New York-3-day-itinerary

3-Day New York City Itinerary

This itinerary focuses on iconic landmarks and classic NYC experiences. Feel free to customize it based on your interests!

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: The Jane Hotel, Freehand New York
  • Mid-Range: The Hoxton, Williamsburg, CitizenM Times Square
  • Luxury: The Peninsula, The Greenwich Hotel, The Bowery Hotel

Transportation:

  • Subway: Fastest and most efficient way to get around. Purchase a 7-day unlimited MetroCard.
  • Walking: Explore neighborhoods on foot!
  • Taxi/Ride-sharing: Convenient but can be expensive, especially during rush hour.

Things to Know:

  • NYC is bustling and loud. Be prepared for crowds, noise, and fast-paced energy.
  • Tipping is customary (15-20% for restaurants, bars, and taxis).
  • Purchase a CityPASS for discounted entry to major attractions.

Day 1: Midtown Marvels

Morning:

  • Breakfast: Grab a bagel and coffee at Ess-a-Bagel or Russ & Daughters.
  • Activity: Visit Times Square, walk through Central Park (consider renting bikes), and climb the Top of the Rock for breathtaking city views.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch: Enjoy a slice of pizza at Joe’s Pizza or Lombardi’s.
  • Activity: Explore the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) or the American Museum of Natural History.

Evening:

  • Dinner: Indulge in a Broadway show followed by dinner in the Theater District (Sardi’s, Becco).

Day 2: Downtown Discoveries & Brooklyn Charm

Morning:

  • Breakfast: Enjoy brunch at Clinton Street Baking Company or Russ & Daughters Cafe.
  • Activity: Take the Staten Island Ferry for free views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Explore the Financial District (Wall Street, Charging Bull) and the 9/11 Memorial & Museum.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch: Grab a sandwich at Katz’s Delicatessen or a hot dog from a street vendor.
  • Activity: Cross the Brooklyn Bridge for stunning cityscape views. Explore DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) with its art galleries, cafes, and waterfront park.

Evening:

  • Dinner: Enjoy dinner in Williamsburg at Roberta’s Pizza or The Four Horsemen. Catch a live music show at Music Hall of Williamsburg or Brooklyn Steel.

Day 3: Culture & Culinary Delights

Morning:

  • Breakfast: Indulge in pancakes at Clinton St. Baking Company or enjoy a classic diner breakfast at Veselka.
  • Activity: Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art for a journey through art history.

Afternoon:

  • Lunch: Have a picnic lunch in Central Park (grab sandwiches from Zabar’s).

Evening:

  • Dinner: Experience fine dining at Le Bernardin, The Spotted Pig, or Momofuku Ssäm Bar. Enjoy drinks and views at a rooftop bar like 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar.

Tips:

  • Download offline maps for navigation.
  • Purchase a MetroCard for unlimited subway rides.
  • Consider purchasing a CityPASS for discounted entry to major attractions.
  • Pack comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing a lot of walking!
  • Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure.

Enjoy your trip to the Big Apple!