammered out a Red Sox jersey a rival fan tried to install in the structure’s foundation. —Allison Williams

44. American Museum of Natural History

Science and technology

Beyond the iconic, show-stopping displays–the grizzly bear in the Hall of North American Mammals, the 94-feet long blue whale, the prehistoric Barosaurus skeleton rearing up as if to scare the adjacent Allosaurus skeleton–is an expertly curated, 148-year-old museum that fills visitors of all ages with a curiosity about the universe. Whether you’re interested in the world below our feet, or the cultures of faraway lands or the stars light-years beyond our reach, your visit is bound to teach you a few things you never knew. — Tolly Wright

45. Union Square

Union Square

This gathering place was named for the union of two of Manhattan’s busiest thoroughfares: Broadway and Fourth Avenue (formerly Bowery Road). Political activism has played a large role in the site’s history; the square has hosted rallies, protests and assemblies from the Civil War through Occupy Wall Street. Nowadays, its biggest draw might be the year-round Greenmarket—the city’s first, started by a handful of farmers in 1976—which brings locally grown goods to thousands of New Yorkers every week. —Carolyn Stanley

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46. Flatiron Building

This 21-story Beaux Arts edifice once dominated midtown. Although it’s now dwarfed by other structures, when it debuted in 1902, the triangle-shaped monolith represented the threat and the thrill of modernity: Naysayers claimed it would never withstand the high winds plaguing 23rd Street, while revered photographer Alfred Stieglitz—who captured it in an iconic shot in 1903—wrote that it was “a picture of a new America still in the making.” Today, it’s possibly the least tourist-friendly New York landmark. The space above the ground-floor shops, occupied by publishing house Macmillan, is inaccessible to the public, but during office hours you can admire black-and-white photos and read a few panels on the history of the tower in its lobby. If you want to see the “point” offices (just over six feet wide at their narrowest), we suggest getting to work on the Great American Novel. —Jonathan Shannon

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47. The Cloisters

Art and design
Washington Heights

This Middle Ages museum may have been constructed in the ’30s, but it feels much older than that. Set in a bucolic park overlooking the Hudson River, the structure re-creates architectural details from five 15th-century monasteries and houses items from the Met’s medieval art and architecture collections. John D. Rockefeller, who donated the land for the museum, even purchased a tract across the river to preserve the pristine view. Make sure to inspect the tapestries, including the famous 16th-century Hunt of the Unicorn. —Andrew Frisicano

48. Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

Military and maritime
Hell's Kitchen

Get schooled on the glorious history of American aviation and the brave heroes who pioneered the world's last frontier at this non-profit, educational institution featuring the titular, legendary aircraft carrier Intrepid. Founded in 1982, the museum also boasts an unparalleled collection of fighter jets, a Blackbird spy plane, a Concorde, the nuclear submarine USS Growler, a prototype space shuttle and a capsule that returned one of the first astrotourists to earth. Permanent exhibits include a harrowing 30-minute video with audiovisual effects about the kamikaze attacks the Intrepid suffered, while new, rotating programs range from a summer movie series (kicking off with Star Trek , fittingly) to an annual Space & Science Festival. — Dan Q. Dao

49. Lincoln Center

One of the world's largest campuses for the performing and visual arts, Lincoln Center began its construction in 1959 thanks in part to funding from John D. Rockefeller III. Today, the center houses 30 world-class venues—including the Metropolitan Opera House, the David H. Koch Theater and the Julliard School—as well as 11 resident organizations that collectively host thousands of events every year. At the heart of the complex is the well-recognized Josie Robertson Plaza whose fountain can be seen spouting white-lit jets of water with the golden glow of the Met lobby serving as an elegant backdrop. — Dan Q. Dao

50. South Street Seaport

Hurricane Sandy may have temporarily wounded the famed Lower Manhattan sightseeing draw in 2012, but with recent developments by the Howard Hughes Corporation—including a pop-up-friendly Culture District and a fancy dine-in movie theater iPic — prove that the iconic port is back and better than ever. — David Goldberg

51. National Museum of the American Indian

Natural history

The life and culture of Native Americans is presented in rotating exhibitions—from Navajo jewelry to ritual tribal-dance costumes—along with contemporary artwork. The Diker Pavilion for Native Arts & Culture, which opened in 2006, has already made its mark on the cultural life of the city by offering the only dedicated showcase for Native American visual and performing arts.

52. Museum of Modern Art (MOMA)

Sure, you could spend a day getting lost in the permanent exhibits, which showcase all manner of priceless pieces from renowned artists. But just as essential are this museum’s other elements, including an attached cinema that combines art-house fare and more accessible offerings, a sculpture garden with works by Picasso and Rodin, and the Modern, a high-end restaurant and bar run by Danny Meyer. Free Fridays, an alluring prospect considering the sizable entry fee ($25 for adults), are best left to the tourists and penny-scraping students; visit the museum when you can hunker down for a while.

53. Queens Museum

Located on the grounds of two World’s Fairs, the QMA holds one of Gotham’s most amazing sights: The Panorama of the City of New York , a 9,335-square-foot scale model of the five boroughs, created for the 1964 exposition and featuring Lilliputian models of landmarks. With an ambitious expansion project in 2009, the museum doubled in size when it reopened in 2013, featuring public events spaces, eight new artists studios and a glass façade featuring Grand Central Parkway. —Andrew Frisicano

54. St. Patrick’s Cathedral

Religious buildings and sites

Even though it faces off against the imposing Art Deco Rockefeller Center, architect James Renwick's Gothic Revival building holds it own with intricate marble towers, a cavernous ribbed vault, pointed arches and buttresses. But the real treasures are inside this active house of worship, which is bursting with awe-inspiring works. With a $175 million restoration project completed in 2015, visitors can delight in a shimmering, bronzed and polished new interior. More than 200 saints are represented throughout the church, with many alters helpfully explaining their stories for those who cut Bible studies class. Seek out the alter of Saint Louis, just north of the Lady's Chapel, designed by the Tiffany workshop and donated by Jackie O's father Michael Bouvier. To the south of Saint Louis is an oversized copy of Michelangelo's Pieta, made by the same sculptor who fashioned the lions outside the New York Public Library on 42nd Street. —Jonathan Shannon

55. MoMA PS1

Long Island City

Fans of the Manhattan predecessor won't mind crossing the river to find this Long Island City offshoot, which is unique for its constantly evolving lineup of avant-garde artwork and new programs. And while there's no shortage of world-renowned artists supplying work here (Janet Cardiff, Olafur Eliasson), the venue also curates one of the city’s most popular music events, Warm Up, which pairs innovative installations with live music from up-and-coming acts to challenge visitors’ expectations of what art can be. — Dan Q. Dao

56. Chinatown

Take a walk in the area south of Broome Street and east of Lafayette, and you’ll feel as though you’ve entered not just a different country but a different continent. Mott and Grand Streets are lined with stands selling exotic foodstuffs such as live eels, square watermelons and hairy rambutans, while Canal Street glitters with jewelry stores and gift shops. Here you’ll find some of the best restaurants in NYC representing the cuisine of virtually every province of mainland China and Hong Kong, plus Indonesian, Malaysian, Thai and Vietnamese eateries and shops. As Chinatown—NYC's largest Asian community—continues to grow, it merges with neighboring Little Italy and the Lower East Side. — Tazi Phillips

57. Washington Square Park arch

Greenwich Village

The beatniks, folkies and hippies who famously flocked to this public space are still there, though sporting slightly different facial hair than their boundary-breaking predecessors. During warmer months, the park is one of the best people-watching spots in the city, as musicians and street artists perform in the shadow of the towering 1895 Washington Arch, a modest replica of Paris’s Arc de Triomphe designed by Stanford White (whose fingerprints are found on more than a few landmark NYC structures). From 2007–2014, the park underwent a controversial, multimillion-dollar renovation, which has yielded more benches, paths, lawn space and vegetation. —Tim Lowery

Go on a two-hour walking tour of Greenwich Village.

58. Madison Square Garden

Music venues

Big, beloved and not-so-beautiful MSG is perhaps the most famous sports arena in the world. Perched above Penn Station since 1968, the 20,000 seat venue is not only home to New York basketball and ice hockey teams the Knicks and the Rangers, but also is a favorite spot for college basketball tournaments (The Big East), professional boxing, MMA fighting and, as a destination for WWE. Non-sports fans, however, mainly know the Garden as the best spot in town to catch touring international sensations like Adele, Beyonce and Aziz Ansari and countless other amazing concerts.. To learn about the history of the arena, which existed in several other iterations at other locations for the past 130 years, and for a look at where the athletes get dressed, check out the all-access tour ($26.95, seniors and students $19.95, or with show ticket an additional $16, group rates available), which has stops in the locker rooms, the arena bowl and through exhibits featuring images and paraphernalia from iconic moments in sports and performance history. — Tolly Wright

59. Socrates Sculpture Park

In 1986, artists and activists created this 4.5-acre city park over a landfill. Now, it hosts large-scale sculpture exhibits year-round, and is one of the few locations in the city specifically designated for artists to create outdoor works. The splendid Queens space looks out over the Manhattan skyline and is open 365 days a year, with a Greenmarket, free yoga and tai chi classes and more.

60. AKC Museum of the Dog

Exhibitions

Here’s a pawsh art musem for pups. On February 8, the AKC Museum of the Dog reopend in midtown, and New Yorkers have been panting in excitement ever since. The American Kennel Club moved the original exhibit, formerly doghoused in the New York Life Building, closer to its home turf and library. To be clear: This is not a relentlessly Instagrammable Museum of Ice Cream or Museum of Pizza situation. So, why dig up the 15 bones to enter? For the photo booth that reveals which dog breed you look most like. Have your pup-arazzi moment!

61. Snug Harbor Cultural Center

Staten Island
price 1 of 4

Sitting just a ferry ride away from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan, this Staten Island gem, a former home for retired sailers, is still somewhat of a secret. Spread across 83 acres, the area boasts an enormous botanical garden and cultural center surrounded by cobblestone streets and tiny paths of Victorian and Tudor homes. One of the most popular attractions here is the Chinese Scholar’s Garden, fitted with magnificent rocks meant to resemble mountains inspired by the poetry and paintings of Confucian, Buddhist and Taoist monks, as well as a bamboo forest path and Koi-filled pond.

62. Bryant Park

Hitting up midtown's most beloved park? Situated behind the New York Public Library lies a a well-cultivated retreat that hosts a dizzying schedule of free entertainment during the summer, including the popular outdoor movies. In the winter, visit the Bank of America Winter Village for the free ice skating rink and pop-up shops for the holidays.

63. Smorgasburg

Restaurants

New Yorkers love eating outside, whether it’s at one of the city’s best waterfront restaurants, elevated rooftop bars or open-air food flea markets like Brooklyn’s famed Smorgasburg. A favorite amongst locals and tourists alike, Smorg features nearly 100 vendors selling seriously delicious and graciously cheap snacks. It’s open from April to November (11am-6pm) at Williamsburg’s East River Park on Saturdays and at Prospect Park’s Breeze Hill on Sundays. — Christina Izzo

64. Museum of the Moving Image

Movies and TV

Only 15 minutes from midtown, the Museum of the Moving Image is one of the city’s most dynamic institutions. Rubbing elbows with Kaufman Astoria Studios, it includes a three-story extension that features a state-of-the-art 267-seat cinema and expanded gallery spaces. Meanwhile, the museum’s “Behind the Screen” exhibit examines every step of the filmmaking process, with artifacts from more than 1,000 different productions, and 14 classic (playable!) video games, including Asteroids, Ms. Pac-Man and Space Invaders . And do not miss its fairly new Jim Henson exhibit, where you can "meet" all your favorite Muppets and Sesame Street characters.

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65. New Museum of Contemporary Art

Lower East Side

The New Museum takes its name from The New School, where it originally opened in 1977. After a move to Soho, where the it became a fixture througout the ’80s and ’90s, the New Museum moved into its current location in 2007. It houses three main gallery levels, a theater, a café operated by Hester Street Fair and roof terraces. The New Musem focuses it program on emerging—and important but under-recognized—artists.

66. The Jewish Museum

The Jewish Museum, housed in the 1908 Warburg Mansion, mounts temporary exhibitions of contemproary and modern art and also has a substantial collection of artworks of art and Judaica. There is a permanent exhibit specifically for children, as well as a restuarant that includes an Uptown outpost of Russ & Daughters, the iconic Lower East Side purveyors of Kosher delicacies like lox, sable and whitefish.

67. The 9/11 Memorial and Museum

In the footprints of where the Twin Towers once stood are North America’s largest man-made waterfalls, the bottoms of which seem to be impossible to see. The twin reflecting pools, the 9/11 Memorial designed by Michael Arad, are a solemn reminder of all that was lost during the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001 and the World Trade Center bombing in 1993. Lining the pools, each one acre in size, are bronze panels with the names of the 3,000 deceased victims from the attacks, including the rescue personnel who died helping the other victims. For those who wish to pay their respects to the tragedy and learn more about the events that transpired, the museum serves as the leading collection of artifacts and documentation of September 11. Inside, visitors can hear first-hand accounts of survivors, see picture and video footage of the attacks and see recovered objects such as wrecked recovery vehicles, large pieces of warped metal foundation and the 30-foot National 9/11 Flag. — Tolly Wright

68. Blue Note

The Blue Note prides itself on being "the jazz capital of the world." Bona fide musical titans (Eddie Palmieri, Ron Carter) rub against hot young talents, while the close-set tables in the club get patrons rubbing up against each other. Arrive early to secure a good spot—and we recommend shelling out for a table seat.

69. Theater District

Each year, about 13 million locals and tourists take in Broadway shows at one of NYC's 40 Broadway theaters. Most of those venues are located in the theater district—roughly, 41st Street to 52nd Street and Sixth Ave to Eighth Ave. Each season brings a new wave of megamusicals, plays and star-driven revivals. Some boast gold from the Tony Awards. At the height of the fall and spring seasons, be sure to check our homepage for new critics picks, reviews and cheap broadway tickets. The savvy consumer can find discount tickets at most Broadway shows. NYC hurry—the curtain’s about to rise! — David Cote

70. The Noguchi Museum

This 12 gallery space occupies a former photo-engraving plant, and the entire building was designed by the artist and sculpturer Isamu Noguchi to be a meditative oasis amid its gritty, industrial setting. As well as some of his most iconic sculptures, drawn, painted and collaged studies, architectural models, and stage and furniture designs, there is a garden populated with Noguchi’s work.

71. Coney Island Cyclone

Arcades and amusements

You can guarantee that the majority of New Yorkers have ridden the Cyclone. After all, it’s stood on the banks of the Coney Island Channel since 1927, which is a fair feat considering it’s constructed from wood. Thanks to a cash injection from Astroland, an organization that took over in the ’70s, this rollicking ride is still going strong, which will bring some comfort to remember when you’re being flung around the old thrill ride. — Danielle Goldstein

Experience the magic of New York City.

72. Queens Night Market

Consider yourself a travel-loving foodie? Queens Night Market is your one-stop-shop in NYC to discover bites from 80 countries. Beginning in April through October, t ry a diverse range of grub that runs the gamut from Middle Eastern stews and Barbadian fishballs to Romanian-Hungarian chimney cake and tacos al pastor. The open-air bazaar operates from 5pm to midnight every Saturday, but the market has more to offer aside from fulfilling your late-night food cravings. There’s always a great lineup of live music and performances such as Bollywood dancers, Indian electronica tunes, DJs and more. Check out queensnightmarket.com for the schedule.

73. Radio City Music Hall

New York City is full of legendary performance venues, but few match Radio City Music Hall in terms of sheer elegance. The Art Deco concert hall remains one of the prettiest in the city: Designed by Donald Deskey, its interior features opulent chandeliers and lush carpets, while the stage and proscenium are meant to resemble a setting sun. Although Radio City is probably best known as the home of the Rockettes, a plethora of noteworthy performers have graced its boards, including huge pop stars (Lady Gaga, the Jonas Brothers) and indie faves (Pulp, Grizzly Bear). —Amy Plitt

74. New York Public Library, Stephen A Schwarzman Building

The century-old main branch of the NYPL is about as regal a setting for reading—either on your laptop or those old dusty things called books—as you’ll find in the city. Two massive Tennessee-marble lions, dubbed Patience and Fortitude, flank the main portal and have become the institution’s mascots. Once inside, check out the cavernous Rose Main Reading Room, spanning almost 300 feet and outfitted with chandeliers and stunning ceiling murals. Though it’s a classy setting in most instances, it’s also where Bill Murray uttered, “Are you, Alice, menstruating right now?” and “Back off, man, I’m a scientist” in Ghostbusters . —Tim Lowery

75. Governors Island

The Hills on Governors Island are alive but not necessarily with the sound of music. Instead, you can hear the hum of parkgoers and their bicycles as they tool around the island’s two-plus-mile promenade, the gleeful squeals of folks slithering down one of the four massive slides and the delighted gasps of visitors ogling perfect views of the New York Harbor and Lower Manhattan. While much of the green space’s landscape has changed (and, oh, is it hilly), preexisting features such as Hammock Grove and Picnic Point are still major focal points. —Jennifer Sugnet

See lower and midtown Manhattan on a 90-minute cruise.

76. The Rubin Museum of Art

Opened in 2004, this six-story museum (once home to Barneys New York) houses Donald and Shelley Rubin’s impressive collection of Himalayan art and artifacts, as well as large-scale temporary exhibitions.

77. Get a taste of the Lower East Side

You know, the only real way to the heart of a city it's through its belly. So what better way to dive into the history of this cultural melting pot one mouthful at a time than by sampling the best food spots on the Lower East Side – all the while discovering the rich immigrant history that gives this concrete jungle its unique cosmopolitan flavor. The tour consists of four main food stops with several sites along the way like the African Burial Ground Monument and St Patrick's Old Cathedral – a significant landmark for the Irish Catholic community. You'll cut through Chinatown as well as Little Italy and taste the beloved knish – originating from the Ashkenazi Jewish community – for the first time. Perfect if you've got three hours to kill, and are looking for something fun for under 100 bucks. Steal.

78. Village Vanguard

After more than 80 years, this basement club’s stage still hosts the crème de la crème of mainstream jazz talent. Plenty of history has been made here—John Coltrane, Miles Davis and Bill Evans have grooved in this hallowed hall—and the 16-piece Vanguard Jazz Orchestra has been the Monday-night regular since 1966. Thanks to the venue's strict no cell phone policy, seeing a show here feels like stepping back and time. It's just you and the music.

79. The Tenement Museum

This fascinating museum—actually a series of restored tenement apartments at 97 Orchard Street—is accessible only by guided tour. Costumed "residents" give glimpses into the daily lives of immigrant clans that called the building home over the decades, bringing to life the stories in an engaging and captivating way.

80. Fotografiska

Photography

The Fotografiska gallery in Stockholm, Sweden has opened a New York Branch in the heart of the Flatiron District that features three floors of exhibition space as well as Verōnika, a dining room and bar. The gallery itself mounts temporary exhibits featuring photos from “grand masters and emerging talent” that range from “easily accessible to hardcore conceptual.”

81. Merchant's House Museum

New York City’s only preserved 19th-century family home is an elegant, late Federal-Greek Revival house stocked with the same furnishings and decorations that filled its rooms when it was inhabited by hardware tycoon Seabury Treadwell and his descendants from 1835 to 1933.

82. The Morgan Library & Museum

Murray Hill

This Madison Avenue institution began as the private library of financier J. Pierpont Morgan and is his artistic gift to the city. Building on the collection Morgan amassed in his lifetime, the space houses first-rate works, including drawings by Michelangelo, Rembrandt and Picasso; three Gutenberg Bibles; a copy of Frankenstein annotated by Mary Shelley; manuscripts by Dickens, Poe, Twain, Steinbeck and Wilde; sheet music handwritten by Beethoven and Mozart; and an original edition of Dickens’s A Christmas Carol that’s displayed every yuletide. This is certainly not your average library.

83. Neue Galerie New York

Upper East Side

This elegant addition to the city’s museum scene is devoted entirely to late-19th- and early-20th-century German and Austrian fine and decorative arts. The brainchild of the late art dealer Serge Sabarsky and cosmetics mogul Ronald S. Lauder, it houses the largest concentration of works by Gustav Klimt (including his iconic Adele Bloch-Bauer I ) and Egon Schiele outside Vienna. You’ll also find a bookstore, a chic (and expensive) design shop and the Old World–inspired Café Sabarsky, serving updated Austrian cuisine and ravishing Viennese pastries.

84. Museum of Sex (MoSex)

Situated in the former Tenderloin district, which bumped-and-grinded with dance halls and brothels in the 1800s, MoSex explores the subject within a cultural context—but that doesn’t mean some content won’t shock the more buttoned-up visitor. Highlights include a permanent collection ranging from a silicone Real Doll torso through to a nine-foot steel-framed love pen donated by a local dominatrix, to sex machines created by keen DIYers, such as the “Monkey Rocker,” constructed from a dildo and exercise equipment. Maybe not one to visit with your mom...

85. El Museo del Barrio

East Harlem

Located in Spanish Harlem (a.k.a. El Barrio), El Museo del Barrio is dedicated to the work of Latino artists who reside in the U.S., as well as Latin American masters. The 6,500-piece permanent collection ranges from pre-Colombian artifacts to contemporary installations. The space also features updated galleries, an exposed courtyard for programming and events, and a Pan-Latino cafe that serves tacos, chili, and rice and beans.

[image] [title]

7 Key Things To Know Before Your First Trip To New York City

Destinations
New York City
United States

New York City is diverse, lively, dense, and home to iconic sights and symbols like the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building. Streets are filled with skyscrapers. It’s a mix of cultures and foods and world-class art. Theater is top quality here. You can shop till you drop. At Times Square, you will marvel at the oversized flashing lighted signs that surround the crowds below. And when you are tired of the bustle, escape to the wonders of Central Park with its lakes and trees and grassy hills.

With all New York City has to offer, it’s easy to get overwhelmed when planning a trip, especially if it’s your first time in NYC. Here are some major things to know that will help. Be flexible once you get to New York, but at least have a game plan ahead of time so you can best enjoy this wonderfully complex city.

View of Manhattan and the rest of New York City

1. New York City Is Manhattan And More

New York City is made up of five boroughs, with Manhattan at its core. While you can venture to Brooklyn , the Bronx, Queens, and Staten Island, you will want to center your first trip in Manhattan. This is where you’ll find the Empire State Building , Times Square, Broadway shows, and Central Park . If you have time, walk across the Brooklyn Bridge or take the subway to the Bronx. If you have only a few days, plan to spend most of your time in Manhattan.

Hyatt Grand Central in Manhattan, New York City, at night

2. Sleep In Manhattan But Not In Times Square

Staying in Manhattan on your first trip allows you to fit in the most sightseeing. That doesn’t narrow it down a lot, though, as Manhattan is large and there are hundreds of hotels. Many people book a hotel in Times Square because they’ve heard of it and seen the ball drop on TV on New Year’s Eve. But I recommend staying at least a few blocks away from the chaos and noise and giant neon signs of Times Square. Choose a place in your budget and preferences at least a few blocks away.

I like staying near Grand Central Station on East 42nd Street. This puts you at a transportation hub within walking distance of Rockefeller Plaza, Bryant Park, Times Square, and Central Park. I can recommend the Hyatt Grand Central as a mid-priced, clean, attractive option.

If you’re after lower prices, you can opt to stay in New Jersey or Brooklyn, or anywhere outside the middle of Manhattan. The trade-off is more time spent on the train or subway. I like to pack my sightseeing days full of sights, walking out the door of my hotel and being right in the middle of the hustle and bustle. Figure out what’s best for you.

3. Decide On The Iconic Attractions You Want To See

While your interests will determine how you fill your time in New York City, there are three iconic sights that will top your list on your first trip.

The Statue of Liberty National Monument . Lady Liberty, recognized around the world as a symbol of freedom, stands waiting to welcome you to New York. Before you go, think about whether you want to take the boat out to the island and see the statue from her pedestal. Or are you fine with taking the free Staten Island Ferry and getting a close-up view from the water? Do you also want to go to nearby Ellis Island, where immigrants were brought and processed into the U.S. for years? You can get tickets to see both the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Allow basically a morning or afternoon to do the joint tour.

The 9/11 Memorial and Museum

Built where the Twin Towers once stood, the 9/11 Memorial and Museum honors those lost in the terror attacks of September 11, 2001. Be prepared for an emotional experience .

If you are short on time, you can visit just the memorial pools outside the museum. Allow at least 2 hours for the museum.

Central Park

This famous green oasis covering more than 800 acres calls to visitors and locals alike. Stroll along the tree-lined paths or relax on the grassy lawns of North Meadow and Sheep’s Meadow. Marvel at the lovely curves of Bow Bridge. And visit the Imagine memorial to John Lennon.

If time is limited, enter the park at the south end and wander as long as you can. There’s more to see than at the north end of the park. Download a map or app of the park so you can easily find the points you most want to see.

4. Discount Passes May Save You Money

For your first trip to New York City, consider an attractions pass. This can save you money, especially if you plan to visit the most popular places. Basic options include:

All-Inclusive

These are for a set number of days. Fit in as many attractions as you like in that time. Some come with skip-the-line perks. Two to look into are the Sightseeing Pass and the New York Pass .

Number Of Attractions

These are for a set number of attractions, such as three or five choices from the options given. If you know what you most want to see, these are a good kind of pass. One to consider is The Explorer Pass .

Pre-Packaged Passes

You don’t have a choice of which attractions are included. But many of the most popular are included. Check out the CityPass , which is a booklet of six tickets

Do a cost comparison with what you want to see between having a pass and no pass to find out whether you want to invest in one.

5. Choose Where You Will Take In The City Views

The vastness of New York City never ceases to amaze people. And taking in a view of the city from above is a must when you visit. Not only do you see the density of the buildings but you have the water, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty to spy on from up high. Here are four main places that feature a panoramic view. Book tickets ahead of your visit to get the time of day you prefer. If you can choose two of these viewing sites, book one in the daytime and the other at sunset for views of NYC in all lights.

The Edge is an outside platform 101 stories up, and it literally hangs off the edge of the building. You see West Manhattan and south to the Statue of Liberty. The angled glass walls allow you to lean out over the city. And there’s a glassed section of ground where you can stand and look straight down at the city below.

This is my favorite of the city view places. After you get over the strange sensation of feeling like you’re on the brink of falling 100 stories to the sidewalk, it’s quite exciting. And the views are certainly breathtaking.

Top Of The Rock Observation Deck

From the top of Rockefeller Center, you can take in views of Central Park and Manhattan Midtown from 70 floors up. And from the Top of the Rock you can clearly see the Empire State Building. That’s one reason some people recommend this one if you are choosing just one view site. And with indoor and outdoor viewing decks, you can stay inside if it’s cold or rainy.

Empire State Building

This grand symbol of New York, the Empire State Building , is billed as the “world’s most famous skyscraper.” Get your ticket and ride the elevator to the 86th floor, where you can look out at the city from the 360-degree observatory. See the Brooklyn Bridge, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty.

If you choose, you can include a visit to the 102nd floor as well. Here are floor-to-ceiling views that can cover up to 80 miles away on a clear day.

Summit One Vanderbilt

The newest entry into fantastic NYC viewpoints is the Summit . The entrance is inside Grand Central Station. It does have a view of the city, and it also has other floors with mirrors and shiny objects. It’s an experience that goes beyond taking in the city sights. Take a look at the website and see if it’s something you want to do.

The main reading room of the New York Public Library

6. It’s Okay If It’s Rainy Or Very Cold

As your trip gets close, check the weather. If it looks like a day of rain or extreme cold is coming, no problem. Plan for amazing indoor options. A few top picks:

Metropolitan Museum Of Art

This world-class art museum offers so much to see that you could easily spend days here. Not only does it display art from different historical periods and countries, but also the architecture of the building alone is worth a visit.

Like the Louvre in Paris and the British Museum, the Met can be enjoyed in short sessions. Plan for a morning or a few hours. Then, look at the online information about the exhibits. Choose two or three areas that fascinate you and start there. You will likely want to return to see more!

American Museum Of Natural History

This grand museum has been around for 150 years. While it’s a great way to keep young ones in your party busy and happy, I’ve found as a grown-up that I love natural history displays.

Popular exhibits include the brown bears in the North American Hall of Mammals, the massive blue whale model that measures 94 feet, and the huge Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton.

New York Public Library

This imposing building is a great place to shelter from the weather. The stately lions standing guard on the front steps are named Patience and Fortitude. The architecture inside the library is noteworthy. And it’s free.

7. Wear Comfortable Shoes

You may think of New York City as a fashion mecca and figure you need to dress up. But while there are upscale stores and elegant restaurants, for sightseeing, you don’t need to be fancy. You will walk and walk and walk. And that’s the best way to experience New York. So, wear comfortable shoes or flat-heeled boots. And it may be surprising but rest assured that casual clothes are fine for Broadway shows and most restaurants.

These tips touch on some things that can make your trip easier and more fun. With a bit of planning, you will enjoy your time in New York. I’m betting you’ll want to return for more incredible experiences in this fascinating city.

Go over to our New York City category to find out more about the Big Apple:

9 Best Places In New York City To Escape The Crowds
10 Best Spots To Try New York City Pizza, According To The Locals
10 Luxe Lounges To Visit In New York City

As the owner of the travel blog, Exploring Our World , Sharon enjoys taking her readers on a journey with her. Articles often delve into the history of a place, and by adding in a generous number of photos, she inspires others to explore for themselves. In her early travels, she was most frustrated by coming back home and learning that she had missed a fascinating sight or a hidden gem. Now she helps travelers prepare for a trip by passing along travel tips, pointing out lesser known things to see, and alerting them to enjoyable day trips from major cities.

Her travel articles have been published by Stripes Europe Newsletter and the World War 2 Writing and Research Center. Whether she's discovering more about her hometown of San Diego, California or flying to faraway places, she enjoys sharing with travel lovers around the world.

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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.

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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There are loads of types of vacations in New York and the cost will depend on what type of trip you’re taking and for how long you’d like to stay. Here are the latest prices for a 3 night trip for 2 travelers: Top vacation $538; Family vacation $473; Romantic vacation $595; Luxury vacation $650; Budget vacation $309.

Why should you book a vacation package to New York City?

When should you book a vacation package to new york city.

The best time to visit New York City is in the fall, when the weather is cooler and there are several big American traditions which see floats and parades taking to the streets. Some of the most popular events include Thanksgiving Day Parade in June, ice skating at Rockefeller Plaza, and the infamous New Years Eve Countdown in Times Square.

Where should you stay in New York City during your vacation?

For any vacation type in new york city:.

The Knickerbocker Hotel is a NYC landmark in the heart of Times Square with bespoke furniture, sweeping midtown views, and an electric rooftop bar. Take the Jamaica Train and connect via NYC Subway for the most authentic transport between JFK Airport and the Knickerbocker Hotel.

Conrad New York is an unpretentious 5-star hotel near Battery Park which offers daily connections to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. A taxi ride to this east side NYC hotel will cost you approximately 60 dollars and take up to 30 minutes.

For family vacations in New York City:

Novotel New York Times Square is a great central choice to match your the high-paced energy of your kids. Consider pre-booking your airport shuttle through the hotel's reception for a smooth transition from JFK, La Guardia, or Newark airports.

Adjacent to Central Park, the Quin Hotel commissions local graffiti artists to decorate the interior of the building for a truly one-of-a-kind experience in the Big Apple. Take a combination of the Jamaica Train and NYC Subway to show the kids a more authentic angle on New Yorkers.

For romantic vacations in New York City:

Gramercy Park Hotel shoulders one of the most secluded parks in all New York City and also boasts famous iconic artworks from Andy Warhol and Keith Haring in an ever-changing selection. A taxi ride from JFK to Gramercy Park will cost you approximately $60.

The Langham New York on 5th Avenue encompasses all your needs with comfortably intimate rooms, a fitness center, and comprehensive spa treatments. For even more freedom while you travel, consider renting a car at JFK, La Guardia, or Newark airports.

For luxury vacations in New York City:

The London NYC will have you feeling like you've visited two cities in just one trip! It features all-suites accommodation. You can travel in comfort to your midtown hotel like the locals do in an iconic NYC taxi from JFK Airport.

Refinery Hotel puts other accommodation options to shame with a 360 degree rooftop lounge and minimalist modern décor. Just a few blocks from Grand Central Station, it boasts a swanky bar and stunning downtown views. Consider taking the train for a classic experience when traveling in and out of New York City.

For budget vacations in New York City:

The Redbury New York is a 4-star hotel in the NoMad district which features a café, bar, and restaurant onsite so you don't get overwhelmed with choices on your next trip to the Big Apple. The Jamaica Airtrain is the fastest and least expensive way to transfer from midtown to JFK Airport.

Ameritania Times Square's location sets you in the heart of New York City's famous district, also within easy walking distance of the spacious Central Park. The most straightforward way to Times Square is via taxi from JFK Airport, which will cost approximately $60.

Where to stay in New York

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15 Best Things to Do in New York City with the Whole Family

Posted: April 24, 2024 | Last updated: April 24, 2024

<p>New York City is expecting more than 61 million tourists expected to visit in 2023. Should your family be among them? We certainly think so! Sure, we're a little biased (our offices are here!), but who better to give you the inside scoop than some locals? We tapped the expertise of our editors and staff members — especially those who have kids and teens — plus Beth Beckman, Manhattan-based author of <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Little-Kid-Big-City-York/dp/1683692446?tag=syndication-20&ascsubtag=%5Bartid%7C10055.g.44504955%5Bsrc%7Cmsn-us">Little Kid, Big City! New York</a>, to bring you a list of 15 must-sees on your New York City visit.</p><p>The one tip that nearly everyone on our team mentioned: Don't just hang out in Times Square. "It's calmer, cleaner and so much fun in other parts of Manhattan and other boroughs like Brooklyn and Queens," said one editor. After you see a Broadway show or two, head uptown or downtown to explore under-the-radar gems and popular tourist stops that are legit awesome. (Did you know there's a waterfall in NYC?) </p><p>The subway is the most cost-effective way to get around — and city kids often take it by themselves by the time they're in middle school. Buy each family member a <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1553576&url=https%3A%2F%2Fnewyorkpass.com%2Fen-us%2Fblog%2Fpublic-transportation-new-york-city-new-york-metrocard&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.goodhousekeeping.com%2Flife%2Ftravel%2Fg44504955%2Fthings-to-do-in-nyc%2F">$29 New York Metro Card</a> that's good for unlimited rides for a week. Use Google Maps to help you navigate stops and stations; it's often pretty accurate about train times too. We hope to see you in NYC real soon!</p>

New York City is expecting more than 61 million tourists to visit in 2023. Should your family be among them? We certainly think so! Sure, we're a little biased (our offices are here!), but who better to give you the inside scoop than some locals? We tapped the expertise of our editors and staff members — especially those who have kids and teens — plus Beth Beckman, Manhattan-based author of Little Kid, Big City! New York , to bring you a list of 15 must-sees on your New York City visit.

The one tip that nearly everyone on our team mentioned: Don't just hang out in Times Square. "It's calmer, cleaner and so much fun in other parts of Manhattan and other boroughs like Brooklyn and Queens," said one editor. After you see a Broadway show or two, head uptown or downtown to explore under-the-radar gems and popular tourist stops that are legit awesome. (Did you know there's a waterfall in NYC?)

The subway is the most cost-effective way to get around — and city kids often take it by themselves by the time they're in middle school. Buy each family member a $29 New York Metro Card that's good for unlimited rides for a week. Use Google Maps to help you navigate stops and stations; it's often pretty accurate about train times too. We hope to see you in NYC real soon!

<p><strong>Location:</strong> Manhattan </p><p>You could visit Central Park every day on your NYC vacay, and still not see it all. The 843-acre oasis spans over 50 blocks. It's surrounded by skyscrapers and boasts 21 playgrounds, a zoo and a <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1553576&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tripadvisor.com%2FAttraction_Review-g60763-d2549481-Reviews-Swedish_Cottage_Marionette_Theatre-New_York_City_New_York.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.goodhousekeeping.com%2Flife%2Ftravel%2Fg44504955%2Fthings-to-do-in-nyc%2F">Swedish Cottage</a> with Marionette shows. <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1553576&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tripadvisor.com%2FAttraction_Review-g60763-d10755971-Reviews-Wollman_Rink-New_York_City_New_York.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.goodhousekeeping.com%2Flife%2Ftravel%2Fg44504955%2Fthings-to-do-in-nyc%2F">Wollman Rink</a> is typically the go-to for ice skating, but for the summer, it has been transformed into a giant pickleball installation with 14 courts. Since it's easier to come and go to the park as you please if you stay in a nearby hotel, put <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1553576&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tripadvisor.com%2FHotel_Review-g60763-d234762-Reviews-Hilton_Club_The_Quin_New_York-New_York_City_New_York.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.goodhousekeeping.com%2Flife%2Ftravel%2Fg44504955%2Fthings-to-do-in-nyc%2F">Hilton Club The Quin </a>and <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1553576&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tripadvisor.com%2FHotel_Review-g60763-d93464-Reviews-Thompson_Central_Park_New_York-New_York_City_New_York.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.goodhousekeeping.com%2Flife%2Ftravel%2Fg44504955%2Fthings-to-do-in-nyc%2F">Thompson Central Park New York</a> on your radar when you're booking your trip. </p>

1) Central Park

Location: Manhattan

You could visit Central Park every day on your NYC vacay, and still not see it all. The 843-acre oasis spans over 50 blocks. It's surrounded by skyscrapers and boasts 21 playgrounds, a zoo and a Swedish Cottage with Marionette shows. Wollman Rink is typically the go-to for ice skating, but for the summer, it has been transformed into a giant pickleball installation with 14 courts. Since it's easier to come and go to the park as you please if you stay in a nearby hotel, put The Quin, a Hilton Club and Thompson Central Park New York on your radar when you're booking your trip.

<p><strong>Location: </strong>Astoria, Queens </p><p>Another staff favorite, the Jim Henson exhibit at the <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1553576&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tripadvisor.com%2FAttraction_Review-g29837-d136165-Reviews-Museum_of_the_Moving_Image-Astoria_Queens_New_York.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.goodhousekeeping.com%2Flife%2Ftravel%2Fg44504955%2Fthings-to-do-in-nyc%2F">Museum of the Moving Image</a> appeals to kids of all ages. "Younger kids can decorate a Muppet body with eyes and hair," says a Good Housekeeping editor. Meanwhile, older kids will enjoy the interactive stations where they can try their hand at ADR, foley effects, music cues or stop-motion animation. You might even luck out and go on a day when there's a kid-friendly screening. </p>

2) Museum of the Moving Image

Location: Astoria, Queens

Another staff favorite, the Jim Henson exhibit at the Museum of the Moving Image appeals to kids of all ages. "Younger kids can decorate a Muppet body with eyes and hair," says a Good Housekeeping editor. Meanwhile, older kids will enjoy the interactive stations where they can try their hand at ADR, foley effects, music cues or stop-motion animation. You might even luck out and go on a day when there's a kid-friendly screening.

<p><strong>Location:</strong> Midtown Manhattan </p><p>Kids will love taking their dolls out to dinner at <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1553576&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tripadvisor.com%2FAttraction_Review-g60763-d295916-Reviews-American_Girl_Place_New_York-New_York_City_New_York.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.goodhousekeeping.com%2Flife%2Ftravel%2Fg44504955%2Fthings-to-do-in-nyc%2F">American Girl Place New York</a>, which provides doll-size booster seats that attach to the table and a mini place setting so your child's doll can eat with the family. Dolls dine for free while a fun four-course menu is $27 per person — downright inexpensive by NYC standards. The experience is best for kids ages 3-12. </p>

3) American Girl Place

Location: Midtown Manhattan

Kids will love taking their dolls out to dinner at American Girl Place New York , which provides doll-size booster seats that attach to the table and a mini place setting so your child's doll can eat with the family. Dolls dine for free while a fun four-course menu is $27 per person — downright inexpensive by NYC standards. The experience is best for kids ages 3-12.

<p><strong>Location: </strong>Times Square </p><p>Broadway shows live up to the hype, so add one (or more!) to your list of must-dos if you have kids in elementary school or older. (While younger kids can attend, they may not be able to sit still for two-plus hours.) <em><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1553576&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ticketmaster.com%2Fwicked-tickets%2Fartist%2F965961%3Flanding%3Dc%26awtrc%3Dtrue%26c%3DSEM_TMTHEATER_ggl_18590119174_142002242083_wicked%2Bticketmaster%26GCID%3D0%26gclid%3DCjwKCAjw_aemBhBLEiwAT98FMk3XNhjk1zk4gtQUudM_RhjnuZE40Bw8Gvhk2szm7T0EQIuvWRKnpRoCl6IQAvD_BwE%26gclsrc%3Daw.ds&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.goodhousekeeping.com%2Flife%2Ftravel%2Fg44504955%2Fthings-to-do-in-nyc%2F">Wicked</a></em> and <em><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1553576&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ticketmaster.com%2Fwicked-tickets%2Fartist%2F965961%3Flanding%3Dc%26awtrc%3Dtrue%26c%3DSEM_TMTHEATER_ggl_18590119174_142002242083_wicked%2Bticketmaster%26GCID%3D0%26gclid%3DCjwKCAjw_aemBhBLEiwAT98FMk3XNhjk1zk4gtQUudM_RhjnuZE40Bw8Gvhk2szm7T0EQIuvWRKnpRoCl6IQAvD_BwE%26gclsrc%3Daw.ds&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.goodhousekeeping.com%2Flife%2Ftravel%2Fg44504955%2Fthings-to-do-in-nyc%2F">Hamilton</a></em> are wonderful all-around picks that please multiple generations. For something more edgy with teens and college-age kids, a Good Housekeeping team member highly recommends <em><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1553576&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ticketmaster.com%2Fsweeney-todd-tickets%2Fartist%2F2921987%3Flanding%3Dc%26awtrc%3Dtrue%26c%3DSEM_TMTHEATER_ggl_19782733329_147888079898_sweeney%2Btodd%2Bticketmaster%26GCID%3D0%26gclid%3DCjwKCAjw_aemBhBLEiwAT98FMpDxm5BOkhxgWvR-pZGfhQ-oiIcTG5Ch6KTsre8R4A3ffH1DWtmqDhoCR5AQAvD_BwE%26gclsrc%3Daw.ds&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.goodhousekeeping.com%2Flife%2Ftravel%2Fg44504955%2Fthings-to-do-in-nyc%2F">Sweeney Todd</a></em>. "Bring your Playbill to the stage door after most Broadway shows and some of the cast will autograph it," she suggests. </p>

4) Broadway Shows

Location: Times Square

Broadway shows live up to the hype, so add one (or more!) to your list of must-dos if you have kids in elementary school or older. (While younger kids can attend, they may not be able to sit still for two-plus hours.) Wicked and Hamilton are wonderful all-around picks that please multiple generations. For something more edgy with teens and college-age kids, a Good Housekeeping team member highly recommends Sweeney Todd . "Bring your Playbill to the stage door after most Broadway shows and some of the cast will autograph it," she suggests.

<p><strong>Location:</strong> Times Square </p><p>Book tickets to this fun, new attraction for before or after your Broadway performance. The <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1553576&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tripadvisor.com%2FAttractionProductReview-g60763-d25074776-Museum_of_Broadway-New_York_City_New_York.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.goodhousekeeping.com%2Flife%2Ftravel%2Fg44504955%2Fthings-to-do-in-nyc%2F">Museum of Broadway</a> is packed with famous costumes, props and other memorabilia from shows, including a retrospective of Broadway's longest-running show, <em>Chicago</em>. If you want to continue with the Broadway theme, have lunch or dinner at Gayle's Broadway Rose. The wait staff sings show tunes and the food is pretty good too!</p>

5) Museum of Broadway

Book tickets to this fun, new attraction for before or after your Broadway performance. The Museum of Broadway is packed with famous costumes, props and other memorabilia from shows, including a retrospective of Broadway's longest-running show, Chicago . If you want to continue with the Broadway theme, have lunch or dinner at Gayle's Broadway Rose. The wait staff sings show tunes and the food is pretty good too!

<p><strong>Location:</strong> Midtown Manhattan</p><p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1553576&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tripadvisor.com%2FAttraction_Review-g60763-d136347-Reviews-Bryant_Park-New_York_City_New_York.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.goodhousekeeping.com%2Flife%2Ftravel%2Fg44504955%2Fthings-to-do-in-nyc%2F">Bryant Park</a> sits right outside the main branch of the New York Public Library, and its famous carousel only costs $4 to ride while the one in Central Park will set you back $10, noted one Good Housekeeping staff member. Depending on when you visit, you might run into jugglers or other entertainers in the park. From October to December, Bryant Park hosts a holiday market packed with fun food and handmade gifts for everyone on your list. And don't forget to pop into the library to see its amazing architecture. Tours are free, but space is limited, so be sure to <a href="https://www.nypl.org/events/tours/schwarzman">register online</a>.</p>

6) Bryant Park

Bryant Park sits right outside the main branch of the New York Public Library, and its famous carousel only costs $4 to ride while the one in Central Park will set you back $10, noted one Good Housekeeping staff member. Depending on when you visit, you might run into jugglers or other entertainers in the park. From October to December, Bryant Park hosts a holiday market packed with fun food and handmade gifts for everyone on your list. And don't forget to pop into the library to see its amazing architecture. Tours are free, but space is limited, so be sure to register online .

<p><strong>Location: </strong>A five-minute ferry ride away from the bottom of Manhattan</p><p>"Governors Island is the best picnic spot ever!" raved a Good Housekeeping staffer who has a 7-year-old. You can also rent bikes, climb a huge man-made hill, swing in a hammock grove or play on gigantic slides. In the winter, <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1553576&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tripadvisor.com%2FAttraction_Review-g60763-d12903277-Reviews-Governors_Island-New_York_City_New_York.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.goodhousekeeping.com%2Flife%2Ftravel%2Fg44504955%2Fthings-to-do-in-nyc%2F">Governors Island</a> also offers ice skating. </p>

7) Governors Island

Location: A five-minute ferry ride away from the bottom of Manhattan

"Governors Island is the best picnic spot ever!" raved a Good Housekeeping staffer who has a 7-year-old. You can also rent bikes, climb a huge man-made hill, swing in a hammock grove or play on gigantic slides. In the winter, Governors Island also offers ice skating.

<p><strong>Location: </strong>Liberty Island </p><p>You have a handful of options for seeing <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1553576&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tripadvisor.com%2FAttractionProductReview-g60763-d11451132-Statue_of_Liberty_Ellis_Island_Tour_All_Options-New_York_City_New_York.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.goodhousekeeping.com%2Flife%2Ftravel%2Fg44504955%2Fthings-to-do-in-nyc%2F">Lady Liberty</a> on your trip. If you're in lower Manhattan, hop on the free 24-hour Staten Island Ferry (you don't even need a ticket) and on the way to Staten Island, you'll pass right by the statue. You can turn right around and come back if you want — expect the total trip to be 60 to 90 minutes. Or you could combine a boat ride to see the statue with dinner and book a memorable trip with <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1553576&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cityexperiences.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.goodhousekeeping.com%2Flife%2Ftravel%2Fg44504955%2Fthings-to-do-in-nyc%2F">City Experiences</a>. "It's really magical at sunset," said one of our testers. If you want to climb up the Statue, take a ferry from Battery Park in Lower Manhattan to Liberty Island. While you don't need an advance ticket to go inside the statue, you will need one to access the crown. Keep in mind that kids need to be at least 42 inches tall to visit the crown. </p>

8) Statue of Liberty

Location: Liberty Island

You have a handful of options for seeing Lady Liberty on your trip. If you're in lower Manhattan, hop on the free 24-hour Staten Island Ferry (you don't even need a ticket) and on the way to Staten Island, you'll pass right by the statue. You can turn right around and come back if you want — expect the total trip to be 60 to 90 minutes. Or you could combine a boat ride to see the statue with dinner and book a memorable trip with City Experiences . "It's really magical at sunset," said one of our testers. If you want to climb up the Statue, take a ferry from Battery Park in Lower Manhattan to Liberty Island. While you don't need an advance ticket to go inside the statue, you will need one to access the crown. Keep in mind that kids need to be at least 42 inches tall to visit the crown.

<p><strong>Location: </strong>Midtown Manhatten </p><p>A 25-foot waterfall in the middle of NYC? No way! Yes, it's real! "Almost always shady and cool, the park's cafe is a perfect place to grab a bite with the kids," says Beckman. You'll find this hidden gem at 51st Street between 2nd and 3rd Avenues. </p>

9) Greenacre Park

Location: Midtown Manhatten

A 25-foot waterfall in the middle of NYC? No way! Yes, it's real! "Almost always shady and cool, the park's cafe is a perfect place to grab a bite with the kids," says Beckman. You'll find this hidden gem at 51st Street between 2nd and 3rd Avenues.

<p><strong>Location: </strong>Flatiron District </p><p>Get a taste of the Wizarding World right in NYC! <a href="https://www.harrypotterstore.com">The Harry Potter store </a>sells butterbeer, themed treats (chocolate frogs, here you come!) and tons of magical merch in a new-ish store near Madison Square Park. "We got our butter beer to go and drank it in the park," says an editor. </p><p>Nearby, you may also want to check out <a href="https://www.eataly.com/us_en/stores/nyc-flatiron">Eataly</a>, an Italian marketplace with pizza, homemade pasta and gelato. If you're visiting on a weekend, stop by <a href="https://www.chelseaflea.com">Chelsea Flea</a> to check out the vintage clothes. </p>

10) Harry Potter New York

Location: Flatiron District

Get a taste of the Wizarding World right in NYC! The Harry Potter store sells butterbeer, themed treats (chocolate frogs, here you come!) and tons of magical merch in a new-ish store near Madison Square Park. "We got our butter beer to go and drank it in the park," says an editor.

Nearby, you may also want to check out Eataly , an Italian marketplace with pizza, homemade pasta and gelato. If you're visiting on a weekend, stop by Chelsea Flea to check out the vintage clothes.

<p><strong>Location: </strong>The Bronx (Yankees) or Queens (Mets)</p><p>Take the kids out to the ballgame. At <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1553576&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tripadvisor.com%2FAttraction_Review-g47729-d1519998-Reviews-Citi_Field-Flushing_Queens_New_York.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.goodhousekeeping.com%2Flife%2Ftravel%2Fg44504955%2Fthings-to-do-in-nyc%2F">Citi Field,</a> home of the New York Mets, kids can practice taking a swing at a mini baseball diamond behind the scoreboard in center field. <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1553576&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tripadvisor.com%2FAttraction_Review-g47369-d116397-Reviews-Yankee_Stadium-Bronx_New_York.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.goodhousekeeping.com%2Flife%2Ftravel%2Fg44504955%2Fthings-to-do-in-nyc%2F">Yankee Stadium</a> also offers a play area for mini fans. Its Kids Clubhouse — filled with baseball-themed climbing structures — is located on the 300 level in centerfield. At both ballparks, you'll find some incredible food offerings like towering Grand Slam milkshakes at Yankee Stadium and fried chicken sandwiches that use glazed donuts as the bun at Citi Field.</p>

11) Major League Baseball Game

Location: The Bronx (Yankees) or Queens (Mets)

Take the kids out to the ballgame. At Citi Field, home of the New York Mets, kids can practice taking a swing at a mini baseball diamond behind the scoreboard in center field. Yankee Stadium also offers a play area for mini fans. Its Kids Clubhouse — filled with baseball-themed climbing structures — is located on the 300 level in centerfield. At both ballparks, you'll find some incredible food offerings like towering Grand Slam milkshakes at Yankee Stadium and fried chicken sandwiches that use glazed donuts as the bun at Citi Field.

<p><strong>Location:</strong> Lower Manhattan </p><p>If you're walking around the Wall Street area with the kids (perhaps to see the 9/11 Memorial Museum) and need to find a quiet spot, head over to the Elevated Acre on 55 Water Street. Nestled on the terrace of a giant office building, it features a large lawn, amphitheater seating, a few winding tree-lined paths and spectacular views of the East River, Brooklyn and the Brooklyn Bridge. "You can easily miss it," warns Beckman. "There is a small sign but it’s quite inconspicuous, and the escalators don’t look like they are for public usage. Look for the outdoor escalators set back from the sidewalk." </p>

12) The Elevated Acre

Location: Lower Manhattan

If you're walking around the Wall Street area with the kids (perhaps to see the 9/11 Memorial Museum) and need to find a quiet spot, head over to the Elevated Acre on 55 Water Street. Nestled on the terrace of a giant office building, it features a large lawn, amphitheater seating, a few winding tree-lined paths and spectacular views of the East River, Brooklyn and the Brooklyn Bridge. "You can easily miss it," warns Beckman. "There is a small sign but it’s quite inconspicuous, and the escalators don’t look like they are for public usage. Look for the outdoor escalators set back from the sidewalk."

<p><strong>Location:</strong> Upper West Side of Manhattan </p><p>Dinosaur fans may never want to leave this incredible museum, which recently won a <a href="https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/life/travel/a42010445/family-travel-awards-2023/">2023 Good Housekeeping Family Travel Award</a>. The dino exhibit, which takes up an entire hall on the fourth floor, features 100 specimens and is mesmerizing. The <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1553576&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tripadvisor.com%2FAttraction_Review-g60763-d210108-Reviews-American_Museum_of_Natural_History-New_York_City_New_York.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.goodhousekeeping.com%2Flife%2Ftravel%2Fg44504955%2Fthings-to-do-in-nyc%2F">American Museum of Natural History </a>still requires timed-entry reservations to visit; book the earliest slot for the best chance at seeing the dinos without a lot of crowds. </p>

13) American Museum of Natural History

Location: Upper West Side of Manhattan

Dinosaur fans may never want to leave this incredible museum, which recently won a 2023 Good Housekeeping Family Travel Award . The dino exhibit, which takes up an entire hall on the fourth floor, features 100 specimens and is mesmerizing. The American Museum of Natural History still requires timed-entry reservations to visit; book the earliest slot for the best chance at seeing the dinos without a lot of crowds.

<p><strong>Location: </strong>Hell's Kitchen neighborhood of Manhattan </p><p>A sculpture actually doubles as a jungle gym at<a href="http://www.tomotterness.net/artworks/silver-towers-playground"> Todd Otterness Silver Towers Playground</a>. Shaped like a seated human, it has slides for legs, seats for hands and arms that extend as climbing apparatuses. "It's a huge hit with kids as well as their art-loving parents," says Beckman. You'll find it on 41st Street between 11th and 12th Avenues; it's a great place to stop if you're walking back from the <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1553576&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tripadvisor.com%2FAttractionProductReview-g60763-d11995034-Intrepid_Sea_Air_and_Space_Museum_Admission_Ticket-New_York_City_New_York.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.goodhousekeeping.com%2Flife%2Ftravel%2Fg44504955%2Fthings-to-do-in-nyc%2F">Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum</a> to Times Square. </p>

14) Todd Otterness Silver Towers Playground

Location: Hell's Kitchen neighborhood of Manhattan

A sculpture actually doubles as a jungle gym at Todd Otterness Silver Towers Playground . Shaped like a seated human, it has slides for legs, seats for hands and arms that extend as climbing apparatuses. "It's a huge hit with kids as well as their art-loving parents," says Beckman. You'll find it on 41st Street between 11th and 12th Avenues; it's a great place to stop if you're walking back from the Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum to Times Square.

<p><strong>Location:</strong> West Village </p><p>The Swifties in your family will want to walk by 23 Cornelia Street, a townhouse where the pop superstar lived in 2016, three years before releasing the song "Cornelia Street." Show your teen you're in the know by also suggesting you see Taylor Swift: Storyteller, an exhibit at the <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=74968X1553576&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.tripadvisor.com%2FAttraction_Review-g60763-d524927-Reviews-Museum_of_Arts_and_Design-New_York_City_New_York.html&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.goodhousekeeping.com%2Flife%2Ftravel%2Fg44504955%2Fthings-to-do-in-nyc%2F">Museum of Arts and Design</a>, running through September 4. Just hop on the 1 train from Christopher Street Station and you'll be there in about 15 minutes. </p>

15) Cornelia Street

Location: West Village

The Swifties in your family will want to walk by 23 Cornelia Street, a townhouse where the pop superstar lived in 2016, three years before releasing the song "Cornelia Street." Show your teen you're in the know by also suggesting you see Taylor Swift: Storyteller, an exhibit at the Museum of Arts and Design , running through September 4. Just hop on the 1 train from Christopher Street Station and you'll be there in about 15 minutes.

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President Joe Biden plans Syracuse trip to announce historic Micron deal

Updated: Apr. 24, 2024, 10:25 a.m. |
Published: Apr. 18, 2024, 10:02 a.m.

President Joe Biden speaks at Onondaga Community College Thursday, October 27, 2022 to celebrate Micron's agreement to build a complex of computer chip plants in Syracuse's suburbs N. Scott Trimble | [email protected]

Mark Weiner | [email protected]

Washington – President Joe Biden plans to visit Syracuse next week to celebrate the deal to provide Micron Technology with $6.1 billion in federal aid for a massive complex of computer chip plants in Clay.

Biden’s White House is scouting locations for a possible event April 25 in Syracuse, according to two sources briefed on the early plans.

The sources stressed Biden’s visit is in the planning stages and could change depending on developments in the U.S. or overseas.

A White House spokeswoman said Thursday she could not confirm that Biden plans to travel to Syracuse next week.

U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer and a senior Biden administration official said Wednesday that federal officials reached a preliminary agreement with Micron to provide the funding from the CHIPS and Science Act.

Schumer, D-N.Y., said the $6.1 billion grant would be one of the largest single direct federal investments in New York history.

The administration official told syracuse.com | The Post-Standard that a formal announcement with more details about the subsidy package would follow next week.

Biden visited Syracuse in October 2022 shortly after Micron selected Central New York as the site of a planned $100 billion mega-complex of four computer chip plants .

Micron said it planned to build out the complex over the next 20 years. When fully built, the company said it would directly employ 9,000 people and create about 40,000 spinoff jobs at suppliers and other companies.

In his 2022 visit, Biden joined Micron CEO Sanjay Mehrotra , Gov. Kathy Hochul, Schumer and U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand at Onondaga Community College to celebrate the agreement.

Biden, a 1968 graduate of Syracuse University’s law school, talked about his love for Syracuse and what the Micron project might mean for the region’s future.

“This is transformational,” Biden said of Micron’s plans. “This is a big day for Central New York but it’s also a big day for the United States.”

“Who, exactly, is this intended to help, and how does this benefit children,” wonders Rafael Manguel, an expert on urban crime at the Manhattan Institute. “The idea that substance abuse and criminality don’t constitute significant enough risk factors . . . ignores the clear link between exposure to such parental behavior and undesirable life outcomes.”

Across ACS, the agency seems to be adopting a “hear no evil” approach to child welfare.

Last month, for instance, caseworkers were told they need to get parents’ permission before accessing school records.

Chronic absence from school is often a sign that there is something going wrong in a home.

Such policy shifts, suggest Smith, adhere to Commissioner Jess Dannhauser decision to retrain agency reporters to do less actual reporting.

“We have to fundamentally reorient our system to be about a much narrower set of young people who are really in danger,” Dannhauser said at a hearing in Albany. Smith finds this approach “lunatic.” “Our reporters as a group of people depend on ACS to be the tough guy.”

Dannhauser says his department is doing all it can to address the needs of New York City’s kids.

“We take our mission to keep children safe and support families very seriously,” he said in response to allegations raised by the Post. “We are opening new pathways to access preventive support without a call to the State Central Register when someone sees a family in need and does not suspect the children are being maltreated. This helps families get help right away without the stressors of an investigation. It also helps our CPS teams focus more on instances when … someone believes a child may be in danger.”

But Smith says this is not enough; there has also been a change in attitude among ACS supervisors.

Smith notes that a home with “deplorable conditions” is “taken less seriously” than it previously was.

He often hears questions like “Well, what really is a messy home?”

But these homes are far beyond unclean, says John, noting the story of the three-year-old boy suggests.

In addition to the vermin, he says, “The children are eating off the floor. It’s a horror show.”

Harvard Law School's Jim Greiner is leading a pilot program to provide mothers with histories of children services investigations with $500 per month to determine the role of poverty in child neglect.

Such horrors these days such are increasingly attributed to poverty — rather than mental illness or substance abuse — with the idea that giving parents more financial assistance is going to fix the problem.

In an interview with Time Magazine, Dorothy Roberts, a law professor at the University of Pennsylvania explained that the child welfare “system has been used historically and today to blame parents for hardships to their children that are caused by poverty and other kinds of structural inequities.”

Such thinking is behind new strategies, such as a pilot program launched this month from Harvard Law School’s Access to Justice Lab.

The scheme provides $500 a month to mothers in Washington, DC accused of neglect to see if it can help them to avoid having their kids removed from their homes .

The goal, says lab director Jim Greiner, is to “look at what happens when you take steps to alleviate poverty.”

Dorothy Roberts, a law professor at the University, of Pennsylvania explained that the child welfare “system has been used historically and today to blame parents for hardships to their children that are caused by poverty."

But Smith disagrees. “The reason we’re coming is because of neglect, maltreatment, abuse . . . Not poverty,” he says. “This is the Kool-Aid that I’m talking about.”

Despite the fact that workers are under-investigating — if not told to leave children in dangerous environments — advocates claim that ACS is unnecessarily intruding in the lives of families.

Earlier this year, several parents and advocacy organizations filed a class-action lawsuit against ACS for what a press release refers to as the “Widespread Practice of Searching Homes and Children’s Bodies Without Court Approval or Emergency Circumstances Traumatizes Families and Children.”

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Smith does not believe that his colleagues are “strip searching” children as the lawsuit alleges.

Indeed, one reason that he wanted to speak out is that parents can claim whatever they want to the media — while ACS employees are barred from speaking publicly about specific allegations.

The lawsuit is demanding that ACS now secure a search warrant before entering a house.

Not doing so, they argue, is unconstitutional.

The shift in child welfare in recent years has been toward working with parents as opposed to treating them like criminal suspects — even if they actually are suspected of wrongdoing.

Manhattan Institute fellow Rafael Mangual, says “the idea that substance abuse and criminality don’t constitute significant enough risk factors" is inherently dangerous for kids.

ACS’s strategy has been to divert more and more cases into the CARES program (Collaborative Assessment, Response, Engagement & Support), which “encourage[s] families to develop their own solutions to their challenges, and identify supportive resources to help care for and protect their children” rather than launch official investigations.

Dannhauser proudly announced earlier this year that the agency had doubled the percentage of its cases that were CARES and plans to increase it further.

But once you start telling parents they don’t have to let ACS workers into their homes, the relationship becomes adversarial and an official investigation has to be launched in order to get a warrant.

“You can’t have it both ways,” Smith explains.

The past few years have seen Smith become increasingly convinced that the people making policy at ACS don’t have any understanding of what front-line workers are actually seeing.

Much of this misunderstanding, Smith contends, stems from the “quasi-academic” idea that the child welfare system is structurally racist.

Smith, who’s not African-American, recognizes that black families are over-represented in the system compared to their percentage of the population.

Despite the focus on race and class, ACS must still prioritize the safety and health of children before political posturing.

But he wonders, “if a black woman at school calls ACS on a black mother and a black CPS worker shows up and is rude to her. I have a hard time pinpointing where the racism is.”

A similar claim has been made about policing, where it is often black families who want more law enforcement presence in their neighborhoods.

But white progressives can’t abide this.

Manguel explains that “like the movement to depolice and decarcerate, efforts to dismantle and defang the child welfare system is one built on an unfortunate willingness to subordinate the safety of our most vulnerable populations to the passions of activists.”

Smith tells me it’s time to use some common sense in our child welfare decisions.

“Let’s look at this not through some toxic academic lens. Let’s look at this through the lens of the child.”

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According to an unnamed ACS worker, the department is no longer viewing issues such as parental drug use as reason enough to remove children from their homes.

Philadelphia 76ers at New York Knicks NBA Playoffs FREE live stream: Time, channel

Updated: Apr. 20, 2024, 12:39 p.m. |
Published: Apr. 20, 2024, 12:38 p.m.

New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson, left, drives past Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid during a game, Friday, Jan. 5, 2024, in Philadelphia. AP Photo/Matt Slocum

Dustin Hockensmith | [email protected]

The Philadelphia 76ers make the short trip north to New York City on Saturday for the first in a best-of-seven NBA Playoffs series against the New York Knicks. Game 1 of the series is scheduled to start at 6 p.m. ET with TV coverage on ESPN and streaming on-demand .

Watch: Live streams of the 76ers-Knicks game are available with offers from FuboTV (free trial) , DirecTV Stream (free trial) and SlingTV (free trial) .

The 76ers go into the first round of the Eastern Conference Playoffs as one of the hottest teams in the NBA and a group that is far more dangerous than its No. 7 seed might suggest. Philadelphia struggled for long stretches with star center Joel Embiid sidelined with a knee injury, but the Sixers are finding their top form in time for the playoffs, even with Embiid playing at less than 100 percent health. Philadelphia defeated the Miami Heat, 105-104, in the Play-In Tournament to mark the team’s eighth straight win and secure the No. 7 seed in the East.

Watch live streams of the NBA on ESPN: FuboTV (free trial) | DirecTV Stream (free trial) | Sling (low intro rate)

The Knicks know a thing or two about injured stars and are playing this postseason without forward Julius Randle, who underwent shoulder surgery earlier this month. New York had its struggles adjusting to life without Randle, but the scoring and persistence of guard Jalen Brunson helped the team win its final five games and improve its playoff positioning. Brunson averaged 28.7 points per game for the season, but went for 40-plus points three times over the final five games and averaged 35.9 points in April.

The 76ers and Knicks are set for a 7 p.m. ET start on ESPN. Live streams are available from FuboTV (free trial) , DirecTV Stream (free trial) and SlingTV (free trial) .

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Laufey - Bewitched: The Goddess Tour 2024 (New York) | Radio City Music Hall

Get ready to be enchanted at Laufey - Bewitched: The Goddess Tour, a mesmerizing concert taking place at the iconic Radio City Music Hall on May 4th, 2024. Located at 1260 6th Avenue, New York, NY, 10020, this unforgettable event promises to showcase the ethereal talents of Laufey in a night filled with magical melodies and captivating performances. From soulful ballads to powerful anthems, Laufey will take the stage and transport the audience to a realm of musical bliss. The tickets for Laufey - Bewitched: The Goddess Tour will be available for purchase starting from December 8th, 2023, at 15:00, until May 5th, 2024, at 01:00. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the enchantment of Laufey live in concert. Mark your calendars and secure your tickets for a night that will leave you spellbound.

Provided by Samuli | Published Apr 25, 2024

Are you interested in Laufey - Bewitched: The Goddess Tour 2024 (New York)?

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Yankees’ Aaron Judge gets reprieve, makes A’s pay to ignite ‘warm and fuzzy’ win

Updated: Apr. 24, 2024, 10:40 p.m. |
Published: Apr. 24, 2024, 9:45 p.m.

Aaron Judge hit a first-inning homer to accounte for the Yankees' first two runs in Wednesday night's win over Oakland. AP

Randy Miller | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

NEW YORK — One first-inning pitch that didn’t count got the Yankees off and running Wednesday night at Yankee Stadium.

With Juan Soto on first base and one out, Aaron Judge didn’t swing at a 1-2 fastball from Athletics starter Joe Boyle that caught the outside corner. Judge knew he was out and started walking back to the Yankees dugout as he was being rung up by plate umpire Nick Mahrley.

And then Judge stopped a few steps from home plate.

Boyle didn’t come to a complete stop with his hands on his stretch before winding up and was called for a balk by third-base umpire John Tumpane.

Instead of two outs and a runner on first, Judge was still up with a runner on second.

Unfazed, Boyle figured he’d come back with the same pitch in the same spot, a low heater on the outside corner.

Judge didn’t pass on this one and blasted an opposite-field homer into the right-field seats for a 2-0 Yankees lead.

That was the start of a fun night for the Yankees, who prevailed 7-3.

Asked about his second life in the first inning, Judge said, “Well, it was a quick pitch, so I didn’t know what was going on. I saw Soto waving waving, go back (in the box), go back.”

Anthony Rizzo homered for the second night in a row and third time this season and Soto hit a bomb to center.

RESTORING THE GLORY

Anthony Volpe turned a line hit to right that bounced past Lawrence Butler for the Yankees’ first triple of the season.

Gleyber Torres finally had something go his way on his seventh-inning infield single to short and Austin Wells’ bunt single to third base in the fourth ended an 0-for-23 that began on his next-to-last at-bat April 6.

This was the first time Judge and Soto homered in the same game.

Boone joked that both of them going deep gave him “a warm and fuzzy feeling.”

Judge laughed hearing that and said, “That’s a great line.”

He added, “After every win I feel warm and fuzzy, so we got another win.”

Yankees starter Clarke Schmidt was having a good night, too, until the sixth inning when a hit batter and double led to Brett Rooker belting a three-run homer that made it a 5-3 game.

Suddenly in a bit of a pickle, the Yankees quickly regain control of the game. Luke Weaver came on to get the final two outs in the sixth, then Soto’s 416-foot homer with one out in the bottom of the inning made it 6-3 and Alex Verdugo contributed a seventh-inning sac fly for the seventh run.

The win made it two in a row for the Yankees, who can win this four-game series on Thursday night to hit the road for a tough two-city trip with momentum. First, the Yankees play the NL Central-leading Brewers this weekend, then they had to Baltimore for four against the Orioles.

The Yankees lead the AL East and Baltimore is second, a half-game back.

-- The Yankees are waiting on fresh MRI results on DJ LeMahieu, who left his first rehab game on Tuesday night after one inning with more right foot discomfort. Playing third base for Somerset at Reading, LeMahieu struck out to lead off the game and departed after playing the first in the bottom of the first. He’s been sidelined since March 16 when he suffered a non-displaced fracture in his foot on a foul ball during a spring training game in Tampa.

-- Judge’s homer was the 261st of his career and passed Derek Jeter for ninth place on Yankees all-time list. Jorge Posada is eighth with 275.

-- A’s pitcher Alex Wood, who wasn’t in the game, was ejected after the first inning for arguing the balk call on Boyle that quickly doomed him.

LOOKING AHEAD

Thursday: Athletics at Yankees, 7:05 p.m., YES & MLB Network. LHP Alex Wood (0-2, 7.89) vs. LHP Nestor Cortes (1-1, 3.41).

Friday: Yankees at Brewers, 8:10 p.m., EST, YES & MLB Network. RHP Luis Gil (1-1, 2.75) vs. TBA.

Saturday: Yankees at Brewers, 7:10 p.m., EST, YES & MLB Network. LHP Carlos Rodon (1-1, 2.70) vs. TBA.

Sunday: Yankees at Brewers, 2:10 p.m., EST, YES. RHP Marcus Stroman (2-1, 2.93) vs. TBA.

Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting us with a subscription.

Randy Miller may be reached at [email protected] .

Normandy High School students enjoy tuneful trip to New York City: Sun Postings

Updated: Apr. 22, 2024, 1:23 p.m. |
Published: Apr. 22, 2024, 7:40 a.m.

Normandy High School choir and Spanish students recently visited New York City. Courtesy of Parma City Schools

John Benson, special to cleveland.com

PARMA, Ohio -- Over the Parma City School District’s spring break, the Normandy High School choir and Spanish students participated in a joint trip to New York City.

Students performed for onlookers at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine and engaged in impromptu performances in Central Park.

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Shopping in SoHo NYC: The 25 Best Stores Right Now

Visit a Broadway Show

Attend a Parade or Special Event

Enjoying the Gastro Scene (in the Evening)

The 24 Most Beautiful Bars in NYC Right Now

The 12 Best Food Markets in NYC

The 23 Best Waterfront Restaurants & Bars in New York Right Now

The Best Burger in New York City

The 50 Absolute Best Things to Do in New York (90+ pages)

Walking through DUMBO and Soho

Things to Do in DUMBO

The 15 Best Things to Do in SoHo NYC – The Complete Guide 2024

Get personal tips & tricks, specifically tailored to your trip!

New York on a Budget: The 19 Best Money-Saving Tips for 2024

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

Key Things to Know: Top things to do in NYC for a day

One day in New York itinerary

Statue of Liberty

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

Lunch options: where to eat

Empire State Building

Times Square

Rockefeller Center

Central Park

Interactive map for your one day in New York City itinerary

Ways to modify this itinerary

Short half-day itinerary for NYC

New York 1-day tours

Where to stay in New York City

How to get around New York City

Final thoughts on one day in New York

More articles about New York

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New York , North America , Travel , USA

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

What to Know about NYC Before You Go

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

What apps should I use in New York City?

What airport should I fly into?

Should I bring my car to New York City?

Are there neighborhoods I should visit outside of Manhattan?

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

What’s the weather like in New York City?

When should I plan a trip to New York City?

What should I pack?

What should I eat in NYC?

Book a Photoshoot

Are there tourist attractions I should avoid?

How expensive is New York City?

Are New Yorkers mean?

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

Plan the Best 3 Days in New York City

Things to Do in Midtown

Things to Do Financial District + Lower East Side

Things to Do on the Upper East Side + Central Park

If You Have More Time In Your New York City Trip

Things to Do in The Village

Things to Do in Brooklyn

Things to Do in Chelsea + Hudson Yards