3 days in New York itinerary
Highlights
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art & Central Park
- High Line, Chelsea Market and Greenwich Village
- Brooklyn Bridge + DUMBO sunset
- MoMA and Midtown shopping
- Local meals at well-regarded neighborhood restaurants
Itinerary
Day 1
Uptown museums and Central Park in the morning, Midtown viewpoints and a lively evening in Times Square / Midtown.
Breakfast at Café Sabarsky
A refined Viennese-style breakfast to start the day near the Upper East Side museums.
Local tips:
- Order a classic Austrian pastry and coffee; café can be busy on weekends.
- Located inside the Neue Galerie — short walk to The Met.
- If you prefer quicker coffee, ask for takeaway and walk to The Met.
Walk to The Metropolitan Museum of Art (transfer)
Short walk across the Upper East Side to the main entrance of the Met.
Local tips:
- Allow 10–20 minutes depending on pace; enjoy the streets along 5th Avenue.
- Pick up a map at the Met entrance to prioritize galleries.
- Restroom facilities are available inside the museum.
Explore The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Major collections: European paintings, arms & armor, ancient art and rooftop views (seasonal). Focus on 1–2 sections you care about most.
Local tips:
- Buy timed-entry tickets or arrive early to avoid the biggest crowds.
- If short on time, prioritize the European paintings and Egyptian galleries.
- Rooftop (seasonal) offers great park and skyline views.
Stroll in Central Park — Bethesda Terrace & The Mall
A relaxed walk through one of the Park’s most iconic spots between The Met and mid-park areas.
Local tips:
- Good spots for photos: Bethesda Terrace and Bow Bridge.
- Bring water and wear comfortable shoes; there are benches along the route.
- If weather is nice, consider a short row-boat rental near the Loeb Boathouse (time permitting).
Lunch at The Loeb Boathouse Central Park
Casual sit-down lunch by the lake — a calm mid-day meal after your park stroll.
Local tips:
- If you want a quieter option, request a lakeside table (seasonal).
- Service can be slower at peak times; allow time so you aren’t rushed.
- They offer a mix of sandwiches and full entrees — good for groups.
Transfer to Rockefeller Center / Columbus Circle area
Subway or quick taxi down to Midtown for afternoon viewpoints.
Local tips:
- From the Upper East Side, take the subway downtown (crosstown transfer) or hail a cab for ~15–25 minutes depending on traffic.
- Use the 59th St - Columbus Circle station as a central transfer point.
- Check for service advisories on the MTA app if taking the subway.
Top of the Rock observation deck
Panoramic city views including a direct view of the Empire State Building and Central Park.
Local tips:
- Best light is late afternoon for warm tones — reserve tickets with a time slot.
- Arrive 15 minutes early for security and elevator queues.
- Bring a camera; the viewing levels give different photo opportunities.
Quick walk through Times Square
Experience the lights and energy of Times Square; short stop for photos and people-watching.
Local tips:
- Keep belongings secure — it’s crowded.
- This is a short experience; nearby restaurants and theaters are accessible if you want to extend.
- Evening lights are best after sunset; this visit is brief to keep nice pacing.
Dinner — Ippudo Westside (ramen)
Flavorful ramen in Midtown West for a satisfying, local-favorite dinner.
Local tips:
- Ramen houses can have waits — go early or add your name to the list and explore nearby blocks while you wait.
- Try a tasting order to sample broth styles if sharing.
- They offer vegetarian options; ask staff for recommendations.
Evening rest / short park break (Bryant Park)
Unwind in Bryant Park with a coffee or dessert — a pleasant green space near midtown hotels and transit.
Local tips:
- There are pop-up food kiosks and seating in good weather.
- If you’re staying in Midtown, this is a convenient place to orient for tomorrow.
- Free Wi-Fi is usually available in the park.
Day 2
Village charm, Chelsea’s market culture, High Line stroll, then downtown to the 9/11 Memorial and a sunset walk across the Brooklyn Bridge into DUMBO.
Breakfast at Buvette (West Village)
Classic French small plates and coffee in a cozy West Village spot — great start before exploring the Village.
Local tips:
- Small interior — early arrival recommended.
- Try a light savory tartine or croissant with coffee.
- Cashless — card payments only.
Explore Greenwich Village (neighborhood stroll)
Wander tree-lined streets, Washington Square Park, independent shops and coffeehouses.
Local tips:
- Walk slowly and peek into side streets for unique shops and architecture.
- Washington Square Park is lively — good for street musicians and people-watching.
- Bring a reusable bottle; there are small spaces to rest.
Transfer to Chelsea Market (via short subway or taxi)
Move north-west to Chelsea for market browsing and lunch.
Local tips:
- Take a quick subway ride (A/C/E to 14th St) or a 10–20 minute cab depending on traffic.
- Chelsea Market is compact — plan which vendors you want to sample.
- Allow extra time if you want to visit the High Line head gates nearby.
Lunch at Chelsea Market
Food-hall style lunch with many vendors — great for groups with different tastes.
Local tips:
- Try to arrive before peak noon to avoid long lines.
- Popular vendors sell out midday — consider grabbing small bites from different stalls.
- There are both indoor and limited outdoor seating options.
Walk the High Line
Elevated park built on a former rail line with art, gardens and skyline views — good calm-to-lively transition.
Local tips:
- Enter near Chelsea Market to walk south-to-north or vice versa; plan direction based on daylight.
- Benches and viewpoints are spaced out — stop for photos at sunset if timing allows.
- The High Line can be windy — bring a light layer.
Transfer to 9/11 Memorial / One World area
Subway or taxi downtown to the Financial District for the memorial and observatory.
Local tips:
- Plan about 30–45 minutes for transit depending on transfers; allow extra time for security at memorial/observatory.
- Use PATH or subway lines to reach the World Trade Center complex.
- Check operating hours and pre-book tickets for One World Observatory if visiting inside.
Visit One World Observatory / 9/11 Memorial (downtown)
Reflect at the memorial pools and, if desired, ascend One World Observatory for sweeping waterfront views.
Local tips:
- Memorial plaza is outdoors and accessible; the museum and observatory have separate timed tickets.
- Allocate time for security lines and bag checks.
- Sunset from One World or the nearby waterfront is exceptional.
Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge
Scenic late-afternoon walk from Manhattan into Brooklyn — iconic skyline views and photo opportunities.
Local tips:
- Start the walk from the Manhattan side for classic skyline shots of DUMBO.
- The bridge can be crowded near sunset; keep pace steady and be mindful of bicyclists.
- Bring a light jacket — it can be breezy on the bridge.
Explore DUMBO and grab golden-hour photos
DUMBO’s waterfront and Washington Street viewpoints are perfect for skyline and bridge photos.
Local tips:
- The Washington Street photo spot (Pebble Beach) is popular — visit early in the golden hour to avoid crowds.
- Stroll Brooklyn Bridge Park piers for different views and benches to rest.
- There are cafes and shops nearby for a quick snack before dinner.
Dinner at Juliana's Pizza (DUMBO)
Classic coal-oven pizza in Brooklyn — a local favorite near the waterfront.
Local tips:
- Juliana's can have a line — arriving early or making a reservation (if available) helps.
- Share a couple of pies to sample different toppings.
- Outdoor seating options may be available seasonally.
Transfer back to Manhattan (subway from High St)
Evening subway ride back to Manhattan; relax and reflect on the day’s skyline views.
Local tips:
- High St - Brooklyn Bridge Station gives easy access northwest back into Manhattan.
- Subway trains run frequently; check MTA for any late-night service changes.
- Bring a MetroCard or use contactless payment for quick access.
Day 3
A museum morning on the Upper West Side, mid-day MoMA in Midtown, easy Fifth Avenue walk, and a relaxed East Village dinner to finish.
Breakfast at Levain Bakery (Upper West Side)
Hearty cookies and coffee to fuel a museum-packed morning. Quick, local favorite.
Local tips:
- Levain is famous for its cookies—grab one to go if you plan to eat at the museum.
- Lines can form; aim to arrive early to avoid waits.
- They have multiple locations; this plan uses the Upper West Side location near AMNH.
American Museum of Natural History
Explore dinosaurs, the planetarium (if you book separately) and wide-ranging natural history exhibits.
Local tips:
- Pick 2–3 halls to focus on (e.g., dinosaurs, fossils, and the Hall of Biodiversity) to make the most of your time.
- Planetarium shows require separate timed tickets — plan ahead if interested.
- Locker and coat check available for larger bags.
Transfer to Columbus Circle / Lincoln Center area
Short transit or walk to the Columbus Circle area for a quick transfer and lunch options.
Local tips:
- The walk down Central Park West to Columbus Circle is scenic and takes about 15–25 minutes.
- Subway options include the B/D at 59th St - Columbus Circle for quicker travel.
- Use this time to rehydrate and check your route to Midtown.
Lunch at Zabar's (Upper West Side deli)
Classic New York deli and smoked fish counter for a relaxed deli lunch.
Local tips:
- Order a bagel and lox or one of their prepared salads; counters can be busy at noon.
- Zabar’s also has packaged goods to buy as souvenirs or snacks for the day.
- Seating is limited — take food to a nearby park bench if you prefer.
Transfer to MoMA (Museum of Modern Art)
Travel to Midtown to visit MoMA for an afternoon of modern and contemporary art.
Local tips:
- Subway or a short cab will get you to 53rd St quickly; allow 20–30 minutes door-to-door.
- Check MoMA’s current special exhibitions and timed-entry options before you go.
- If you have an NY museum reciprocity pass, bring it to speed entry.
Visit MoMA
See masterpieces of modern art — prioritize rooms or artists you don’t want to miss (e.g., van Gogh, Warhol).
Local tips:
- MoMA can be crowded; head to the most important galleries first.
- Audio guides and maps are available to streamline your visit.
- Allow time in the museum shop for curated design products if interested.
Break at Bryant Park
Relax with a coffee or light snack in Bryant Park; good mid-afternoon breather.
Local tips:
- Sit by the seasonal green and watch passersby — good spot for people-watching.
- There are kiosks for coffee and snacks if you didn’t pack food.
- Free public seating is available when not reserved for events.
Walk along Fifth Avenue (shopping / window shopping)
Stroll the famous avenue for flagship stores, architecture, and Midtown energy.
Local tips:
- If shopping, concentrate on a few stores to avoid overextending; window shopping is a great alternative.
- Outdoor walking is the best way to absorb the avenue — use crosswalks and pedestrian phases.
- Take photos of store facades and landmarks like St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
Dinner — Momofuku Noodle Bar (East Village)
Finish with an East Village favorite for inventive ramen and small plates.
Local tips:
- Reservations may be limited; consider going early or be prepared for a short wait.
- Share a couple of dishes to sample the menu variety.
- East Village has many nearby dessert spots for a post-dinner stroll.
Optional nightcap / farewell stroll in East Village (Death & Co)
Cap the trip with a cocktail at a respected East Village cocktail bar or a relaxed neighborhood walk.
Local tips:
- Death & Co is a popular cocktail bar — reservations recommended, otherwise expect a wait.
- If the bar is busy, plenty of nearby lounges or bakeries are open for a relaxed end to the night.
- Walking back to transit is straightforward — plan 20–30 minutes to reach major subway lines.
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