2 days in New York itinerary
Highlights
- High Line & Chelsea Market
- Whitney Museum
- Greenwich Village & Washington Square Park
- Walk Brooklyn Bridge & DUMBO views
- Central Park & The Met
- Top of the Rock skyline
- Koreatown dinner or evening jazz
Itinerary
Day 1
Chelsea & Meatpacking to Greenwich Village, then across the Brooklyn Bridge to DUMBO for sunset views and dinner.
Morning walk on the High Line
Start the day with a relaxed stroll along the elevated High Line park while enjoying gardens, public art, and Hudson River views.
Local tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes — the path is long with steps.
- Head north-to-south if you plan to end near Chelsea Market.
- Best in morning for fewer crowds and softer light.
Breakfast at Chelsea Market
Grab a casual breakfast and coffee at Chelsea Market — lots of vendors and seats for people-watching.
Local tips:
- Try a local coffee vendor and save room for a small pastry.
- If you prefer a quieter seat, go early before vendors get busy.
- Restroom facilities are available inside the market.
Whitney Museum of American Art
Explore contemporary American art and rooftop views focused on the city and the High Line neighborhood.
Local tips:
- Buy timed-entry tickets in advance to skip the ticket line.
- Check the rooftop hours — great for quick skyline photos.
- Plan 1.5–2 hours for main galleries; more if you like modern art.
Lunch at Buvette (West Village)
A cozy French-style bistro good for a relaxed midday meal in the West Village.
Local tips:
- Buvette is small — there may be a wait at peak times; reservation helps if available.
- Share a few small plates to sample more.
- Enjoy a leisurely lunch; the neighborhood is great for a post-meal stroll.
Stroll Washington Square Park & Village streets
Wander through the Washington Square Park plaza and the surrounding Greenwich Village streets to soak in local character.
Local tips:
- Watch local street musicians and students near the arch.
- If you like bookstores, peek into nearby independent shops on the side streets.
- This area is very walkable — allow time to pop into shops or cafes.
Coffee break — West Village
Short coffee break to recharge before heading to Brooklyn.
Local tips:
- Order to-go if you're short on time, but enjoy sitting outside if weather is nice.
- Use this time to check NYC subway status for your trip to Brooklyn.
- Light snack options available if still a bit hungry.
Transfer: head toward Brooklyn Bridge (subway/walk)
Transit from West Village to the Manhattan side of Brooklyn Bridge — quick subway ride or 25–30 minute walk depending on preference.
Local tips:
- Use MTA apps or Google Maps for the fastest route; allow 30 minutes including station navigation.
- Bring a MetroCard / contactless card for the subway if using public transit.
- If walking, enjoy Lower Manhattan streets and arrive earlier for good bridge light.
Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge toward DUMBO
Iconic scenic walk over the bridge with Manhattan and Brooklyn skyline views; head toward DUMBO on the Brooklyn side.
Local tips:
- Stay on the pedestrian path; cyclists pass through frequently.
- Late afternoon light is excellent for photos of the skyline and bridge cables.
- Allow time after the walk to reach DUMBO restaurants and parks.
Dinner in DUMBO — Juliana's
Casual, high-quality coal-oven pizza in DUMBO; a local favorite for pizza and neighborhood atmosphere.
Local tips:
- No long wait if you arrive shortly after crossing the bridge; reservations recommended if available.
- Order a classic pizza to share and enjoy waterfront views afterward.
- If Juliana's is busy, nearby alternatives include Grimaldi's or other DUMBO eateries.
Sunset / evening views at Brooklyn Bridge Park
Relax with skyline views from Brooklyn Bridge Park — great spot for photos and to unwind after dinner.
Local tips:
- Bring a light jacket in the evening; it can be breezy by the river.
- Walk the waterfront esplanade for the best Manhattan views.
- Benches and lawns are available to sit and watch the skyline as lights come on.
Transfer back to Manhattan (subway or taxi)
Return to Manhattan via subway or taxi; plan for 25–35 minutes depending on connection.
Local tips:
- Subway (A/C/F/R) or ferry are options; check real-time schedules.
- If tired, a taxi or rideshare gives a door-to-door option home.
- Keep an eye on service changes late in the evening.
Day 2
Central Park and The Met in the morning, then Midtown sights and a Koreatown dinner with an optional jazz nightcap.
Breakfast near Central Park — Sarabeth's Central Park South
Start with a classic NYC brunch near the park to fuel a museum-filled day.
Local tips:
- Popular spot for tourists and locals; arrive early to avoid waits.
- Their pastries and jam selections are worth trying.
- Good spot for people-watching on Central Park South.
Central Park — Bethesda Terrace & The Mall
Short stroll through one of Central Park's most scenic areas, including Bethesda Terrace and Fountain.
Local tips:
- Nice to walk south-to-north toward the museums or vice versa.
- Bring water and enjoy the park musicians near the terrace on fair days.
- Great spot for photos and a relaxed pace before museum time.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met)
One of the city's premier museums — focus on highlights or a preferred wing to keep the visit relaxed.
Local tips:
- Buy timed-entry tickets in advance and prioritize a few galleries to avoid fatigue.
- The rooftop (seasonal) offers good views; museum cafés are available for breaks.
- Three hours is a comfortable amount of time to see key works.
Lunch at The Loeb Boathouse Central Park
Relaxed lakeside lunch in Central Park; a scenic place to rest after museum exploration.
Local tips:
- Reservations recommended on weekends and for prime times.
- If weather's nice, request a table with a view of the lake.
- Light walking from The Met; take time to sit and recharge.
Transfer toward Rockefeller Center (subway/walk)
Make your way from the park area to Midtown / Rockefeller Center for afternoon skyline views.
Local tips:
- Allow 20–30 minutes depending on walking vs. subway.
- Check elevator access if traveling with luggage or strollers.
- This is a convenient time to use a short transit hop to Midtown.
Top of the Rock Observation Deck
Afternoon skyline views from the Top of the Rock — excellent for photographing Manhattan, including Central Park and the Empire State Building.
Local tips:
- Buy tickets for a specific entry time to minimize waiting.
- Bring a compact camera or phone; glass is clean but use the open-air sections when possible.
- Sunset time here is lovely if your schedule allows for later return.
Stroll along Fifth Avenue (Midtown)
Short walk along Fifth Avenue to see flagship stores and Midtown architecture after the observation deck.
Local tips:
- Window-shop famous department stores or duck into St. Patrick's Cathedral if you like architecture.
- Keep your valuables secure in crowded shopping areas.
- This is a brief stroll to absorb Midtown energy without heavy shopping.
Coffee / short break at Rockefeller Center
A quick break for coffee and rest before heading to dinner in Koreatown.
Local tips:
- Use this time to sit and plan the evening; mobile ticketing often helps with restaurant queues.
- Blue Bottle and other chains are nearby for a reliable quick pick-me-up.
- Stretch your legs and hydrate before dinner.
Dinner in Koreatown — Jongro BBQ (Korean BBQ)
Hearty Korean BBQ dinner in Koreatown — great for groups or trying grilled meats and banchan small plates.
Local tips:
- Korean BBQ can be interactive; be prepared to grill at the table.
- Reservations are helpful on busy weekend nights in Koreatown.
- Try classic sides (banchan) and a Korean soju or beer if you enjoy spirits.
Evening jazz (optional) — Birdland Jazz Club
Cap the trip with a late jazz set at an iconic NYC jazz club (option if you're not too tired).
Local tips:
- Check show times and book tickets in advance; many sets start around 8:30–9:00 PM.
- Table or drink minimums may apply for evening performances.
- Great way to relax and hear live music in a classic venue.
Aladdin on Broadway Entry Tickets
Enjoy a visit to the historic New Amsterdam Theatre in New York’s Midtown Manhattan district and watch Disney’s Aladdin The Musical come to life in a new theatrical extravaganza with these show tickets. Hear the cherished songs from the Academy Awar...
$82
per adult
The Lion King Broadway Entry Tickets
Get your tickets for Disney’s The Lion King on Broadway in New York City, featuring Oscar-winning songs from Elton John and Tim Rice. Take in the wonderful African landscape as you follow the journey of Simba and his family in the stage adaptation of...
$126
per adult
MJ the Musical Broadway Tickets
Book your tickets to MJ, the electrifying Broadway musical that takes you inside the creative process of one of the greatest entertainers in history. Now a global phenomenon, MJ lets you celebrate and relive some of Michael Jackson’s most iconic hits...
$78
per adult
Broadway Comedy Club All Star Stand-Up Comedy Live
Broadway Comedy Club presents a lineup full of our Top Headliners. These are the best comedians from New York City with special guests from all across the country. You've seen them on MTV, HBO, The Tonight Show, Comedy Central, The Daily Show, Last C...
$22
per adult
Harlem Gospel Live Music Concert
Experience gospel music in Harlem like never before - on a Saturday! The Harlem Gospel Series has brought the best gospel concert to Harlem's doorstep, and it's definitely the top ticket in town. Get ready to be transported by the incredible music an...
$24
per adult
Harlem Hallelujah! Gospel Wednesday Concert
If it is Wednesday, it’s Gospel in Harlem. A 60-minute all gospel praise music at a historic Black church in Harlem. Known for its ministry and inspirational choirs, the church has opened its doors on Wednesdays to offer a musical worship. This is NO...
$22
per adult
Moulin Rouge! The Musical Broadway Tickets
Pop the champagne, Moulin Rouge! The Musical is the winner of 10 Tony Awards® — including Best Musical! Get tickets to see Moulin Rouge! The Musical on Broadway in New York City. Enter a world of splendor and romance, of eye-popping excess, of glitz,...
$56
per adult
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child on Broadway
Based on an original new story by J.K. Rowling, Jack Thorne, and John Tiffany, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child is a new play by Jack Thorne. It is the eighth story in the Harry Potter series and the first official Harry Potter story on stage. Wat...
$68
per adult
Hamilton Musical Walking Tour of Lower Manhattan
Walk in the footsteps of a Founding Father—while listening to the music that made history sing on a walking tour of Lower Manhattan. Join a guide to bring the world of Hamilton: An American Musical to life—right where it all happened. Immerse yourse...
$35
per adult
Radio City Music Hall Tour Experience
Step into the spotlight with the Radio City Music Hall Tour Experience! Follow in the footsteps of legends like the Radio City Rockettes, celebrating their 100th year anniversary, and musical greats on this captivating 60-minute guided tour. Immerse ...
$37
per adult
The Ride Interactive Bus Tour
When New York entrepreneurs and creative types join forces, ultramodern entertainment in the form of a 45-foot long bus with stadium seats, surround sound, and street performances ensues. Take this interactive 65-75 minute bus ride and see New York f...
$70
per adult
Sunday Harlem Gospel Guided Tour
Take an inspiring Sunday tour of Harlem to learn the history of the neighborhood, from its origins as a rural Dutch farming community to its transformation into a summer retreat for New York's most prominent families. Hear how public transportation ...
$76
per adult
Broadway Secrets & Behind-the-Scenes Studio Tour
This intimate small-group walking tour, limited to just 12 theater lovers, offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at Broadway and off-Broadway. Start in Times Square, where the iconic lights set the stage for your journey. Walk past historic theater...
$52
per adult
Friends TV Show Iconic Filming Locations Tour
Relive the best moments from the hit TV show Friends on a guided tour of New York City. Travel in a comfortable rickshaw pedicab or small van and stop at famous filming locations like Central Perk and the fountain from the opening credits. Meet your...
$107
per adult
Bob Dylan and Bruce Springsteen Music Tour
Explore the Greenwich Village music scene on a guided walking tour. Visit the venues where Bob Dylan and Bruce Springsteen played and hear about the people who were responsible for bringing them to stardom. Start at the spot where Gerde's Folk City ...
$44
per adult
Harlem: Mount Morris Gospel Tour with Brunch
Travel to uptown New York for a glorious brunch tour, and experience the uplifting sounds of live gospel music in one of Harlem's more prominent houses of worship. The 4-hour walking tour leads you through the Mount Morris Historic District, where t...
$102
per adult
Harlem Gospel Mass and Neighborhood Tour
Discover the main points of interest in Harlem and attend a gospel mass on this tour. Admire the church of Saint John the Divine, the largest neo-Gothic church in the world, and see the Apollo Theater. Meet your guide in front of Kiehl's on 9th Aven...
$67
per adult
New York Harbor Private Boat Charter for Six People
Enjoy time out on the water and gain a different perspective on New York with this private boat charter, with space for up to six passengers. Set sail around New York Harbor on a classic sailboat and cruise past Ellis Island, the Statue of Li...
$375
per adult
Brooklyn Sightseeing Sailboat Cruise
Experience the magic of NYC from the water on this sailing cruise from Brooklyn. Feel free to bring your own food and drinks. Capture pictures of iconic sights like the Manhattan skyline and Brooklyn Bridge. Meet your captain and begin your sailing ...
$86
per adult
New York Sightseeing Bus and Statue of Liberty Boat Ride
Experience the top sights of New York City by land and by sea on this guided full-day tour. Travel to top attractions such as Times Square, Central Park, Brooklyn Bridge, and more while aboard a comfortable tour bus. Then, hop on a ferry to c...
$219
per adult
Brooklyn Bridge and DUMBO Tour with East River Ferry
Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge: The highlight of your adventure will be a breathtaking stroll across the historic Brooklyn Bridge. Enjoy panoramic views of Manhattan and Brooklyn, capturing stunning photos along the way. Explore DUMBO: Discover t...
$48
per adult
New York Day Cruise by Statue of Liberty on Small Yacht
See several New York sights as you cruise along the Hudson River aboard a small yacht. Enjoy views of Manhattan's west side and skyline from the open bow, or unwind in a glass-enclosed observation cabin. Pass by areas including the Financial ...
$72
per adult
The Bowery Official Historic District Tour
Join us on a journey through over four centuries as we walk down NYC’s oldest street! Originally a Native American footpath and Dutch farm road, site of the first free Black homesteads, it witnessed gang wars, the bloody Astor Place Riot, &am...
$38
per adult
Thanksgiving Gourmet Lunch or Dinner Harbor Cruise
Cruising on the Bateaux New York offers unparalleled service in a refined atmosphere with 360-degree panoramic views of the New York City Skyline. Dine on a delectable 3-course prix fixe menu with each course served to your table, while you enjoy li...
$101
per adult
Central Park Pedicab Guided Tours
Settle into a cozy pedicab and spend an hour exploring 20 of Central Park’s best-loved landmarks with four special stops along the way—perfect for taking memorable photos. Led by an experienced local guide from NYC Park Tours, this ride cover...
$40
per adult
Central Park Private Pedicab Tour
Meet your guide at an easy-to-find spot, hop into a comfortable pedicab, and set off on a leisurely journey through Central Park. As you cruise along, your guide shares fascinating tales of how this famous green space was created, while point...
$40
per adult
Private Sail New York with Brooklyn Sail (6 passenger maximum)
2.5 hour sails for private groups up to six passengers from Pier 5 in Brooklyn Bridge Park, One15 Brooklyn Marina, 159 Bridge Park Drive.Views of the Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty, World Trade Center, Ellis Island, Governor's Isla...
$895
per adult
New York Central Park Private Pedicab Tour
Explore enormous Central Park without getting tired by taking a fun guided pedicab tour of the park. Take in the most famous attractions and landmarks in under two hours without breaking a sweat. Zip through the park to admire Wollman Rink, B...
$50
per adult
Central Park Pedicab Tour with Photo Stops
Enjoy the exhilarating pleasure of exploring the world’s most famous urban park from the comfort of a Pedicab and with the help of an experienced tour guide. Embark on a tour that is for tourists and locals alike. Your Central Park Pedicab Guided to...
$51
per adult
Whole Central Park Pedicab Tour Private
Ever wanted to explore and discover Central Park in comfort? Then we've got just what you need. NYC Park Tours offers you the perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy the fascinating view of the most famous attractions in Central Park from the ...
$40
per adult
New York Central Park Private Hop On Hop Off Pedicab Tour
Zoom around Central Park in style on this hop on, hop off pedicab tour. As a local guides you around this Manhattan greenspace, you’ll see the Central Park Carousel, Central Park Boathouse, and Heckscher Playground, the largest and oldest in ...
$50
per adult
#1 Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island | 100% Satisfaction Guarantee
Enjoy a stress-free visit to two must-see New York landmarks—the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island—with this small-group guided tour. Avoid waiting in line for tickets, and ride the ferry out to the two sights. With eight people or fewer, it...
$158
per adult