New York City, often simply called New York, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Known as “The City That Never Sleeps”, NYC is famous for its bustling city life, iconic landmarks, diverse food scene, and vibrant culture. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to help you plan your visit to this exciting city.
The Best Time to Visit
Each season in New York City has its own charms. Spring (April-June) sees the city in bloom and is a great time for outdoor activities. Summers (July-August) can get hot but are packed with festivals and events. Autumn (September-November) offers comfortable weather and beautiful fall foliage. Winter (December-March), though cold, brings holiday festivities and the chance to see the city covered in snow. For milder weather and fewer crowds, spring and fall are ideal.
The best time to visit New York City depends on what you want to do during your trip. Here’s a general guide:
-Spring (April to June): The weather is mild and the city’s parks are in full bloom. It’s a great time for outdoor activities and for visiting Central Park.
-Summer (July to August): It can get hot and humid, but there are lots of festivals and outdoor events going on. Be prepared for higher prices and more tourists, especially in August.
-Fall (September to November): The weather is comfortable, and the fall foliage, particularly in Central Park and the Hudson River Valley, is stunning. The New York Film Festival takes place in late September to mid-October.
-Winter (December to March): Winters can be cold and snowy, but there’s nothing quite like New York City during the holidays with the festive lights, Christmas markets, and ice skating. Plus, you can see the famous New Year’s Eve ball drop in Times Square.
In terms of crowds and prices, the cheapest time to visit is usually January and February, but the weather is also at its coldest then. The most expensive times are usually around the holidays and in the peak summer tourist season. Keep in mind that there’s always something going on in New York City, no matter when you decide to visit!
How to Get There
New York City is served by three main airports: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). All offer multiple transportation options to the city, including taxis, buses, and trains. Booking flights well in advance can help secure the best deals.
Budget for a couple
- Accommodation: A mid-range hotel in New York City can cost around $200-250 per night, so for a week, it would be approximately $1,400-1,750.
- Food: A decent meal at a mid-range restaurant could cost around $40-50 per person. So, for two people, three meals a day for a week would be about $1,680-2,100.
- Activities and entertainment: Entry fees for attractions like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, Broadway shows, museums, and others can add up. Estimate around $200-300 per person for the week, or $400-600 total.
- Transportation: A 7-Day Unlimited MetroCard (for subways and buses) is $33 per person, or $66 total. If you plan to use taxis or ride-shares, this will be more.
So, a rough estimate for a week in NYC for two people would be around $3,500-4,500, not including flights.
Accommodation Options
Budget Accommodation
HI NYC Hostel: This is one of the best-rated hostels in NYC. Dormitory beds start at around $50 per night. It’s located near Central Park and offers free activities and tours.
Pod Hotels: With locations in Times Square and on 39th Street, these hotels offer compact, efficient rooms at a lower price point, starting around $120 per night.
Mid-Range Accommodation
Hampton Inn Manhattan-Times Square North: This hotel offers clean, comfortable rooms starting around $200 per night. It includes a complimentary hot breakfast.
Holiday Inn Manhattan – Financial District: Located near Wall Street, rooms here start at approximately $150 per night. It’s the world’s tallest Holiday Inn and offers amazing views.
Luxury Accommodation
The Plaza Hotel: A New York icon, you might recognize this hotel from movies like “Home Alone 2.” Rooms start at around $600 per night. It offers opulent interiors and is located right on Central Park.
The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park: This luxury hotel offers rooms with park views starting around $800 per night. It includes a spa, a fine dining restaurant, and a lounge serving afternoon tea.
Unique Accommodation
1 Hotel Central Park: This eco-friendly hotel is furnished with reclaimed materials and offers rooms starting around $400 per night. It’s located one block from Central Park.
All prices are approximate and can vary depending on the time of year and how far in advance you book. Also, don’t forget to factor in the hotel tax, which is 14.75% plus $3.50 per room per night. Always check the hotel’s own website for the best deals and current safety measures.
Getting Around the City
New York City has an extensive public transportation system, including the subway, buses, and ferries. The subway is the quickest way to get around, and a 7-Day Unlimited MetroCard costs $33 per person. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available, but keep in mind that NYC traffic can be heavy. Many of New York’s attractions are also within walking distance of each other, making walking a viable (and free!) option.
7-day itinerary for New York City
Day 1
– Morning: Visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island ($18.50 per adult, $14 for children).
– Afternoon: Explore Battery Park and Wall Street (free).
– Evening: Visit Times Square (free).
Day 2
– Morning: Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art (pay-what-you-wish for NY residents, $25 for adults, $12 for students, free for children under 12).
– Afternoon: Stroll through Central Park (free).
– Evening: Watch a Broadway show (~$150 per ticket).
Day 3
– Morning: Visit the Empire State Building ($46 per adult, $40 per child).
– Afternoon: Explore the High Line and Chelsea Market (free).
– Evening: Visit the Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center ($38 per adult, $32 per child).
Day 4
– Morning: Visit the Museum of Modern Art ($25 per adult, free for children under 16).
– Afternoon: Explore Fifth Avenue and do some shopping (free).
– Evening: Visit Grand Central Terminal (free).
Day 5
– Morning: Visit the American Museum of Natural History (pay-what-you-wish for NY residents, $23 for adults, $13 for children).
– Afternoon: Visit the New York Public Library and Bryant Park (free).
– Evening: Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge (free).
Day 6
– Morning: Visit the Guggenheim Museum ($25 per adult, free for children under 12).
– Afternoon: Visit the Central Park Zoo ($19.95 per adult, $14.95 per child).
– Evening: Enjoy a dinner cruise on the Hudson River (~$100 per person).
Day 7
– Morning: Visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum ($26 per adult, $15 per child).
– Afternoon: Explore Chinatown and Little Italy (free).
– Evening: Sunset ferry ride to Staten Island (free).
Please note that prices can change and it’s always a good idea to check the websites of each attraction for the most current information. Also, some attractions may have reduced prices for seniors or students, and there are often discounts available if you buy a New York City tourist pass or book a package deal.
Day 1.
Morning: Visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
– The ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island leaves from Battery Park. The ticket cost includes both the ferry ride and access to Liberty Island and Ellis Island.
– The Statue of Liberty is a gift from France and is a symbol of freedom and democracy. You can walk around the statue and enjoy the view of the city skyline.
– Ellis Island was the gateway for over 12 million immigrants to the U.S. between 1892 and 1954. The Ellis Island Immigration Museum tells their stories.
– The ferry starts operating at 8:30 AM and it’s recommended to get there early to beat the crowds. The total visit will take approximately 5-6 hours.
Afternoon: Explore Battery Park and Wall Street
– After returning from the islands, spend some time in Battery Park. The park has several monuments and offers a great view of the Statue of Liberty.
– A 10-minute walk from Battery Park is Wall Street, known for the New York Stock Exchange and the Charging Bull statue.
– Fun Fact: The Charging Bull statue was deposited overnight by guerrilla artist Arturo Di Modica in 1989 and is considered a symbol of “aggressive financial optimism and prosperity”.
Evening: Visit Times Square
– Times Square is best seen in the evening when all the billboards are lit up. It’s bustling with people, street performers, and vendors.
– Fun Fact: Times Square got its name in 1904 when The New York Times moved its headquarters to the newly erected Times Building.
Transportation:
– Taxi from your midtown hotel to Battery Park would cost around $15-20. Or you can use a 7-Day Unlimited MetroCard ($33 per person) which covers both buses and subways. The subway would be the fastest and most economical way to travel.
– The subway fare is $2.75 per ride with a MetroCard. Buses are also $2.75 per ride.
Food:
– For lunch, you can grab a quick bite in Battery Park. There are plenty of food vendors selling hot dogs, pretzels, and more. For a sit-down meal, there’s Battery Gardens restaurant right in the park.
– In the evening, around Times Square, there are plenty of dining options. John’s Pizzeria on 44th street is popular for New York-style pizza.
– For a taste of local cuisine, try New York cheesecake, bagels, or a hot dog from a street vendor.
Day 2: Exploring Art, Nature, and Theater
Morning: Metropolitan Museum of Art
Start your day at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, commonly known as the Met. It’s one of the world’s largest and most visited art museums, with a collection spanning over 5,000 years of world culture. The museum opens at 10 AM and it’s recommended to arrive early to avoid crowds.
What to see: The museum’s vast collection includes everything from Ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary photography. Don’t miss the Temple of Dendur, which was disassembled and reassembled in the museum, and the impressive collection of European paintings.
Fun Fact: The Met’s facade features four blank spaces intended for statues of famous artists. However, due to lack of funding, these spaces are still empty today.
Transit: You can reach the Met by taking the 4, 5, or 6 subway to 86th Street and then walking west. The fare is $2.75.
Afternoon: Central Park
After exploring the Met, head to Central Park, which is just across the street. This vast green space in the heart of Manhattan is a perfect place to relax, have a picnic, or take a leisurely stroll.
What to do: You can visit the Central Park Zoo, take a rowboat out on the lake, or simply enjoy the park’s natural beauty. Don’t miss the Bethesda Fountain, one of the largest fountains in New York, and the nearby “Literary Walk” lined with statues of famous writers.
Fun Fact: Central Park is one of the most filmed locations in the world. You’ll probably recognize parts of it from various movies and TV shows!
Lunch: Grab a hot dog or pretzel from a street vendor in the park, or head to the nearby Shake Shack on 77th and Columbus for a burger and fries. Expect to spend around $10-15 per person.
Evening: Broadway Show
In the evening, head to Times Square for a Broadway show.
What to expect: Broadway is known for its high-quality theatrical productions. Whether you’re into musicals, dramas, or comedies, there’s something for everyone.
Fun Fact: The “Broadway” theater district actually comprises a number of theaters on and off Broadway, the street from which the district takes its name.
Dinner: For dinner, try Sardi’s, an iconic restaurant known for the hundreds of caricatures of show-business celebrities that adorn its walls. The famous Cannelloni au Gratin is around $24.
Transit: From Central Park, you can take the N, Q, or R subway to Times Square. The fare is $2.75.
Remember, Broadway show tickets can range widely in price depending on the show and seats, but expect to pay at least $100 per ticket. It’s also a good idea to book tickets in advance.
End of Day: After a long day of art, nature, and theater, take a taxi, subway, or a leisurely walk back to your accommodation. Taxi fares start at $2.50, plus $0.50 per 1/5 mile, or you can take the subway for $2.75. Enjoy some well-deserved rest and get ready for another exciting day in New York City!
Day 3: Soaring Heights and Urban Delights
Morning: Empire State Building
Begin your day with a trip to the top of the Empire State Building. The building opens at 8 AM and it’s best to get there early to beat the crowds.
What to expect: Enjoy a breathtaking view of the city from the building’s 86th-floor observatory. You can see Central Park, Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, and more from this vantage point.
Fun Fact: The Empire State Building stood as the world’s tallest building for nearly 40 years until the completion of the North Tower of the World Trade Center in late 1970.
Transit: The Empire State Building is located at 350 5th Ave. You can reach it by taking the B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, or W trains to 34th Street/Herald Square. The fare is $2.75.
Afternoon: High Line and Chelsea Market
After coming down from the heights of the Empire State Building, head to the High Line, a 1.45-mile-long elevated linear park created on a former New York Central Railroad spur.
What to do: Enjoy a leisurely walk along the park, soaking in the city views, the art installations, and the beautifully maintained gardens.
Fun Fact: The High Line was slated for demolition in the 1990s, but was saved by a community-led effort to turn it into a public park.
Lunch at Chelsea Market: Right beside the High Line is Chelsea Market, an indoor food hall with a variety of eateries. Grab lunch at Los Tacos No.1, considered by many to serve some of the best tacos in the city. Expect to spend around $10-15 per person.
Evening: Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center
As the sun begins to set, make your way to Rockefeller Center to visit the Top of the Rock.
What to expect: The Top of the Rock offers 360-degree panoramic views of New York City and beyond from three observation decks on the 67th, 69th, and 70th floors.
Fun Fact: The Top of the Rock was first opened to the public in 1933, but was closed in 1986 and didn’t reopen until 2005.
Dinner: For dinner, try The Rainbow Room’s Bar SixtyFive. It’s a bit pricey, but the view is worth it. Expect to pay around $30 for a main course.
Transit: To get to Rockefeller Center, you can take the B, D, F, or M train to 47-50 Sts – Rockefeller Center station. The fare is $2.75.
Remember, prices can vary and it’s always a good idea to check the official websites for the most accurate information and to book tickets in advance where possible.
Day 4: Art, Shopping, and Iconic Landmarks
Morning: Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
Start your day at MoMA, one of the largest and most influential museums of modern art in the world. The museum opens at 10:30 AM and it’s recommended to arrive early to avoid crowds.
What to expect: Explore the museum’s vast collection of over 200,000 works of art, including famous pieces like Vincent van Gogh’s “The Starry Night” and Salvador Dalí’s “The Persistence of Memory.”
Fun Fact: MoMA was the first art museum to establish a department dedicated to Architecture and Design.
Transit: MoMA is located at 11 W 53rd St. You can get there by taking the E or M train to 5th Avenue/53rd Street. The fare is $2.75.
Afternoon: Fifth Avenue Shopping
After getting your fill of art, head over to Fifth Avenue for some shopping.
What to do: Fifth Avenue is renowned for its luxury boutiques and flagship department stores. Even if you’re not planning to buy anything, window shopping along this famous avenue is a treat. Don’t miss iconic stores like Tiffany & Co., Bergdorf Goodman, and the Apple Store.
Fun Fact: Fifth Avenue is considered one of the most expensive shopping streets in the world.
Lunch: Grab a quick bite at one of the many food trucks or fast-casual eateries along Fifth Avenue. You can get a delicious gyro from a street vendor for around $7 or a salad from Sweetgreen for about $12.
Evening: Grand Central Terminal
End your day at another iconic New York landmark, Grand Central Terminal.
What to see: Marvel at the terminal’s beautiful architecture, including the celestial ceiling mural in the Main Concourse. Don’t miss the Whispering Gallery, a spot where the acoustics allow whispers to travel across the curved ceiling.
Fun Fact: Grand Central Terminal covers 49 acres and has 44 platforms, more than any other railway station in the world.
Dinner: Dine at the Grand Central Oyster Bar & Restaurant, an NYC institution. Try their pan roast, a creamy stew with oysters or seafood for around $30.
Transit: Grand Central Terminal is accessible via the 4, 5, 6, 7, and S subway lines. The fare is $2.75.
Day 5: History, Literature, and Iconic Landmarks
Morning: American Museum of Natural History
Begin your day at the American Museum of Natural History, one of the world’s preeminent scientific and cultural institutions. The museum opens at 10 AM.
What to see: The museum’s vast collections encompass millions of specimens and artifacts, including dinosaur fossils, a 94-foot-long model of a blue whale, and the stunning Hayden Planetarium.
Fun Fact: The museum has been featured in many films, including “Night at the Museum.”
Transit: The museum is located at Central Park West & 79th St. You can reach it by taking the B or C train to 81st Street. The fare is $2.75.
Afternoon: New York Public Library and Bryant Park
Afterwards, head to the New York Public Library’s main branch, located at Bryant Park.
What to do: Marvel at the grand Beaux-Arts architecture of the library, and explore its various exhibits. Don’t forget to see the Rose Main Reading Room, a beautiful space that’s over 100 years old.
Fun Fact: The library’s two famous lion statues are named Patience and Fortitude.
Bryant Park: Just behind the library is Bryant Park, a lovely green space where you can relax, people-watch, or even play a game of chess or ping-pong.
Lunch: Grab a bite at the Bryant Park Grill, where you can enjoy a New York strip steak for around $38 or a crab cake burger for $24.
Evening: Brooklyn Bridge
End your day with a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. This iconic bridge offers fantastic views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty.
What to expect: The walk takes about 30 minutes. Make sure to stay in the pedestrian lane and watch out for cyclists!
Fun Fact: When the Brooklyn Bridge opened in 1883, it was the longest suspension bridge in the world.
Dinner: Once you reach Brooklyn, have dinner at Juliana’s Pizza, a popular spot known for its New York-style pizza. Expect to pay around $30 for a large pizza.
Transit: To get to the Brooklyn Bridge, you can take the 4, 5, or 6 train to Brooklyn Bridge/City Hall. The fare is $2.75.
Day 6: Art, Wildlife, and Waterfront Dining
Morning: Guggenheim Museum
Start your day at the Guggenheim Museum, an internationally renowned art museum and one of the most significant architectural icons of the 20th century. The museum opens at 11 AM.
What to see: The museum’s collection is focused on modern and contemporary art, including works by artists like Picasso, Kandinsky, and Miró.
Fun Fact: The unique spiraling design of the museum building was created by famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright.
Transit: The Guggenheim is located at 1071 5th Ave. You can reach it by taking the 4, 5, or 6 train to 86th Street. The fare is $2.75.
Afternoon: Central Park Zoo
Next, head over to the Central Park Zoo, a small 6.5-acre zoo located in Central Park.
What to do: See everything from snow leopards to sea lions. There’s also a petting zoo where children can get up close with goats, sheep, cows, and more.
Fun Fact: The Central Park Zoo was originally a menagerie, making it the first official zoo in New York.
Lunch: Grab a quick bite at the Dancing Crane Cafe in the zoo. You can get a burger for about $8 or a salad for about $7.
Evening: Hudson River Dinner Cruise
End your day with a dinner cruise on the Hudson River.
What to expect: Enjoy a buffet dinner, dance to a DJ’s music, and marvel at the stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and the Brooklyn Bridge.
Fun Fact: The Hudson River is named after Henry Hudson, an Englishman sailing for the Dutch East India Company, who explored it in 1609.
Transit: To get to the dinner cruise departure point, you can take the 1 train to South Ferry or the R train to Whitehall Street. The fare is $2.75.
Remember, prices can vary and it’s always a good idea to check the official websites for the most accurate information and to book tickets in advance where possible. After the cruise, taxis are available at the pier or you can take the subway back to your accommodation for $2.75. Rest up for your final day in New York City!
Day 7: Reflection, Exploration, and a Sunset Cruise
Morning: 9/11 Memorial and Museum
Begin your day with a visit to the 9/11 Memorial and Museum. This powerful tribute of remembrance and honor to the nearly 3,000 people killed in the terror attacks of September 11, 2001 is both moving and educational. The museum opens at 9 AM.
What to see: The museum’s collection includes more than 10,000 artifacts, 40,000 digital photos, and a collection of oral histories from survivors and first responders.
Fun Fact: The museum is located at the World Trade Center site, where the Twin Towers once stood.
Transit: The 9/11 Memorial and Museum is located at 180 Greenwich St. You can reach it by taking the A, C, 1, 2, or 3 train to Chambers Street. The fare is $2.75.
Afternoon: Chinatown and Little Italy
Afterwards, explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Chinatown and Little Italy.
What to do: Wander through the bustling streets, visit the local shops, and soak up the rich cultural heritage of these neighborhoods.
Fun Fact: Chinatown in New York City is one of the oldest and largest Chinatowns outside Asia.
Lunch: Try some Dim Sum in Chinatown or a slice of authentic New York-style pizza in Little Italy. Expect to spend around $10-15 per person.
Evening: Staten Island Ferry
End your day with a sunset ferry ride to Staten Island.
What to expect: The Staten Island Ferry offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island. It’s a perfect way to say goodbye to the city.
Fun Fact: The Staten Island Ferry carries over 21 million passengers each year.
Dinner: Once you reach Staten Island, have dinner at Bin 5, a popular spot known for its eclectic menu and cozy atmosphere. Expect to pay around $25-30 for a main course.
Transit: The Staten Island Ferry terminal is accessible via the 1 train to South Ferry or the R train to Whitehall Street. The fare is $2.75.
Remember, prices can vary and it’s always a good idea to check the official websites for the most accurate information. After dinner, take the ferry back to Manhattan and enjoy your final night in the city. Rest up before your journey home in the morning. Safe travels!
Food and Dining
New York City’s food scene is as diverse as its population. Must-try foods include New York-style pizza, bagels, hot dogs from a street vendor, and international cuisines found in neighborhoods like Chinatown and Little Italy. Dining options range from hole-in-the-wall eateries and food trucks to high-end dining establishments. Be sure to also try iconic NYC dessert, the New York cheesecake!
Pizza
For an authentic slice of New York-style pizza, head to Lombardi’s in Little Italy. Established in 1905, it’s known as America’s first pizzeria. You can get a large Margherita for $23.50 or a small for $18.50. Pepperoni, sausage, or mushrooms can be added for an additional cost.
Bagels
Ess-a-Bagel in Midtown East is renowned for its hand-rolled, kettle-boiled bagels. A plain bagel costs around $1.45. If you’re feeling adventurous, try their signature sandwich, “The Works” (Nova Scotia Salmon, cream cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and capers) for $13.95.
Hot Dogs
For a classic NYC hot dog, visit Gray’s Papaya. With locations in Midtown and the Upper West Side, this iconic hot dog stand offers a “Recession Special” (two hot dogs and a drink) for $6.45.
Chinese Food
Joe’s Shanghai in Chinatown is famous for its soup dumplings. You can get an order of 8 pork dumplings for around $8.95 or crab meat with pork dumplings for $13.55.
Italian Food
For Italian food, Carbone in Greenwich Village is a popular choice. It’s a bit on the pricier side, with their famous Spicy Rigatoni Vodka priced at $32.
Cheesecake
For the best New York cheesecake, head to Junior’s. With multiple locations across the city, their original New York Plain Cheesecake starts at $8.25 per slice in the restaurant. You can also buy a whole cheesecake for $21.95.
Fine Dining
For an unforgettable fine dining experience, reserve a table at Eleven Madison Park in Flatiron district – voted one of the best restaurants in the world. Their multi-course tasting menu costs $335 per person, including gratuity.
Remember, prices can vary and it’s always a good idea to check the restaurant’s website or call ahead to confirm prices and make reservations if necessary.
Tips for Travelers
When dining out, tipping is customary in NYC, with 15-20% of the pre-tax bill being standard. For safety, stay in well-lit, busy areas, especially at night. When visiting popular attractions, arrive early to beat the crowds. Consider purchasing a tourist pass like the New York Pass if you plan on visiting multiple attractions, as it can save money.
Conclusion
New York City is a city of endless possibilities with something to offer everyone. From its iconic landmarks to its diverse food scene, the city truly lives up to its reputation as “The City That Never Sleeps”. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, NYC is a city that always has something new to discover. Do you have any NYC travel tips or favorite spots? Share them in the comments below!