New York, USA-2-day-itinerary

Two-Day whirlwind Tour of New York City

This itinerary is packed with iconic NYC experiences. Feel free to customize it based on your interests!

Things to Know:

  • Subway: The fastest and most efficient way to get around the city. Purchase a MetroCard for unlimited rides.
  • Walking: Comfortable shoes are essential. Many attractions are within walking distance of each other.
  • Crowds: NYC is bustling, especially during peak tourist season. Be prepared for lines and crowds.

Transportation:

  • Subway: Purchase a 7-day unlimited MetroCard for $33 (as of 2023).
  • Taxis & Rideshares: Convenient but can be expensive.
  • Walking: The best way to experience the city’s energy and discover hidden gems.

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: The Jane Hotel, Freehand New York
  • Mid-Range: The Moxy NYC Times Square, Arlo NoMad
  • Luxury: The Peninsula New York, The St. Regis New York

Day 1: Midtown Marvels & Evening Glamour

  • Morning (9:00 AM): Start your day with a stroll through Central Park. Take in the Bethesda Fountain, Bow Bridge, and Strawberry Fields.

  • Brunch (11:00 AM): Enjoy a classic New York brunch at Sarabeth’s Central Park South or Tavern on the Green.

  • Afternoon (1:00 PM): Explore the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) for world-renowned modern and contemporary art.

  • Late Afternoon (3:30 PM): Ascend to the Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center for panoramic city views.

  • Dinner (6:00 PM): Indulge in a Broadway pre-theater dinner at Carmine’s for family-style Italian or The Lambs Club for elegant American cuisine.

  • Evening (8:00 PM): Experience the magic of Broadway! Book tickets in advance for popular shows like Hamilton, Wicked, or Lion King.

Day 2: Downtown Delights & Brooklyn Bridge Bliss

  • Morning (9:00 AM): Visit the poignant 9/11 Memorial & Museum. Allow ample time for reflection and learning about this historic event.

  • Brunch (11:30 AM): Grab a bagel and schmear at Ess-a-Bagel in Midtown or enjoy delicious dim sum in Chinatown.

  • Afternoon (1:00 PM): Take the Staten Island Ferry for breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty (free!).

  • Walk the Brooklyn Bridge: Stroll across this iconic bridge, enjoying stunning cityscape vistas.

  • Dinner (6:00 PM): Explore the diverse culinary scene in DUMBO, Brooklyn. Options abound from Grimaldi’s Pizzeria to Cecconi’s for upscale Italian.

  • Evening (8:00 PM): Catch live music at a jazz club in Greenwich Village or enjoy a rooftop bar with skyline views.

Tips:

  • Book accommodations and popular attractions (Broadway, museums) in advance.
  • Utilize the CityPASS for discounted entry to multiple attractions.
  • Pack comfortable shoes and layers as the weather can be unpredictable.
  • Be mindful of your surroundings and belongings.
  • Embrace the city’s diversity and explore different neighborhoods!

Other Things of Interest:

  • Shopping: Fifth Avenue, SoHo, Meatpacking District
  • Museums: Metropolitan Museum of Art, American Museum of Natural History, Guggenheim Museum
  • Parks: Bryant Park, Washington Square Park, High Line
  • Neighborhoods: Greenwich Village, Harlem, Williamsburg