This jam-packed itinerary breaks down the city’s must-see spots, so you won’t miss a beat. Get ready for some exploration as we stroll through iconic neighborhoods and indulge in delectable eats along the way.
If you’ve already been to New York City and checked these landmarks off your list, head to these alternative destinations instead!
Total Days: 4 Days | Accommodations: Hotel in Chelsea | Transportation: Walking and the subway mostly | Traveled: Solo| Type of Trip: Focus on landmarks, views and food | Highlights: Martinis at Bemelman’s, the High Line, Brooklyn views and Central Park exploring
DAY 1
At a glimpse: Exploring Midtown landmarks and food
Travel agenda: After getting situated at your accommodation, seek out a New York bagel, which can be found at any corner-store deli/bodega. Yes, it is that easy and oh so worth it! Walk through Times Square to feel the magic and insanity simultaneously, and then from there, it’s a 10-minute walk to the New York Public Library. Explore and find your way to the 3rd floor Reading Room! After, make a 5-minute detour to Grand Central. Stop in to gaze at the ceiling, architecture and NYC bustle. Walk three blocks north and get a casual lunch from local favorite Xi’an Famous Foods, which you can take to-go and eat at Bryant Park.
Stroll down 5th Ave for shopping (or window shopping, which can be just as entertaining especially around the holidays). Plan on dinner at Hutong, a trendy restaurant with Northern Chinese cuisine and dim sum and then take the short 6 subway train uptown to cocktails at Bemelman’s in the Carlyle Hotel (this is the place for a martini).
Tip: Taking the subway is usually faster than cabs in NYC!
DAY 2
At a glimpse: West Village destinations and restaurants
Travel agenda: Get up early and Uber to Dominique Ansel Bakery for breakfast (a cronut counts for breakfast, right?) Walk 10 minutes west to the Hudson River Park with views of Jersey City. Head north 20 minutes until reaching the High Line entrance. Stroll along the elevated and reconstructed rail structure from the 1930s and then traverse to Hudson Yards, a mega mall with the “Vessel” landmark, on the other side. Get a slice of pizza at Artichokes, and shop at Chelsea Market.
Head back to your hotel via the Hudson River Walk. Put your name in at Italian hot-spot Via Carota and while you wait, explore the charming West Village streets. Then it’s time for some laughs at the acclaimed Comedy Cellar.
Tip: Comedy Cellar can book up well in advance so look into tickets the month before, or check out one of the many other comedy venues in the area!
DAY 3
At a glimpse: Exploring the other side of the East River with a walk over the Brooklyn Bridge and ferry to Williamsburg
Travel Agenda: Take the subway to the World Trader Center subway stop, also under the “Oculus” hub. This is the site of the beautiful 9/11 Memorial and Museum. After your time there, walk 10 minutes passing historic Trinity Church and New York City Hall. Stroll over the Brooklyn Bridge and on the other side explore Dumbo and the parks and promenades. This will take you to the ticket office where you can buy a ferry ride to North Williamsburg. Meander the boutique markets and vintage stores. On the weekend get lunch at Smorgasburg or during the week walk to Oxomoco. Head to William Vale for a roof deck-with-a-view drink.
Head back to the city and change for the night. Experience Top of the Rock at sunset. Plan on dinner at old-school hotspot The Grill before the main event: a Broadway show.
Tip: I prefer Top of the Rock to the Empire State Building because that means the ESB is included in your view! For the Broadway show, find a TKTS booth in the morning or check what is available on TodayTix.
DAY 4
At a glimpse: New York brunch and Central Park musts
Travel agenda: Start the morning with a boozy brunch and the best bomboloni ever at Sotto13. From there, take the 15-minute 1 train uptown to Columbus Circle.
Meander north through Central Park. Keep an eye out for landmarks like Umpire Rock, Sheep Meadow, Cherry Hill, The Loeb Boathouse and the tranquil paths throughout the Ramble forest.
Bordering the park on the Upper East Side, stop at the MET Museum and take the free highlights tour. Get a drink and cheers to NYC on The MET rooftop.
Tip: Almost every activity is included in the Go City pass, ideal for those who are in town and exploring the city for more than a few days. Saves money and time – because you have a lot to see!
