New York City-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in the Big Apple

  • Morning: Arrive at one of NYC’s three major airports (JFK, LGA, or EWR) and take a taxi or public transportation to your hotel.
  • Afternoon: Check-in to your hotel and freshen up. Some recommended hotels include:
    • Budget: YOTEL New York (starting at $150/night)
    • Mid-range: Hyatt Centric Times Square (starting at $200/night)
    • Luxury: The Plaza Hotel (starting at $500/night)
  • Evening: Head to the iconic Times Square and take in the bright lights and bustling energy. Grab dinner at one of the many restaurants in the area, such as:
    • Carmine’s (Italian-American cuisine) ($20-$30 entree range)
    • Ellen’s Stardust Diner (retro-themed diner) ($10-$15 entree range)

Day 2: Iconic NYC Landmarks

  • Morning: Start the day at the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Take a ferry to Liberty Island to see the statue up close, and then head to Ellis Island to learn about the history of immigration in the United States.
  • Afternoon: Visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, a poignant tribute to the victims of the 2001 terrorist attacks.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of NYC’s many iconic restaurants, such as:
    • Carbone (Italian-American cuisine) ($20-$30 entree range)
    • Peter Luger Steak House (steakhouse) ($50-$70 entree range)

Day 3: Museums and Culture

  • Morning: Spend the morning at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, one of the world’s largest and most famous museums.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Guggenheim Museum, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, which features an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art.
  • Evening: Head to the High Line, a elevated park built on an old rail line. Enjoy dinner at one of the many restaurants in the Meatpacking District, such as:
    • The Spotted Pig (gastropub) ($20-$30 entree range)
    • L’Artusi (Italian cuisine) ($20-$30 entree range)

Day 4: Central Park and Upper East Side

  • Morning: Spend the morning in Central Park, a tranquil oasis in the middle of Manhattan. Take a stroll through the park, rent a bike, or enjoy a picnic lunch.
  • Afternoon: Visit the American Museum of Natural History, home to over 30 million specimens and artifacts.
  • Evening: Head to the Upper East Side for dinner at one of its many excellent restaurants, such as:
    • Le Bernardin (seafood) ($50-$70 entree range)
    • Eleven Madison Park (fine dining) ($200-$300 entree range)

Day 5: Brooklyn and DUMBO

  • Morning: Take the subway to Brooklyn and visit the trendy neighborhood of DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass). Explore the area’s many shops, galleries, and restaurants.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Brooklyn Museum, which features a diverse collection of art and artifacts from around the world.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of DUMBO’s many excellent restaurants, such as:
    • The River Cafe (seafood) ($30-$50 entree range)
    • Grimaldi’s Pizzeria (pizzeria) ($15-$25 entree range)

Day 6: Broadway and Theater

  • Morning: Spend the morning taking in a matinee performance on Broadway, such as:
    • The Lion King
    • Wicked
    • Hamilton
  • Afternoon: Visit the New York Public Library, a stunning Beaux-Arts building that is home to over 55 million items.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at one of NYC’s many excellent restaurants, such as:
    • Joe Allen (American cuisine) ($20-$30 entree range)
    • The NoMad (fine dining) ($50-$70 entree range)

Day 7: Last Day in the City

  • Morning: Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring a neighborhood you haven’t visited yet.
  • Afternoon: Head to the airport and depart from NYC, bringing back memories of your amazing trip.

Things to Know:

  • The subway is an efficient way to get around the city. Buy a MetroCard and swipe it on the turnstile to ride.
  • Be prepared for crowds and lines at popular attractions.
  • Tip your cab driver 15-20% and bellhop 1-2 dollars.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for directions or help from locals.

Tips:

  • Try to avoid eating in touristy areas, as the prices are often inflated.
  • Take advantage of happy hour deals at bars and restaurants.
  • Be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas.
  • Consider purchasing a New York CityPASS, which grants you discounted admission to many attractions.

Other Things of Interest:

  • The High Line’s elevated park built on an old rail line
  • The Top of the Rock Observation Deck for stunning views of the city
  • The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) for its impressive collection of modern and contemporary art
  • The Brooklyn Bridge for a scenic walk across the water
  • The Village Voice for its comprehensive guide to NYC’s arts and culture scene