New York City in different perspectives
To experience New York City, you can divide your exploration by neighborhood, focusing on major attractions in each area. A multi-day trip is ideal, allowing time to explore Manhattan and cross into Brooklyn for a different perspective.
3-Day first-timer itinerary
Day 1: Midtown Manhattan icons
Morning: Central Park. Begin with a guided walking tour or a relaxed stroll through the park's iconic sights. Don't miss the Bethesda Fountain and Terrace, Strawberry Fields, and the Bow Bridge.
Late morning: Museum Mile. Exit Central Park near the East Side and visit one of the world-class museums along Fifth Avenue. The Metropolitan Museum of Art is a classic choice, or for modern art lovers, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum has a "pay what you wish" option on Saturday evenings.
Afternoon: Rockefeller Center. Head to Rockefeller Center and ride the elevator to the Top of the Rock observation deck for 360-degree panoramic views of the city.
Evening: Times Square and Broadway. Experience the bright lights and energy of Times Square at night. Grab a slice of classic New York pizza before catching a world-famous Broadway show.
Day 2: Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn
Morning: Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Take the ferry from Battery Park to visit the Statue of Liberty and the Ellis Island Immigration Museum. For a free view, ride the Staten Island Ferry, which passes by the statue.
Midday: 9/11 Memorial & Museum. Reflect at the National 9/11 Memorial and Museum. Afterward, explore the nearby Oculus structure and Financial District.
Afternoon: Brooklyn Bridge and DUMBO. Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge for incredible views of the Manhattan skyline. Once in Brooklyn, explore the trendy DUMBO neighborhood (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass), which offers great photo opportunities and unique restaurants.
Day 3: High Line, Chelsea Market, and Greenwich Village
Morning: The High Line. Walk along the High Line, an elevated park built on a former railway. The urban green space offers a mix of art installations, gardens, and unique city views.
Midday: Chelsea Market. Exit the High Line and enter Chelsea Market, a food hall with various vendors selling gourmet snacks, seafood, and gifts.
Afternoon: Greenwich Village. Explore the charming streets of Greenwich Village. Take a guided tour to learn about the area's rich history and nightlife or find famous sights like the "Friends" apartment building.
Evening: Farewell Dinner. Enjoy a final dinner in one of NYC's diverse neighborhoods, from classic Italian in Little Italy to international flavors in a local food hall.
Budget-friendly itinerary
Free sights: Take advantage of free attractions like Central Park, walking the Brooklyn Bridge, relaxing in Bryant Park, and seeing the Times Square lights.
Free museums: Visit museums that offer free admission or pay-what-you-wish options on certain days or times. Examples include the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum (Saturday evenings) and the Brooklyn Children's Museum (Thursdays 2 p.m.–5 p.m.).
Affordable transport and food: Use the subway for travel. Save on food by enjoying iconic treats like pizza slices and bagels, exploring ethnic neighborhoods, and trying food trucks.
Romantic itinerary
Scenic cruise: Take a sunset or evening cruise from Pier 36 NYC for breathtaking views of the city skyline and Statue of Liberty. You can also enjoy a jazz cruise on a 1920s-style yacht with Classic Harbor Line.
Broadway show: See a theatrical performance like Moulin Rouge! The Musical for a classic New York romantic evening.
Hotel stay: Consider staying at a stylish hotel, such as the Paramount Hotel in Times Square.