4 days in New York itinerary
Highlights
- High Line & Chelsea Market
- Greenwich Village & Washington Square
- Central Park & American Museum of Natural History
- SoHo, Lower East Side, and Tenement Museum
- Brooklyn Bridge & DUMBO
- Whitney Museum & Flatiron / Union Square
Itinerary
Day 1
Meatpacking, Chelsea, and West Village orientation with local meals and relaxed walks.
Arrive at hotel / drop bags
Quick drop-off of luggage and short orientation at the hotel in the Meatpacking District.
Local tips:
- If you arrive before official check-in, ask the desk to hold your bags or for early check-in options.
- Keep a small daypack for the walks today.
- schedule
Brunch at a cozy neighborhood bistro
Relaxed French-style brunch to start the day and use as a planning stop.
Local tips:
- Buvette is small and popular — expect a short wait at peak times.
- Share several small plates to try a variety.
- schedule
Walk the High Line
Elevated linear park with gardens, public art, and great views over the Hudson and Chelsea.
Local tips:
- Enter near Gansevoort Street for a quieter start.
- Sunscreen and a hat are good in summer; benches are limited on busy days.
- schedule
Lunch & exploring at Chelsea Market
Browse varied food stalls and specialty shops — great for a flexible lunch and snacks.
Local tips:
- Try multiple small vendors rather than one big plate to sample more.
- Indoor seating fills up—grab something and head to the High Line or nearby benches if needed.
- schedule
Transfer via subway/walk to Union Square / Washington Square area
Short transfer to the Village; use this time to rest and move neighborhoods.
Local tips:
- Use a MetroCard or OMNY tap for quick subway access.
- Check live train info if you prefer the subway over walking; both are about 10–20 minutes depending on exact route.
- schedule
Relax at Washington Square Park
People-watch, see the arch, and enjoy the park atmosphere at the heart of the Village.
Local tips:
- Benches and lawns are great for a short rest; watch for street musicians and chess players.
- The arch and fountain make good photo stops.
- schedule
Stroll and browse the West Village
Wander tree-lined streets, boutique shops, and historic brownstones at a relaxed pace.
Local tips:
- Check out Bleecker Street for independent shops and bakeries.
- Allow time to wander side streets — the neighborhood is best explored slowly.
- schedule
Dinner at a neighborhood favorite
Seasonal, rustic Italian dishes in a cozy West Village setting — reserve if possible.
Local tips:
- Reservations are recommended for busy evenings.
- Share a few plates; the menu changes with seasonality.
- schedule
Evening coffee / digestif
A relaxed end to day one with coffee or a small drink nearby.
Local tips:
- If you prefer dessert, seek out a local bakery; otherwise enjoy a sit-down coffee.
- This is a good time to map out the next day's museum timings.
- schedule
Day 2
Parks and museums uptown with a relaxed evening at Lincoln Center.
Bagel breakfast
Quick, classic New York bagel to fuel a full day of walking.
Local tips:
- Order ahead if available to save time.
- Try a classic lox & cream cheese for a local experience.
- schedule
Walk through Central Park (south to mid-park)
See Bethesda Terrace, The Mall, and other highlights on a relaxed route through the park.
Local tips:
- Start at the south end to see the Pond and Gapstow Bridge.
- If weather's nice, rent a rowboat at the Loeb Boathouse (extra time/cost).
- schedule
American Museum of Natural History
Hands-on displays, dinosaur halls, and cultural exhibits — great for all ages.
Local tips:
- Plan which halls you most want to see; the museum is large and can be tiring.
- Buy timed-entry tickets if you want to avoid lines.
- schedule
Coffee and a light break
Rest after a big museum visit with a classic café vibe.
Local tips:
- Cafe Lalo is a cozy spot known for desserts — a nice mid-afternoon pause.
- If you'd like something quicker, try a nearby bakery.
- schedule
Stroll Lincoln Center and nearby streets
See the plazas, fountains, and cultural institutions; a calmer cultural block than midtown bustle.
Local tips:
- Check performance schedules in case you want to add an evening show.
- Benches and lawn spaces are pleasant for a short rest.
- schedule
Dinner near Lincoln Center
Casual American bistro near the theater district — a relaxing last stop for the day.
Local tips:
- Reserve for evenings, especially if there is a show nearby.
- Ask for a quieter table away from the bar if you want a calm meal.
- schedule
Day 3
Lower East Side and SoHo in the morning, then cross to Brooklyn for sunset and pizza in DUMBO.
Breakfast at a classic Lower East Side cafe
Start with a savory bagel or smoked fish at a storied local spot.
Local tips:
- Russ & Daughters Cafe can get busy; consider arriving early.
- Their smoked fish platters are excellent to share.
- schedule
Tenement Museum or Neighborhood walk on the Lower East Side
Explore immigrant history at the Tenement Museum or take a self-guided walk through historic streets.
Local tips:
- Book Tenement Museum tours in advance — they run on a schedule.
- If the museum is fully booked, a walking route pointing out historic sites works well too.
- schedule
SoHo pizza lunch
Grab a classic New York slice at a neighborhood favorite and enjoy a casual lunch.
Local tips:
- Prince Street Pizza is a local favorite for its square, pepperoni-heavy slices.
- Stand in or take out to continue exploring SoHo.
- schedule
Explore SoHo & NoLIta
Window-shop, browse galleries, and enjoy the cast-iron architecture and independent stores.
Local tips:
- Look for local designers in side-street boutiques.
- SoHo is best explored on foot — allow time to duck into small shops.
- schedule
Transfer to Brooklyn Bridge / City Hall area
Subway or taxi ride to the south end of Brooklyn Bridge to begin the cross-bridge walk.
Local tips:
- Subway is usually fastest; avoid rush hour if you prefer walking comfortably on the bridge.
- Use pedestrian entrance on Centre St / Park Row for best access.
- schedule
Walk the Brooklyn Bridge toward DUMBO
Iconic bridge walk with skyline views — plan for a relaxed pace and photos.
Local tips:
- Walk from Manhattan to Brooklyn for classic skyline photos looking back at lower Manhattan.
- Avoid peak commuter times if possible; the bridge can get crowded mid-afternoon.
- schedule
Explore DUMBO (Jane's Carousel, waterfront views)
Photogenic cobblestone streets, waterfront parks, and great skyline vantage points.
Local tips:
- Walk to Pebble Beach and the Brooklyn Bridge Park for classic views.
- Check out small galleries and shops along Washington Street.
- schedule
Dinner at a well-regarded Brooklyn pizza spot
Enjoy coal- or wood-fired pies in a classic Brooklyn pizza restaurant near the waterfront.
Local tips:
- Juliana's is popular—arrive early or expect a short wait.
- Great spot for classic New York-style pizza and a casual meal.
- schedule
Day 4
Finish with contemporary art, Flatiron & Union Square neighborhoods, and flexible departure prep.
Brunch at a classic SoHo bistro
Start the day at a bustling French bistro in SoHo for a leisurely brunch.
Local tips:
- Balthazar is popular — reservations or early arrival recommended.
- Save room for pastries if you like sweets.
- schedule
Whitney Museum of American Art
Modern and contemporary American art with a rooftop view of the High Line and Hudson.
Local tips:
- Buy timed-entry tickets to streamline entry.
- Rooftop offers good skyline views — check opening hours seasonally.
- schedule
Lunch at Eataly NYC Flatiron
Bustling Italian market and restaurants — flexible choices for pasta, pizza, and deli fare.
Local tips:
- Browse the market if you have time; counter-service options are faster.
- Perfect for a relaxed final lunch with varied options.
- schedule
See the Flatiron Building & Madison Square Park
Short walk to the iconic Flatiron Building and enjoy the park surroundings.
Local tips:
- Madison Square Park is great for a short rest or photo of the Flatiron building.
- Local food vendors are sometimes present in the park seasonally.
- schedule
Afternoon in Union Square (markets / shops)
Explore the square, street vendors, and nearby independent bookstores or the Greenmarket when available.
Local tips:
- Union Square has good shops and often small markets; check local listings for any special events.
- A good place to pick up last-minute gifts.
- schedule
Coffee break and downtime
Final coffee to recharge before departure; review transit options and gather belongings.
Local tips:
- Birch Coffee is a good quiet spot for planning departures and email checks.
- Confirm your luggage and transit timing during this break.
- schedule
Return to hotel / checkout and transfer to departure
Pick up luggage, check out, and make final transfer arrangements (train/airport/taxi).
Local tips:
- Allow ample time for airport or train transfers; Manhattan traffic can add delays.
- If heading to the airport, consider booking a car or using a reliable shuttle — or take the LIRR from Penn Station for JFK via AirTrain.
- schedule
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