4 day travel pass new york

4 days in New York: The Perfect Itinerary (For a First Time Visit)

How to spend 4 days in new york: the best itinerary + where to stay.

You want to spend 4 days in New York and you’re looking for the best things to do?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared for you the perfect itinerary to visit New York in 4 days.

During your trip, you will explore the city’s best places to visit such as the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, Central Park, the vibrant district of Brooklyn , and a lot more!

In addition to the best places to visit and activities for each stage of your itinerary, I will also give you all my best tips and accommodation suggestions depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do in New York in 4 days? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

4 Days in New York: Must-See Attractions:

4 days in new york – all the best places to visit, one last tip for a perfect 4-day stay in new york, a. immersing yourself in central park, b. discover 1 or 2 renowned museums, c. fifth avenue, d. st. patrick’s cathedral, e. top of the rock, f. times square, a. brooklyn district and dumbo, b. brooklyn bridge, c. the iconic statue of liberty and ellis island, d. experience the financial district / wall street / new york stock exchange / charging bull, e. the 9/11 memorial and museum, f. one world observatory, g. culinary adventure in little italy or chinatown, a. intrepid sea, air, and space museum, b. embark on the circle line sightseeing cruise, c. madame tussauds new york, d. new york public library, grand central terminal, chrysler building, and united nations headquarters, e. capture the city lights at the empire state building, f. attend a broadway musical, a. greenwich village, b. chelsea market, c. experience the high line, d. the vessel at hudson yard, e. the edge observation deck, f. enjoy new york’s rooftop bars, where to stay in new york, 4 days in new york with your family, extra suggestions for your 4-day visit to new york, map of your 4-day itinerary in new york, flight prices to new york, you’re traveling in the us these articles will help you, how to avoid waiting in line (and save a lot of time) at new york’s tourist attractions.

With over 56 million visitors annually, there is no doubt that New York City is a major tourist destination.

From its towering skyscrapers to the numerous  museums and activities, the city for sure has a lot to offer!

However, the popularity of attractions like the Empire State Building or Rockefeller Center often leads to extensive waiting lines , costing valuable time during your trip.

But no need to worries: I will now give you 2 solutions to avoid wasting time, save money and make the most of trip to New York City!

1. The New York Go City Explorer Pass

One of the most efficient ways to save time during your 4-day stay in New York is to get the “New York Go City Explorer Pass.”

This pass grants you access to a select number of attractions (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, or 10) based on the option you choose.

Unlike many other city passes, the New York Explorer Pass is not time-bound but is instead based on the number of activities, allowing you more flexibility.

And you know the best? This pass includes more than 90 different activities!

Of course, it includes all the city’s must-see attractions,  from the Empire State Building to the ferry for the Statue of Liberty or the Top of the Rock observation deck .

To purchase the City Pass, it’s really simple: you just need to click on the green button below.

Once your New York Explorer Pass is purchased, you will receive the pass via email, ready to be used during your visit. It’s super convenient!

This email also includes a digital guide, full of essential information to plan your visits to the attractions: opening hours, directions , and whether you need to book a time slot.

Here’s a brief overview of the most popular attractions included in the New York Explorer Pass:

• Empire State Building
• The Statue of Liberty/Ellis Island Ferry
• Top of the Rock
• 9/11 Museum and Memorial
• American Museum of Natural History
• One World Observatory
• Madame Tussauds
• Circle Line Sightseeing
• St Patrick’s Cathedral Tour
• And many more…

To buy your New York Explorer Pass , simply click on the following green button:

While there is another pass called the New York City Pass , it might not be the best choice for a 4-day trip as it only includes 5 attractions.

For a 4-day trip to New York, the New York Explorer Pass with 10 attractions is definitely the best one!

2. Fast Track Tickets to New York’s Best Attractions

Alternatively, if the New York Explorer Pass doesn’t suit your 4-day itinerary, you can purchase individual fast track tickets to each attraction.

Skip-the-line tickets are available for all the major attractions and activities in New York City . Just like the City Pass, they will for sure help you save a lot of time, as you will bypass the waiting lines!

Here are some of the best skip-the-line tickets you should consider for your 4-day stay in New York:

•   Central Park Zoo
• A private tour in Central Park in a horse-drawn carriage
• A pedicab tour in Central Park – choose between the 1 or 2 hours tour version
• Guggenheim Museum
• Metropolitan Museum of Art
• St. Patrick’s Cathedral
• National 9/11 Memorial & Museum
• Wall street guided tour
• Helicopter tour over New York
• Statue of Liberty
• Cruise around the Statue of Liberty
• Walking guided tour in Brooklyn
• Broadway show
• Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum
• Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises
• Madame Tussauds New York
• Edge Observation Deck
• SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
• Harlem guided tour
• Greenwich Village guided tour
• Luna Park in Coney Island

If you want to book other activities in New York, you should always use these 2 reliable and safe websites:

• GetYourGuide: Official entrance tickets and activities in New York .
• Tiqets: Skip the line tickets in New York

If you already know your travel dates (or as soon as you will have them!) , you should really book your accommodation.

As New York is one of the most touristic cities in the world , the hotels offering the best value for money are often fully booked months in advance.

As a seasoned traveler, I can assure you that it’s always by planning as far in advance as possible that I’ve found the best hotels or apartments deals.

You agree that it would be a shame to somewhat ruin your stay in New York by ending up in a not-so-great hotel that costed you a fortune, right? 😅

So your best bet is to take 5 minutes now to have a look at  traveler’s favorite hotels in New York.

And if you like one of the hotels you find, book it!

It’s fast, it’s easy and most accommodation offer free cancellation. That’s the best way to protect yourself from the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the best hotels deals in New York, simply click on the green button below:

After securing your dream stay, it’s time to continue reading this guide!

Visiting New York in 4 days: the best itinerary

Let’s now start your 4-day New York itinerary.

For each day, I will tell you  everything you need to know about the places you will visit  +  give you a map  that will help you visualize the itinerary a bit better.

I’m assuming  you will be staying in New York for 4 full days , and that you have bought the New York Explorer Pass  or  Skip-the-Line Tickets .

It’s  the best way to save time  and see as many tourist attractions as possible during your one week stay!

If you still have questions after reading this guide  (or need help organizing your holiday), don’t hesitate to  ask me in the comments section  located at the very end of this article.

So, what are the best places to visit in New York in 4 days?

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Manhattan

Day 1 visits:

A. Central Park B. Museums C. Fifth Avenue D. St Patrick’s Cathedral E. Top of the Rock F. Times Square

Let’s start your 4-day New York itinerary by going to the world famous Central Park.

New York’s largest public park is the perfect spot for a peaceful stroll or a picnic!

While in Central park, you should go to The Mall and Literary Walk , a charming pathway adorned with statues of famous writers , giving it a unique appeal.

Personally, I also really liked Bethesda Terrace and Fountain , one of the most photographed areas within the park.

Here are other nice places to visit in Central Park:

• Strawberry Fields, the tribute to John Lennon
• The Belvedere Castle
• The Central Park Zoo
• Shakespeare Garden
• The Bow Bridge
• The Alice in Wonderland Statue

To get to Central Park, your best bet is to take the subway to 72nd Street, 81st Street, or 86th Street stations.

For a unique experience of Central Park, here are some alternatives to the conventional walking tour:

• Rent a bike
• Take a horse-drawn carriage ride
• Opt for a pedicab tour

Some of the most prestigious museums in the world are located close to Central Park.

Depending on your personal interests, you might decide to explore the American Museum of Natural History , the Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET) , or the Guggenheim Museum .

Each museum presents a distinctive experience for its visitors.

The American Museum of Natural History is an excellent choice for those fascinated by science, while the Metropolitan Museum of Art exhibits a large variety of artwork from different parts of the globe.

For lovers of modern and contemporary art , the Guggenheim Museum is the perfect choice!

Both the American Museum and the Guggenheim can be visited with the New York Explorer Pass .

For the MET, tickets are available on the official website and for a more in-depth experience, consider booking a guided tour here .

If you don’t have the pass , you should buy your tickets in advance by clicking here:

• The American Museum of Natural History:

Spending your 4 days in New York with family promises a delightful visit for everyone!

• The Guggenheim Museum:

After your visit to one of the best museums for New York, let’s head to Fifth Avenue .

This legendary street, renowned for its luxury retail stores and historical landmarks , is a fantastic place for shopping or indulging in a little bit of leisurely window-shopping.

Fifth Avenue is several kilometers long, running along the entire eastern side of Central Park before continuing to the south of the park.

It’s this stretch that I propose you explore, from the famous Apple store, to the next stop of the day: St Patrick’s Cathedral.

As part of your 4-day itinerary in New York, your next destination should be St. Patrick’s Cathedral , a spectacular piece of Gothic Revival architecture.

Admission to St. Patrick’s Cathedral is included in the New York Explorer Pass, giving you an amazing opportunity to witness the cathedral’s intricate interior and magnificent stained glass.

If you don’t have the pass , you need to buy your tickets by clicking on the link below:

Want to discover one of the best viewpoints of NYC?

For an unforgettable panoramic view of the city, you should now head to Top of the Rock .

Located on the top of the famous Rockefeller Center , this observation deck offers what’s probably the best 360-degree view of New York City.

Admission to the Top of the Rock is included in the New York Go City Explorer Pass.

If you don’t have the pass, you need to purchase your skip-the-line ticket here:

Let’s now end your first day in New York in style by going to the iconic Times Square!

From massive billboards to street performers and a whole lot more, there’s always something happening here.

While there, you should also visit the iconic stores , like the Disney Store and M&M’s World.

Enjoy your evening, have a drink or lunch nearby and most importantly, get a good night’s sleep before starting day 2!

For a great view over Times Square , you should go on the terrace of the Marriott Times Square hotel.

You can get there even if you’re not a client, it’s so big that nobody checks anything.

But don’t tell anyone 🤫

In the same hotel, you can also have a cocktail or eat at the Broadway Lounge : it also offers a great view over New York’s most famous square.

Day 2: Discovering Brooklyn and Downtown Manhattan

The adventure continues! Let’s explore more of what New York City has to offer during your 4-day itinerary .

Day 2 visits:

A. Brooklyn district and DUMBO B. Brooklyn Bridge C. Statue of Liberty D. Financial district E. 9/11 Memorial and museum F. One World Observatory G. Little Italy and Chinatown

On the second day of your New York trip, you will start by going to explore Brooklyn, one of the city’s most famous borough.

Kick off the day in the fashionable DUMBO neighborhood (an acronym for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass).

While in DUMBO, don’t miss the opportunity to capture your version of the famous photo of the red bricks buildings with the Manhattan Bridge serving as a spectacular backdrop.

To really immerse yourself in the district and uncover the secrets of Brooklyn , consider getting a local guide. You can book this walking tour (click here) for a great experience!

To reach Brooklyn, you should take the subway and disembark at York Street station.

Let’s continue your 4-day New York itinerary by crossing the famous Brooklyn Bridge on foot!

This architectural marvel has been a city icon since 1883, linking Manhattan and Brooklyn over the East River. Characterized by its Gothic arches and intricate cables, it’s undeniably one of NYC’s top photo spots.

As you walk across this almost 2km long bridge , you can enjoy beautiful views of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and the Freedom Tower (also called One World Trade Center).

Did you know that the Brooklyn Bridge holds the title of being the world’s first steel-wire suspension bridge? And upon its unveiling, it was also the longest suspension bridge.

It’s now time to go to Battery Park and board a ferry to two of the most significant American landmarks – the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

If you don’t want to walk all the way to Battery Park (about 1h30), you can take the metro line 4 at Brooklyn Bridge – City Hall station , after crossing the Brooklyn bridge and hop-off at Bowling Green station.

Once in Battery Park, you should know that your New York Explorer Pass comes with a round-trip ferry ticket, allowing you to visit both the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

I f you don’t have this City Pass , you need to book your tickets here:

You don’t have to land on the island where the Statue of Liberty or Ellis Island is located. Instead, you can opt for a one-hour boat tour that passes the foot of the statue but doesn’t stop. It’s up to you to decide which you prefer!

If you opt for the short cruise around the statue (which is not included in the pass), you must book it directly using the button below:

To take your New York experience to an even greater height, you should opt for an unforgettable helicopter tour over the city!

Departing just 200 meters away from Battery Park , it’s a convenient addition to your day’s itinerary.

Whether you choose to go before or after your trip to the Statue of Liberty, it’s bound to be a thrilling experience.

You can opt for the classic tour ( click here to book your tour ) or choose to go for the sensational open-door version! Personally, I opted for the open door version and it was simply the best experience I had in New York!

To secure your seat on this once-in-a-lifetime experience during your 4-day trip to New York, you just need to click on the button below:

Once back on dry land, you should head to New York’s financial district .

Walk along the iconic Wall Street, where fortunes are made (and sometimes lost) at the New York Stock Exchange .

You can also visit the famous statue of a charging bull. Legend has it that if you touch its horns or private parts, you’ll become rich. .. If you believe in this and are prepared to queue up for it, don’t hesitate!

Just a short walk from the hustle of Wall Street, you’ll find the 9/11 Memorial and Museum .

This moving tribute to the victims of the 9/11 terrorist attacks is an essential stop during your visit to New York.

The two large reflecting pools in the footprints of the Twin Towers are a powerful sight, and you should absolutely visit the museum to understand more about that tragic day.

The visit of the National 9/11 memorial and museum is free with the New York Explorer Pass.

Without the pass, you need to book your tickets for the museum here:

If you prefer, you can also take a 90-minute guided walk around Ground Zero and the 9/11 Memorial. Book it here!

To Wrap up your day, you should visit the One World Observatory .

Perched atop the One World Trade Center , which holds the record for the tallest building in the USA, the One World Observatory is one of the best viewpoints of New York.

And it’s not just about the view: The elevator ride itself is worth mentioning, thanks to the short film showcasing New York City’s evolution over the years. Pretty interesting!

Remember, your New York Go City Explorer Pass gets you free entry to the One World Observatory.

And if you don’t have the City Pass , simply click on the green button below to purchase your tickets to the One World Observatory: 

No doubt, by this time, you will start getting hungry.

So what about grabbing into an authentic meal in Little Italy or Chinatown?

Sounds like a great plan, right? 😄

Depending on your tastes, lets opt for some great pasta or dim sum in one of these vibrant neighborhoods.

In Little Italy, make sure you try the cannoli, a delicious Sicilian dessert. It’s an Italian classic you simply can’t miss!

And when in Chinatown, the Peking Duck is an absolute must-try. It’s a personal favorite and a truly unforgettable treat!

With this, you’ve successfully wrapped up your second day in the city that never sleeps.

Day 3: What to do in New York?

Day 3 visits:

A. Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum B. Circle line Sightseeing cruise C. Madame Tussauds D. New York Public Library / Grand Central Terminal / Chrysler Building / United Nation Headquarters E. Empire State Building F. See a musical on Broadway

To start the 3rd day of your 4-day stay in New York, head straight to the Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum .

There, you will step aboard a historic aircraft carrier , a unique opportunity you shouldn’t miss during your New York visit!

I admit that this museum is my favorite of the city. I really loved to explore the aircraft carrier, see a Concorde , a Lockheed A-12  and even a space shuttle!

Don’t forget, the New York Explorer Pass offers free admission to the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum .

And if you don’t have the pass, you need to book your tickets in advance here:

The nearest subway station to the museum is 50 Street Station , just a 15-minute walk away.

Next, it’s time to hop on a boat for the Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise .

This is your chance to appreciate New York’s most emblematic landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the iconic skyscrapers of Manhattan from a another vantage point.

Don’t worry if you’ve already taken the Statue of Liberty cruise. This tour is far more comprehensive , introducing you to additional locations .

Best of all, it’s included with the New York Explorer Pass , so it doesn’t affect your budget.

If you’re don’t have the city pass , you need to book your cruise ticket here:

Have you ever dreamed about spending time with your favorite celebrities?

At Madame Tussauds New York , your dreams can come to life!

Okay, the celebrities here are made of wax, but that doesn’t make the experience any less thrilling!

Take advantage of this unique chance to stand next to your idols , and snap memorable photos with famous actors, singers and celebrities such as Brad Pitt, Rihanna, Beyoncé, or George Clooney.

Good news! Admission to Madame Tussauds is free with the New York Go City Explorer Pass.

You don’t have the pass? No worries, you can easily get your tickets to Madame Tussauds here:

After your visit to Madame Tussauds, let’s now discover the architectural and historical grandeur of the Big Apple.

You should start with the New York Public Library , famous for its splendid architecture. Don’t miss the Rose Main Reading Room!

Then, go to the Grand Central Terminal.

Even if you’re not catching a train, the most iconic train station in the US is still worth a visit!

Then, it’s time to head to the Chrysler Building, an art-deco masterpiece. While you can’t go inside, just seeing the building from the outside is already very impressive.

To end your tour, you can visit the United Nations Headquarters . If you wish to, you can hop on a guided tour that will give you insights into how the UN operates.

Just before sunset, make your way to the iconic Empire State Building .

Take my word for it, you don’t want to miss the chance to admire the panorama of New York from the 102nd floor of the Empire State!

To ensure your visit to the Empire State Building, it’s critical to secure your tickets in advance from here:

And if you have the New York Explorer Pass , no need to purchase anything: entrance to the Empire State Building is included!

To wrap up your day, you should go see a musical on Broadway!

You can opt for a classic such as “The Phantom of the Opera” or “The Lion King” or a new hit like “Hamilton” ,

Even if you’re a novice to theater, you’ll discover the unique allure of narratives unraveling on the grand Broadway stage.

Don’t forget to secure your Broadway tickets beforehand. High-demand shows, like The Lion King, are often sold out well in advance.

You can find all tickets available for Broadway shows by clicking here!

No matter which show you choose, it’s a great way to end your 3rd day in New York, right?

Day 4: Exploring Artistic Corners + The Best Rooftops of NYC

Day 4 visits:

A. Greenwich Village B. Chelsea Market C. High Line D. The Vessel E. The Edge F. Rooftop bars

Your 4th day in NYC starts in Greenwich Village , an area know for its artsy side and historical significance.

As you navigate its green-laden streets , don’t forget to check its eccentric boutiques or enjoy a good breakfast at a contemporary cafe.

To make the most of your visit to Greenwich Village , you should book this guided 2-hour tour.

If you’re a fan of “Friends” TV series , you get a chance to:

• Stop by the famous Friends apartment building situated on the corner of Grove Street and Bedford Street.
• Immerse yourself in the Friends TV show like never before by going to the Friends Experience where the sets of Rachel, Ross, Monica, Chandler, Joey and Phoebe’s flats are recreated. Be sure to book your tickets as early as possible because they sell out rapidly! You need to book your tickets here.

Around lunch time, let’s head to your next foodie adventure, in Chelsea Market.

This market is home to over 35 vendors offering a variety of international cuisines, ready to introduce you to different flavors from around the world.

To digest, what better way to continue the day than with a stroll along the High Line.

This elevated park, formerly a railroad track , offers a lovely view of the city skyline and the Hudson River.

The next stop is The Vessel at Hudson Yard (if you follow the High Line, you’ll get there straight away), a remarkable sculpture comprising 154 flights of interconnected staircases, or some 2,500 steps.

Unfortunately, for security reasons, it is currently impossible to use the staircases, but access to the first floor is free and allows you to admire the building’s originality.

Continue your 4-day itinerary in New York with a trip to one of the city’s newest additions: the Edge Observation Deck.

Rising to an impressive 345m, the Edge holds the title for the highest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere! The skyscrapers of the city will appear like a child’s playset from this vantage point.

When you reach the Edge, you’ll find a spacious outdoor viewing platform that offers unparalleled 360-degree views of the New York City skyline , the Hudson and East Rivers and the sea.

But the Edge has another trick up its sleeve – the glass floor! A 225-square-foot part of the deck lets you peer straight down onto the streets below.

Visit the Edge for free with the New York Go City Explorer Pass. If you don’t have the city Pass, you need to book your Edge tickets here!

As daylight fades, it’s time to unwind with a well-earned drink!

Known for its superb rooftop bars , New York provides plenty of options. Here are my favorite ones:

• The 230 FIFTH Rooftop Bar NYC with its amazing Empire State Building views.
• The Westlight at The William Vale , for a panoramic view over Manhattan and Brooklyn ,
• The Rooftop at The Standard, High Line and The Press Lounge both offer breathtaking cityscapes paired with an exquisite drink menu.

Remember, these rooftop bars can get packed, especially during the golden hours of sunset. So, it’s a good idea to arrive early to secure the best spot or book ahead if possible.

Now that you know what to do during your 4-day itinerary in New York , it’s time for the next step in planning your unforgettable trip: booking your accommodation!

As you probably know, hotels are quite expensive in New York , and the hotels offering the best value for money are fully booked very quickly.

To get the best rate, you should really book your accommodation in New York as soon as you have your travel dates!

Here is my selection of the best hotels to stay in the heart of New York (around Times Square / Empire State Building / Central Park).

• HI New York City Hostel : Youth hostel located right next to Central Park. Dormitory beds from €50 per night. An excellent choice for cheap accommodation in New York City Center!
• Club Wyndham Midtown 45: Located next to Grand Central Station. Bright and spacious double room from €200 per night. Strong Points: the rooftop and the location.
• Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott New York Manhattan/Times Square South: Located 1 km from Times Square. Cosy, comfortable double rooms from €330 per night, including breakfast. Strong points: friendly staff, view, peace and quiet.
• Hyatt Place New York City/Times Square: Located next to Madame Tussauds. Double room with impeccable cleanliness and comfortable bedding from €350, breakfast included. Strong points: central location for visiting New York on foot, very generous breakfast, very friendly staff.
• The Iroquois New York: Located less than 500 metres from Times Square, this 5-star hotel offers superb rooms with very chic decor, from €410 including breakfast. Strong points: ideal, quiet location, attentive staff.
• Riu Plaza Manhattan Times Square: Located next to the Rockfeller Center. Very comfortable, noise-isolated room from €450, breakfast €23. Strong points: very professional staff, varied breakfast, very easy to visit the centre of New York on foot.
• Hard Rock Hotel New York: Located next to the Rockfeller Center, this luxury hotel offers elegant, contemporary rooms from €500, breakfast €47. Strong points: the rooftop, the comfort, the classy design. This is my recommendation for a luxury stay in New York!

If you don’t mind being a bit further from the centre (don’t worry, it’s still very easily accessible by public transport), here is my list of the best hotels in Wall Street.

It’s a bit quieter than the hotels in Times Square and also slightly less expensive for equivalent quality.

• Hilton Garden Inn NYC Financial Center/Manhattan Downtown: Located 160 metres from Battery Park. Comfortable, modern rooms from €225, breakfast €23. Strong points: the location close to the metro, very comfortable, practical for going to the Statue of Liberty and Staten Island.
• The Washington by LuxUrban: Located 200 metres from the 9/11 Memorial and museum. Stylish rooms from €240, breakfast included. Strong points: metro stations right next to the hotel – perfect for sightseeing, view of the One World Trade Center, quality of bedding, peace and quiet.
• Club Quarters Hotel World Trade Center: Located next to Ground Zero. Spacious and cosy double room from €330. Strong points: location next to several metro stations, views from the rooftop and some rooms, free unlimited water and coffee/tea, in-room fridge.

To help you find the perfect accommodation, I have also written a guide of the best areas and places to stay in New York depending on your budget.

You can find it here: Where to stay in New York?

You’re traveling to New York with kids?

This suggested 4-day New York itinerary is entirely family-friendly.

Use the metro for longer distances and enjoy leisurely walks around the city’s iconic landmarks!

Here’s a list of enjoyable and kid-approved activities to include in your 4-day family trip to New York:

• Central Park Zoo: A visit to this zoo offers a chance to see a wide range of animals, from snow leopards to grizzly bears, keeping the young ones engaged.
• American Museum of Natural History: With its dinosaur fossils, a massive blue whale model, and a planetarium, this museum is a feast for curious young minds.
• The legendary toy store, FAO Schwarz , is a place where childhood dreams come to life. Its giant floor piano and countless toys will captivate both kids and adults.
• Don’t forget to check out the M&M and Disney’s stores in Times Square and the Lego’s store on Fifth Avenue for a dose of colorful fun.
• Take a Ferry to the Statue of Liberty: A symbol of freedom and hope, the Statue of Liberty is an impressive sight for all ages.
• Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum: Simply my favorite museum in New York. Kids love it too!
• Attend a Broadway Show: Choose from kid-friendly productions like ‘The Lion King’, ‘Frozen’, or ‘Aladdin’ for an unforgettable theatre experience!

Incorporating these kid-friendly attractions will ensure that your 4 days in New York are a hit with the whole family.

The New York Explorer Pass offers discounted rates for children , depending on their age.

For even more ideas of things to do and see in New York, you can read my other detailed guide: The 57 best things to do in New York.

To help you visualize your  daily itineraries during your 4 days in New York,  I have created this map with  all the places to visit day by day . You can view the map’s legend by clicking on the top left button, the one with a little arrow.

You can thus see the suggested itineraries for each day.

As always, you should book your plane tickets as early as possible to get the best prices.

To check the rates and schedules for flights to New York, you can use our flight comparator, in partnership with Skyscanner:

You need help to plan your 4-day trip to New York? Don’t hesitate to ask me in the comment section located below!

Discover all my articles about USA : All my articles to help you plan your trip to USA are listed there.

• New York: Top 57 best things to do
• 2 Days in New York – The best itinerary to visit the Big Apple in 48h
• 3 Days in New York – All the best places to visit + Detailed itinerary

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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The Perfect 4 Day Itinerary for New York City

What to do in nyc in 4 days.

It can be overwhelming trying to create a 4-day itinerary in NYC. If you’re wondering if and how you can do New York in 4 days, you’ll find the answer here! I’ll show you how to spend 4 perfect days in New York City with my experience of more than 20 visits to my favorite city. And that without stress, with restaurant tips and the most important sights and most interesting neighborhoods.

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• 3 Day Itinerary for NYC
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So, I have created the following 4 Day Itinerary NYC to make it easier for you. Feel free to use it as is or customize as you’d like – either way, we hope it helps!

This is the best 4 day itinerary for New York City:

Table of Contents

4 Day Itinerary NYC  Day 1 : Theatre District & Midtown

New York City’s Theatre District is the neighborhood where most Broadway theatres are found in Midtown West. West 54th Street bounds this area to the north, West 40th Street to the south, Eighth Ave to the west, and Sixth Avenue to the east.

Here you’ll find many theaters, hotels, restaurants, and other entertainment venues, as well as Times Square. There’s really no better part of the city to begin your 4- day trip , so let’s take a look a look at what to do in NYC’s Theatre District and Midtown on your first day:

Times Square

As we mentioned, this is the New York City neighborhood where Times Square is located. And even if you’ve never been to NYC, you should already know this is a bustling place. The best part is that there are plenty of things to see and do regardless of whether you go to Times Square during the day or night.  

If you’re looking for activities to do in Times Square, check out Madame Tussauds and National Geographic’s Ocean Odyssey. Or you can simply people-watch or meet someone dressed up as your favorite character – just don’t forget that if you take photos of these characters or interact with them, they’ll expect to be paid.  

When it comes time to eat in Times Square, try the best tacos in America at Los Tacos No. 1. , a slice of authentic NY pizza at Patzeria’s, or choose from hundreds of options at the 24-hour Times Square Diner. If you want something more upscale, head on over to Aureole , Carmine’s, or the Hunt & Fish Club .  

BIG BUS: Get a quick overview of Manhattan

NYC is home to many hop-on, hop-off bus tours offered by Big Bus. So, once it’s time to leave Times Square and move on, get on one of these buses and ride to the next location. Thanks to onboard commentary, this is a great way to see and get to know the area. Not to mention, it’s a nice reprieve if you’re not used to walking so many miles per day.  

Bryant Park

For the next stop on day 1, we have Bryant Park. It’s a charming little gem found right behind the New York Public Library. Bryant Park makes you think you’ve left NYC and entered Paris, and it makes a wonderful place to read a book, enjoy a picnic, or just rest your feet for a few minutes.  

Grand Central Terminal

Grand Central Terminal is just as beautiful and busy as you would expect. Sure, you’ve probably seen it featured in countless shows and movies over the years, but seeing it is believing, as the television does not capture the stunning beauty of the building’s turquoise ceiling or the sheer number of people who travel through here daily.  

Anytime you’re near Grand Central, be sure to stop at Sarge’s Delicatessen & Diner for an authentic, inexpensive breakfast or brunch. If you’re in a hurry, grab a quick bite at Bagel Express; their food is simple, tasty, and affordable.  

One Vanderbilt The Summit

Summit One Vanderbilt is NYC’s newest attraction that recently opened in October 2021. The building altered the look of the city’s skyline, which provides guests with a whole new experience.  

Summit One features a deck, mirrored rooms, and the world’s tallest rack-and-pinion elevator system that features cars that are 90 square feet each, which makes them the world’s largest glass floor elevators!

There are several different packages to choose from, and the one you choose decides how much of the experience you get to enjoy. For example, the Summit Experience allows you access to all 4 floors, and you can step into glass skyboxes that sit 1,000 feet over Midtown below.  

Alternatively, you can choose the Summit Ascent package, which includes access to the entire experience and the glass elevators at their highest point. This is a must-see attraction for anyone looking for the best views of NYC and should definitely be a part of your first day.  

This is perhaps the most famous and expensive street in all of New York City – 5th Avenue or as it’s commonly called “Millionaire’s Row.” This road stretches the entire length of Manhattan both north and south.  

Regardless of whether you buy anything or not, 5th Avenue should be on your itinerary. There’s something about marveling at the most expensive retail space in the world, and it almost makes you feel as if you’re on Ginza in Tokyo or Champs-Elysees in Paris.  

The best shopping areas are found closest to Central Park, where you’ll find stores such as Cartier and Armani. You’ll also find the famous NYC Apple store, where they offer laptops and free internet access.  

Another great thing about exploring 5th Avenue is that you’ll find the Empire State Building, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and many museums.  

Empire State Building

Speaking of the Empire State Building, this is the next stop on your first-ever trip to NYC. Completed in 1931 as the world’s tallest building, this 102-story skyscraper symbolizes the resilience and hope of NYC and its people. Today, the building is used primarily for office space, but it is also home to two observation decks and many unique exhibits.  

You have a few options for how you can enjoy this iconic building. First, you can travel to the main observation deck at the 86th Floor Observatory. This is the city’s most famed open-air observatory, where you’ll enjoy 360-degree views of the city.  

For those who want to see even better breathtaking views, check out the 102nd Floor Observatory, where you’ll find floor-to-ceiling views that can extend up to 80 miles on clear days. Regardless of whether you go inside, it’s still a legendary building to see in person.  

The Perfect Itinerary For Your New York Trip

This itinerary contains over 50 spots and highlights of the city, including a map that shows you the best way to travel each day, taking you to or past the many big attractions. In addition, we‘ve added our favorite places, from great breakfast spots to start your day right to small bars and restaurants and hidden insider spots.

What awaits you here now is the perfect New York week, because this is what my itinerary would look like if I were visiting the Big Apple for the first or second time right now!

4 Day Itinerary NYC  Day 2 : Hudson Yards, Chelsea, Meatpacking District

On day 2 of this 4 Day Itinerary NYC, you’ll explore the Meatpacking District, Chelsea, and Hudson Yards, which are all located in Midtown Manhattan . At one time, this was Manhattan’s hub of industry, but in recent times it has become one of the most cultivated cultural neighborhoods in NYC.  

Chelsea is on downtown Manhattan’s west side and is an expensive area with many things to do, such as historical sights, off-Broadway theatre, dining, and more. This area also encompasses the ultra-chic Meatpacking District , where you’ll find posh nightlife, fine dining, and luxury shopping.  

Chelsea is adored by art fans and is well-known for its concentration of galleries. Tourists love these neighborhoods because it’s very walkable and still an up-and-coming section of New York City. Now, let’s take a look at what your second day in NYC has in store for you!

Circle Line - Best of NYC Cruise

The best way to start your second day in New York City is by hopping aboard the Best of NYC Cruise offered by Circle Line. This is the only sightseeing cruise that goes completely around Manhattan, which means you get to see all of NYC’s most iconic landmarks from the comfort of a boat in under three hours!

Landmarks you can expect to see along this cruise are the Statue of Liberty, High Line, Ellis Island, Chrysler Building, Empire State Building, Gracie Mansion, Yankee Stadium, and much more. And the best part is that award-winning tour guides narrate each Best of NYC Cruises, so you’ll learn every significant detail during the trip.  

Explore Hudson Yards

Hudson Yards is one of the most exciting places to visit in New York City, especially if you only have 4 days on the itinerary. It’s home to two of the most photographable places in NYC, so you’ll want to buy tickets for both the Vessel and Edge .  

The Vessel is a honeycomb-shaped building that features 154 floors and sits in the center of Hudson Yards. Climb to the top and take in the views of the Hudson River, or take advantage of all the photo opportunities on the ground. You should know that if you plan to climb this structure, you have to buy tickets, and it’s definitely worth buying them online. Also, they only allow groups of two up at a time (one additional information: right now the Vessel is closed).

Bonus Tip: If you visit NYC around the holidays, Hudson Yards puts on a fantastic light display that you shouldn’t miss!

The Edge Observation Deck

As you’re walking north in Hudson Yards, you’ll notice an eye-catching building that’s made of glass and has a triangular-shaped platform coming from the top. If you take our advice and buy tickets to this attraction, you’ll be standing on that triangle very soon.  

As you walk inside of Hudson Yards’ central shopping mall, it may remind you of Singapore or Dubai with the upmarket feel and pristine finish. Keep moving to the fourth floor, as this is where you’ll find the entrance for Edge. Outside of the attraction, many neat exhibits teach visitors about renewable energy and how waste and air filtration work inside the building.  

The elevator ride that carries you from the fourth floor to the 100th is really exhilarating and a favorite of many people, as it’s like no other experience. Upon reaching the top of Edge, you are met with breathtaking views that are even better during sunset.  

After you finish here, be sure to walk up to 34th Street, past Penn Station, and see the famous NYC Macy’s store! At this point of day two, you may be ready for a meal. If so, check out places such as the Backyard Cafe at Hudson Yards, Wild Ink, Whitmans, The Tavern, or one of many eateries at the Chelsea Market.  

After you’ve had a bite to eat, head on over to the High Line, this is a fan favorite and offers some of the most beautiful views of the local area. Essentially, the High Line is an abandoned railroad track that’s been turned into an urban walkway and park. There are few other places in the world where you can experience such a mixed and improbable use of space – who builds a garden in the sky?

The High Line is an excellent place to take a stroll and see nature. The entire hike is about a mile and a half, but you don’t have to walk the entire way; just be sure to spend time enjoying the art and views.  

Meatpacking District

NYC’s Meatpacking District is a trendy commercial area located on the far west side between the West Village and Chelsea . In this section of NYC, you’ll find luxury designer clothing stores, a portion of the High Line, the Whitney Museum of American Art, and more!  

The cobblestone streets are lined with hip clubs and restaurants that have recently taken over the enormous spaces that once used to be home to none other than meat packaging facilities. So, take advantage of places such as Plunge Rooftop Bar and Lounge , Brass Monkey NYC , and the Famous Sky Bridge .  

Pier 54 - Little Island

Little Island is one of NYC’s newest attractions and is very special, as it’s a park built in the Hudson River atop 132 gorgeous tulip-shaped concrete stilts. It’s located at Pier 54 in Hudson River Park and is easily accessible via the High Line.  

This is a great stop for your second day in New York City because it’s designed with walking paths, gentle trees, and over 35 different species of trees, so it’s a true oasis in the middle of a concrete jungle. The highlight of Little Island Park is the amphitheater built next to the water, and there are also art exhibits and event spaces.  

Visit a Broadway Shows

As your second day comes to an end, grab some dinner at Dos Caminos , Catch NYC, RH Rooftop Restaurant, or Serafina Meatpacking and then make your way to take in a Broadway show. Even if this isn’t usually your scene, you are in New York City and the home of Broadway, so don’t miss out.  

It is worth mentioning that Broadway Shows can be expensive, but the experience is unforgettable. So, plan for this and try to book tickets in advance as they may be cheaper. Some popular shows right now include Hamilton , Wicked , Lion King , and more.

Recommended: These are the best broadway shows in NYC

4 Day Itinerary NYC  Day 3 : Financial District, DUMBO in Brooklyn

Welcome to your third day in NYC! Today you’ll experience New York City’s Financial District and DUMBO/Brooklyn. The city’s bustling financial heart is home to many glittering skyscrapers and Wall Street. During the workweek and evenings, the sidewalks are busy with young professionals working and filling the bars and restaurants of Stone Street and South Street Seaport.  

Once you get into DUMBO/Brooklyn, you’ll be surrounded by warehouses that have been converted into high-end restaurants, independent boutiques, and trendy cafes. On the north end, you’ll find Jane’s Carousel and on the waterfront is a former tobacco factory converted into a gallery and performance scene.  

Days 1 and 2 were busy, but day 3 has even more in store for you; be sure to drink lots of coffee in the morning and get started early! It’s probably best to grab a quick bite to eat, such as a bagel or donuts. So, let’s look at day 3 of our 4 Day Itinerary NYC:  

Battery Park

Many people know this park at the southernmost tip of Manhattan as a landing and/or departure point of the Staten Island Ferry (a free crossing enables a sensational view to the skyline). Battery Park is one of the oldest public parks in New York and is of historical importance for New York: the first Dutch settlers are said to have arrived here when they founded New Amsterdam.

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island (Ferry & Stop)

No trip to NYC is complete without stopping at the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, and this is especially true if it’s your first time visiting the city. However, as you would imagine, this is a top-rated destination, so it can take a good chunk of your day if you don’t plan properly. For this reason, we strongly recommend that you take the first ferry over to the island in the morning. Not only will this shorten the time it takes to visit Lady Liberty, but you’ll be on Liberty Island with just one group of people. Also, keep in mind that buying a ticket to the attraction is the only way you’re allowed to set foot on Liberty Island.  

After you’ve seen everything there is to see on Liberty Island, hop back on the ferry. It stops on Ellis Island before making its way back to Manhattan. To get the most from this experience, be sure to get off the ferry and check out the National Museum of Immigration on Ellis Island. Yet, only do this if you are a quick explorer or very interested because there is a lot of ground to cover today!

One World Observatory

NYC has a million things to experience, but there’s only one way to see all of them at once. Your journey begins as you hop aboard a SkyPod in One World Trade Center, which travels 102 floors in just 47 seconds until you are transported to the top of the Western Hemisphere’s tallest building.  

After arriving 102 stories high, you find yourself face-to-face with one of the world’s most iconic skylines. Even if you’ve seen the city millions of times, you’ve never seen it quite like this! The Observatory consists of three massive levels where you’ll discover lots of surprises along the way.  

If you are hungry, be sure to stop by the cafe for a delicious bite to eat. Then step onto the Sky Portal and wander high above the crowds below. Finally, go on an interactive tour of NYC with the assistance of a Skyline Concierge who can answer questions and inform you about the city’s long and storied history. Before you leave, don’t forget to stop by One Mix Bar for a glass of Prosecco and one last look at the Earth’s bend before setting off to your next attraction.  

9/11 Memorial and Museum

Though most of our 4 Day Itinerary NYC focuses on the fun and lively side of the city, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum remind us that some of the city’s most crucial parts of history are very dark.  

The Twin Towers used to stand in NYC’s Financial District on Manhattan’s southern tip, but today you’ll find the 9/11 Memorial in their place. The memorial is evocative and free to see, but if you feel up to it (as this is a very powerful and emotional experience), you should consider visiting the museum as well. Yet, regardless of whether you go into the museum or not, the 9/11 Memorial should be part of your 4 day NYC trip.  

Wall Street

Wall Street covers eight city blocks in the Financial District of Lower Manhattan. It runs between the East River in the east to Broadway in the west over to South Street and is the second most famous street besides Broadway.  

Exploring this area can be tricky, but it is a lot of fun. Begin by finding the New York Stock Exchange at the corner of Broadway and Wall Street. Though you can no longer go inside, seeing the building is something special itself. Also, be sure to take advantage of the photo op with the famed charging bull statue!  

Other activities to partake in this area include Battery Park, Trinity Church, Federal Hall, and Stone Street. If you’re hungry when on Wall Street, try out places such as Neapolitan Express, SkyCafe, or one of the many food trucks you’ll find in the area.  

South Street Seaport

As you move south along Wall Street, keep an eye out for South Street Seaport. This section of the neighborhood is located right on the edge of the Financial District and is a lively part of town that’s spent the last several years rebuilding after Hurricane Sandy.  

When you visit the seaport, you can enjoy live music, learn the local history, or grab some food at the Fulton farmer’s market. This area is only a short, 15-minute walk from the stock exchange and makes for the best excuse to rest your feet near the water.  

Brooklyn Bridge

After you’ve seen everything in the Financial District, it’s time to head over the famed Brooklyn Bridge. Of course, you can take a taxi or rideshare across the bridge to make the trip shorter, but if you feel up to it, you can also walk across. The bridge is just over one mile long, and you can even take a guided tour!

DUMBO & Brooklyn Heights

After crossing the Brooklyn Bridge, you’ll find that Brooklyn is home to some of NYC’s most exciting neighborhoods and sites. One that’s gained a lot of attention and adoration is DUMBO, which could also be partly due to its catchy name.  

This waterfront neighborhood has a fascinating and rich history and many activities for visitors to enjoy. Not only is DUMBO a premier art district, but there are also lots of great places to eat, such as Grimaldi’s Pizza , The River Cafe, Jacques Torres chocolate factory, Butler Bakery , and more. Are you looking for shopping? Be sure to check out the newly renovated Empire Stores on Water Street.

Circle Line - Harbor Lights Night Cruise

Finish out your third day in New York City with the Harbor Lights Cruise. Hop aboard one of Circle Line’s state-of-the-art boats and take in the views of NYC twinkling at night. This unforgettable experience lasts about two hours, and you’ll see landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, and more.  

Just make sure your camera is ready because you’ll be mere yards away from some of the best photos of your life. And don’t worry; you won’t miss a thing because there will be an award-winning tour guide narrating the City’s story. So, sit back, relax, and take some amazing photos while creating memories that will last forever.  

4 Day Itinerary NYC  Day 4 : Upper West Side, Midtown, SoHo, Little Italy

Finally, for day 4 of our 4 Day Itinerary NYC, you’ll spend the last day of your trip touring the Upper West Side , Midtown, SoHo, and Little Italy. And just when you thought your vacation wouldn’t get any better, we’re rounding the trip off with some laid-back activities that will help you wind down from the past several exciting days.  

Let’s see what these areas of NYC have in store for you on day number four:  

Central Park

You probably thought we forgot about Central Park, but you know the saying – saving the best for last! Central Park is a masterpiece that Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux created. Though the park has gone through extensive restorations over time, the initial purpose of acting as an open-air oasis amid a large, metropolitan city has always stayed the same.  

This national landmark is a must-visit attraction regardless of what season you visit or why you’re visiting. This park has something for folks of all ages, from horse and carriage rides and bike rentals to the Central Park Zoo and activities such as ice skating and Strawberry Fields.  

American Museum of Natural History

After finishing up at Central Park, you may want to stop at one of the many local restaurants such as the Loeb Boathouse, Tavern On The Green, or Maoz Vegetarian and make your way to the American Museum of Natural History.  

This museum is the world’s largest natural history museum, as it spans 4 city blocks and encompasses 25 interconnected buildings. Even if you’re not a fan of museums, this one is a must! It’s home to over 34 million specimens of animals, plants, fossils, human remains, rocks, minerals, meteorites, and human cultural artifacts. Though keep in mind that only a fraction of the museum’s artifacts are on show at any given time.  

Visit the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) ...

The next stop on our list is the MoMA, or Museum of Modern Art. This art museum is located in Midtown Manhattan on 53rd between Fifth and Sixth Avenues. MoMA plays a significant role in the development and collection of modern art. It’s often referred to as the world’s largest and most influential museum for modern art. And there’s no wonder considering that the MoMA features five floors of art. So, take as much time as you’d like to explore the exhibits and collections before moving on.  

... or the Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met), or both!

We hope you’re not tired of seeing beautiful art because your next stop is the Met. New York City’s Metropolitan Museum of Art is the United States’ largest art museum that controls a permanent collection of over two million works divided into 17 different departments.  

Seeing over two million pieces of art could take days by itself. So, it’s highly recommended that you plan for this part of your trip and already know what you want to see. At the very least, be sure to find Van Gogh, Hatshepsut Seated, the Temple of Dendur, and the Greek and Roman Statue Court.  

Discover the neighborhoods of SoHo, The Village and Little Italy

SoHo is an upscale residential and high-end shopping area where you’ll enjoy some of NYC’s best people-watching. Stroll up and down the area’s cobblestoned streets , admiring the rows of shops and houses. If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, be sure to stop by the Dominique Ansel Bakery and order one of the legendary Cronuts.  

If you’re in the mood to keep walking, you can continue on to West Village or Greenwich Village . If not, find a posh SoHo restaurant and enjoy some food. Some of the best places to eat in Soho include Antique Garage, Blue Ribbon Brasserie, and Dig.  

On day 4 of our 4 Day Itinerary NYC, your final stop is Little Italy. The best part is that if you’re not in the mood for trendy SoHo food, Little Italy is the quintessential dining spot ! You’ll find local favorites such as Lombardi’s Pizza, Onieal’s, and Angelo’s of Mulberry Street .  

Yet, Little Italy is so much more than just an excellent place to eat. This area is also home to many historic landmarks, street art, gorgeous architecture, mafia locations, TV and movie locations, and the perfect place to find upscale consignment shops!

4 Days NYC Itinerary

Planning for your first trip to Manhattan can be overwhelming yet exciting. Relieve some of your stress and refer to our 4 Day Itinerary NYC and create the trip of a lifetime!

Just don’t forget to invest in the New York Pass for 4 Days and pack comfortable shoes!

Helpful Tips for Visiting NYC in 4 Days

If it’s your first time visiting NYC, then you may not know some insider secrets that will save you time and money! So, we thought we’d share a few of our own:

Invest in the New York Pass for 4 Days

And just as you’d expect, most of the popular tourist attractions in NYC charge an entry fee, and when you’re paying for yourself and other family members or friends, those costs will add up quickly. However, when you have the New York Pass, it provides you with access to these places, and it’s far cheaper than buying tickets at the door.

Get New York Pass now

or check out our ultimate New York Pass Comparison .

Are 4 days in New York City enough?

I think 4 days for New York is great, because you have more time than if you only visit the Big Apple for a weekend. Of course 5 days, 1 week or even 10 days are even better! In the 4 days NYC as in our itinerary you experience the most important neighborhoods and attractions of the city – and that quite relaxed!

Is $1000 enough for 4 days in New York?

Yes! Because if you know how, you can save a lot of money in NYC! First of all, check out the different sightseeing passes for New York . You can easily save 50% on admission to the best attractions in NYC.

In addition, I recommend my hotel finder for New York . It shows you the best hotels in NYC for every budget . They are proof that good hotels in New York don’t have to be expensive. Another budget tip are the food markets of NYC . Here you can eat very tasty and at relatively good prices. I love them!

What should I pack for 4 days in New York?

This is the most important tip that I have: Wear Comfortable Shoes ! This probably goes without saying, but NYC is best explored on foot, and you will spend a great deal of time walking from one place to another. When you consider that the average New Yorker walks about 10 miles per day just during their daily lives, you’ll see that comfortable shoes are a must!

What else do you need? This depends a bit on your travel time: 2 shorts or long pants, 2-3 t-shirts and a sweater are sufficient for the warm months. In the colder months you should definitely have several warm sweaters and a jacket!

How much is a 4-day trip to NYC?

If you’re in New York for 4 days, the hotel and food will use up most of your travel budget. A 3 star hotel in Midtown Manhattan starts at $100 per night , a 4 star hotel is $150 and prices for a night in a 5 star hotel start at $300 , so expect overnight costs of $300, $450 and $900 respectively for 3 nights.

For breakfast in the diner you can calculate with $15 per person and in the restaurants with $40 per person . Of course, it can quickly be more expensive.

Sightseeing costs: I can’t stress this enough: be sure to check out the various New York City sightseeing passes. It’s a simple and easy way to save 50% off the regular admission price. For the New York Pass for 4 days you can visit as many attractions as you want. It costs you just $200!

How do you plan a 4 day trip?

What is important to me when planning a trip with 4 days in NYC, I have already implemented in the above itinerary. The attractions you see per day should be close to each other, so you don’t waste a lot of time by communing.

Furthermore, you should plan enough time where you just do nothing else but let New York City work its magic on you. This is best done in one of the many cafes or during a walk along the High Line or 5th Avenue.

3 Days in New York: The Ultimate Guide for 2024

7 Day New York Itinerary

1 Week NYC Itinerary For Free: Travel Plans, Sightseeing, Maps & Tips

I'm a true New York fan! Not only have I visited the city over 25 times but also have I spent several months here at a time. On my blog I show you the best and most beautiful spots of the city, so that you have a really good time! You can also find lots of insider tips in our New York travel guide . Also check out my hotel finder for New York !

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Start of your trip: We will remind you with current events when you are in NYC!

4 Days In New York Itinerary: How To Plan The Perfect NYC Trip

By: Author Mark and Kristen Morgan

Posted on Published: May 20, 2021  - Last updated: October 20, 2023

Categories North America Travel Blog

Planning the perfect first time trip to NYC begins with one very important question: Should you map out a New York City itinerary for 3, 4 or 5 days? Well, we’re here to show you why 4 days is the magic number. We have condensed the very best things to do in New York City into an action packed, fun filled and unforgettable 4 day NYC itinerary.

After heavily exploring New York City for 3 non-stop months in early 2021,  we have crafted the perfect 4 days itinerary blueprint for first time visitors to one of the world’s greatest cities.

If you follow this itinerary exactly, you will see all of the top rated paid attractions, walk around the cool and edgy neighborhoods and of course hit the best free things to do in NYC.

Remember, you can always use this example itinerary as a starting point and tailor it to suit your travel style and preferences. 

Let’s break the iconic landmarks and neighborhoods of New York City up into 4 memorable days!

Why 4 Days?

We thought long and hard about 3, 4 and 5 days for the perfect amount of time for a first time visitor to explore NYC.

New York City is one of the best places to visit in the USA but it is not a cheap place to take a vacation. Hotels, food, attractions and transport add up quickly.

However, there are so many awesome things to do in the city, so it’s important to get the balance right.

• With just 3 days, you will be seriously cramming things in and you will have to cut one or two ‘big’ attractions or neighborhoods from your itinerary.
• If you stay in the city for 5 days, you might find you have unexpected ‘dead’ time. Plus it starts to get really expensive.
• Therefore, 4 days strikes the perfect balance between cost, time and making the most of your trip to NYC.

Getting Into NYC

Let’s take a quick look into basic travel logistics and useful tips for getting into the city. All transport terminals can be found on the map located at the end of the NYC itinerary:

Remember if you drive to the city, you will have to pay additional fees for hotel parking. There are tolls to pay as you cross bridges and tunnels, plus traffic is going to cost you time.

We highly recommend leaving your car in the hotel parking lot and using subways to get around once in the city.

The major Amtrak station in New York City is newly built Moynihan Hall, opposite Penn Station (which serves as one combined entity).

Greyhound bus terminal in NYC is at Port Authority, 8th ave and 40th-42nd street. Times Square and Penn Station are within walking distance.

International visitors will land at JFK or Newark, but domestic US travelers could also land at La Guardia. Here’s how to get into the city from each airport:

• JFK to Manhattan – Take the air train to Jamaica Station and then the LIRR to Penn Station. The LIRR is much easier than taking the subway, especially if you have larger suitcases.
• Newark to Manhattan – The Newark Airport ‘AirTrain’ will transport you from airport terminal to airport train station. Take the NJ Transit train or Amtrak train directly from Newark Airport station to Penn Station. Easier and quicker than JFK.
• La Guardia to Manhattan – No direct train links. Take a bus to a subway line or take a taxi, private bus, or private car into Manhattan.

Where To Stay In NYC

The hotel you decide to book will play an important role in the success and enjoyment of your visit to the city.

Our top tip is to book a hotel near a subway station. If you can help it, you don’t want a 5 or 10 minute walk each time you want to go anywhere in the city and the same back again later that night.

We won’t get into hotels in a big way in this 4 days New York City itinerary. Instead we will list just a handful of the top rated hotels in the most popular centrally located areas for first time visitors.

Read our comprehensive  Where to Stay in New York City guide to find the perfect hotel for your travel style and preferences. It is a very detailed roundup of the top rated hotels in each of the 6 most popular NYC areas.

Important : A high proportion of first time visitors to New York will book a hotel near Times Square. Therefore, for the purposes of this 4 days in New York City itinerary, we will use Times Square as our home base.

Each hotel listed below has a rating out of 10 as per Booking.com included for reference. We have included the popular areas of Central Park, Times Square and Midtown South.

Click on any hotel name to see the prices for your dates:

• Central Park – M Social Hotel 8.5
• Times Square – Riu Plaza 8.6
• Midtown South – Cambria 8.8
• Central Park – 1 Hotel Central Park 8.7
• Times Square – CitizenM Times Square 9.1
• Midtown South – Archer 9.0
• Central Park – The Whitby Hotel 9.5
• Times Square – The Chatwal 9.1
• Midtown South – The Langham 9.1

NYC Itinerary Tips

• Spend as much time as possible exploring each day and night. You can sleep after your trip!
• Depending on season, you might have one or two days of bad weather forecast. If there’s going to be a rainy day, switch up the itinerary to make sure you spend as much time inside as possible.
• Fuel up during the day with the best bagels in NYC , endless slices of the best NYC pizza and hotdogs from street vendors – you are in New York City after all!
• Visiting New York City at Christmas? Read our detailed guide to visiting NYC in Winter .
• Book every single attraction you want to do in advance, whether it’s a museum, observation deck, cruise and even lunch or dinner if it’s somewhere popular. With just 4 days you can’t afford to lose time standing in lines or being on a waiting list.
• Purchase a NYC attraction pass to save money when visiting many of the top attractions in the city. We will cover everything you need to know towards the end of this guide after the itinerary.

Day 1 New York City Itinerary – Central Park, North Midtown & Times Square

Let’s kick things off on Day 1 with an iconic park, world famous art museums, shopping and the first of many observation decks.

Remember, the summer months of June, July and August are peak season in NYC. If you want to avoid the crowds but still have comfortable weather, consider visiting New York in April or another shoulder season month.

Central Park and North Midtown are overflowing with must-visit sights. It will be a busy first day with a lot of walking.

Morning – Central Park

There are two awesome NYC bagel joints near Penn Station on 35th street between 7th and 8th avenue:  Liberty Bagels Midtown and Best Bagel & Coffee . Either will set up you perfectly for the day ahead.

After breakfast, walk up 7th avenue from Times Square to Central Park or take the Yellow subway line from Times Sq 42 St to 5 Avenue on the Southeast corner of Central Park.

One of our top tips for your 4 days in New York City itinerary is to walk through Times Square before (or during) sunrise. It’s almost as crazy to see it empty as it to see it buzzing at night.

Central Park is a stunning part of the city you just can’t miss on a first visit to NYC. Walking through the park is up there with the very best free things to do in New York.

It’s also a 4 season urban oasis:

• Spring – Cherry blossom
• Summer – Emerald green leaves
• Fall – Burnt orange foliage
• Winter – See Central Park in the snow

Once in Central Park, follow this exact path:

The Pond -> Gapstow Bridge -> Wollman Ice Rink -> The Mall -> Bethesda Terrace -> Bow Bridge (but don’t cross it) -> Cherry Hill -> Wagner Cove -> Strawberry Fields -> Ramble Stone Arch -> The Ramble -> Belvedere Castle and finish at The MET .

The MET (Metropolitan Museum of Art) is our top pick for the best NYC museums . If you are only going to do one, make it this one. We spent 5 hours inside and left feeling like we’d missed a few important exhibits.

It is huge!

Afternoon – North Midtown

Once you manage to tear yourself away from The MET, either walk back through Central Park sticking close to the boundary with 5th avenue or walk on 5th avenue itself.

The park is more attractive but the luxury buildings of Upper East Side are impressive and intriguing.

When you reach the corner of 59th street and 5th avenue – where the Plaza Hotel from Home Alone 2 is located – you will begin walking down the world’s most expensive shopping street: Upper Fifth Avenue.

If shopping isn’t your cup of tea, why not go for a ‘proper brew’ with afternoon tea at The Whitby Hotel ?

Sandwiches, scones and desserts at one of the top rated hotels in NYC is a luxurious and relaxing way to refuel after standing for hours.

Alternatively, if you love art and can’t wait to travel forward in time from The MET, spend the next few hours perusing New York’s premier Modern Art display inside MoMA .

However you decide to spend the afternoon in North Midtown, be sure to walk by St Patrick’s Cathedral, Atlas, Saks Fifth Avenue and Rockefeller Center.

Evening – Times Square

After looking up at the impressive Rockefeller Center, there’s only one thing to do – stand on its roof. Walk the red carpet entrance on W 50th street, check out the exhibits and take the elevator up to Top of the Rock .

Pre-book your time slot for Top of the Rock and go for the hour before sunset. That way you can watch as Midtown and Downtown turn a golden yellow and orange as the city buildings cast huge deep shadows from block to block.

From Top of the Rock you have awesome views over Central Park, Edge and particularly the Empire State Building, which lights up at night.

Once you’ve seen enough and day has transitioned into night, it’s time to immerse yourself into the eccentric chaos that is Times Square. Even if you know you’re not going to like Times Square, you should at least walk through it one time to experience the electric atmosphere.

Look for the red staircase and take a seat to soak up the sensory overload scenes unfolding in front of you.

The time will come when you can’t take it anymore. At that point, make your way to Refinery Rooftop for a late dinner and cocktail or beer.

Views of the Empire State Building are great but you will need to book in advance.

Day 1 NYC Attractions Summary

If you want to keep track of any attractions you will visit on this 4 days in New York City itinerary, we will list major and minor attractions at the end of each day.

• Central Park
• Fifth Avenue
• Top of the Rock
• Times Square
• St Patrick’s Cathedral
• Saks Department Store
• Rockefeller Center
• NYC Rooftop Bar

Do you need help planning your visit to New York City? Our popular 40 + page NYC Guidebook & Itinerary covers every aspect of planning a trip to New York including hotels, restaurants, getting around, things to do, example itineraries and so much more!

Day 2 New York City Itinerary – South Midtown, Chelsea & Central Midtown

Day 2 gets you stuck into the meat of Manhattan, New York. The route is a nice, easy to follow square shaped loop and is best achieved by walking.

There are fewer ‘top attractions’ but more chance to walk through some of the residential areas in Manhattan.

Morning – South Midtown

Start the day with a visit to the 86th floor of New York’s most iconic building of all – the Empire State Building. There are 50 tickets per day for sunrise but they are expensive.

So if you’re on a lower budget, we’d suggest waiting until right after the sunrise time slot.

Views circling 360 degrees consist of enormous skyscrapers and concrete towers bursting high above the streets of NYC. The exhibits are interesting and you can also pay more to visit the 102nd floor but be aware that floor is indoors.

Take Broadway as far as the Flatiron Building to gaze upon the famous narrowly rounded front edge.

Continue down Broadway passing through Union Square until you reach the incredibly popular and independent Strand Book Store .

By now there are likely to be lines to get in but it’s worth waiting around a few minutes to get inside.

Afternoon – Chelsea

Next up is a 6 block walk along W 14th street as far as Chelsea Market.

Spend a few hours exploring Chelsea Market, find a great spot (such as Los Tacos ) for a quick take out lunch and enjoy the atmosphere.

Walk around Chelsea and the Meatpacking District for another hour or so, there are dozens of trendy bars and restaurants here to grab lunch if nothing takes your fancy inside Chelsea Market.

You will find The High Line starts just a few blocks South of the market and that’s where you’ll be heading next, right on the corner of Gansevoort and Washington.

The High Line is a peaceful and relaxing escape from crosswalks and relentless traffic. An old railroad line transformed into a 1.5 mile long garden oasis elevated above street level is as awesome as it sounds.

This place does get busy in Summer and on warm Spring or Fall days. But by late afternoon it should be beginning to get quieter after the midday rush.

Evening – Central Midtown

As you walk North, you will see an eye-catching glass building with strange triangular shaped platform jutting out at the top. That is Edge at Hudson Yards and you will be standing on that very platform shortly.

Undergoing significant redevelopment, Hudson Yards has become a modern and futuristic looking area to enjoy. The High Line ends right at the Hudson Yards complex.

Start with Vessel, one of the most unique and awesome pieces of architecture in the city. Next to it is The Shed, a cultural center with retractable shell.

Move inside the main shopping mall at Hudson Yards. It reminded us of a mall in Dubai or Singapore with its pristine finish and upmarket feel. On the 4th floor you will find the entrance to Edge.

Spend time walking around the cool exhibits, explaining how renewable energy, waste and air filtration works in conjunction with the building.

The elevator ride from floor 4 to 100 is our favorite elevator in New York City. You will know why when you’re floating upward.

Views over NYC from Edge at sunset are astounding. We highly recommend this one.

When you’re ready, head up 34th street, passing Penn Station as far as Macy’s. You simply can’t miss one of the world’s most popular department stores on your first trip to NYC.

If you bought a New York CityPASS , you will have a ‘free’ second visit to the Empire State Building after 7pm. So if you’re not observation-decked-out, head back up to floor 82 to see New York shimmering at night.

Day 2 NYC Attractions Summary

Here are the top NYC attractions you have ticked off on day 2:

• Empire State Building
• Macy’s
• Chelsea Market
• The High Line
• Strand Book Store
• Flatiron Building
• Meatpacking District
• Penn Station

Day 3 New York City Itinerary – Lower Manhattan & SoHo

Days 1 and 2 have been action packed but day 3 takes things up a notch. Lots of coffee in the morning is a must!

Lower Manhattan is home to an overwhelming amount of touristy things to do in New York. However, with just one day to see it all, we’re going to prioritize only the most unmissable.

Morning – Lower Manhattan Part 1

Take the red subway line from Times Square 42 St to the South Ferry terminal in time to jump on the very first ferry of the day to Liberty Island.

Again, you will need to book this in advance and we highly recommend you do make the first ferry. That way you get a good start on a long day and you also get Liberty Island to just the one group.

The ferry leaves from behind Castle Clinton in The Battery on Manhattan’s Southern tip.

Visiting the Statue of Liberty is one of the top bucket list activities on your 4 days in New York, and this is the only way you can actually step foot on Liberty Island.

The ferry leaves Liberty Island and makes a stop at Ellis Island before heading back to Manhattan. We thoroughly enjoyed and highly recommend getting off at Ellis Island to take the tour inside the National Museum of Immigration.

However, only do this if you either have a lot of interest in this museum or you are a quick explorer because there’s a lot more to get through today.

Once back in Manhattan, it’s time to explore the maze-like street of the Financial District. Start with Stone Street, Broad Street and William Street before reaching Wall Street.

Check out the Trump Building, Federal Hall, Trinity Church and NYSE with the Fearless Girl statue. Consider taking this popular walking tour of Wall Street and the Financial District.

Afternoon – Lower Manhattan Part 2

Around 12pm – 1pm is the perfect time of day if you’re planning to take a luxury helicopter tour over NYC for a special occasion. We’d recommend waiting on lunch until after the flight!

If a helicopter ride isn’t on your radar, head straight up to Oculus at the World Trade Center complex. Oculus is one of our favorite buildings in New York.

It looks like a bright white winged dove from the outside and opens up into a vast and cavernous grand hall.

If you want to complete the set of observation decks, One World Observatory is the highest platform in the Western Hemisphere. It offers a unique city view, including Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge.

Otherwise, it’s time for a harrowing but unmissable part of your 4 days in New York itinerary – the 9/11 museum. Spend a few minutes walking around the memorial pools before heading inside.

Allow at least 2-3 hours the museum. It’s so sad but engaging and gripping. A timeline of events unfolding almost feels like a tense movie script, but it was a tragic reality.

The museum does a fantastic job of immersing you into the events.

Evening – SoHo

Emotions will be running high but you’ll need to shake it off as you walk North up W Broadway through Tribeca and into SoHo.

SoHo is a ritzy residential / high end shopping area in which you can enjoy some of the best people watching in the city. Walk up and down the quaint grid-style cobblestoned streets, stopping to admire the rows of houses and shops.

If you fancy a sweet treat, don’t miss Dominique Ansel bakery and its legendary Cronut – a croissant / donut hybrid.

Still feeling like walking and exploring at this point? Continue on to Greenwich Village and West Village for more of the same picturesque residential rows.

If not, stick around in SoHo, find a posh place for dinner and relax.

Day 3 NYC Attractions Summary

Here are the top NYC attractions you have ticked off on day 3:

• Statue of Liberty
• Wall Street
• One World Observatory
• 9/11 Memorial & Museum
• Ellis Island
• Trinity Church
• Helicopter Ride

Day 4 New York City Itinerary – Brooklyn & Williamsburg

The last day of your 4 days in New York City itinerary is centered around crossing the East River into Brooklyn and back again into Manhattan. Maybe more than once!

One day is doing Brooklyn a disservice. But on a first visit to NYC, there are just so many places in Manhattan you can’t miss.

Let’s take a look at an efficient way to see some of the best bits in Brooklyn in one day.

Morning – Dumbo

If you don’t mind an early start, we highly recommend waking up before sunrise and making your way down to Brooklyn Bridge / City Hall on the green subway line.

Walking over the iconic Brooklyn Bridge at sunrise is one of the best free things you can do in New York. You will have the bridge almost entirely to yourself, perfect for snapping some selfies.

Serious photographers should try to be at Pier 17 during civil twilight. The sun rises behind Williamsburg and Pier 17 has one of the top places to watch sunrise in NYC.

Cross the bridge and once you reach Brooklyn, take the staircase and turn left. Walk 3 blocks straight down Washington Street and you’ll see the mighty Manhattan Bridge dominating the skyline through a tunnel of narrow buildings.

Early morning gives you a better chance of getting a selfie without dozens of others, plus the bridge will be glowing just after sunrise.

This unique spot in Dumbo is one of the best photography and instagram locations in NYC . 

Afternoon – Williamsburg

You have so many options for places to explore in Brooklyn.

Prospect Park, Greenwood Cemetery, Red Hook, walk around downtown Brooklyn, pick any of the residential neighborhoods to see those typical Brooklyn houses with wide set steps at the entrance and the list goes on.

However, for the purpose of keeping things broader and to give you more of a complete visit to NYC, we recommend you jump on the light green line at Hoyt-Schermerhorn and get off at Metropolitan Ave in Williamsburg.

Trendy hipster Williamsburg is a cool residential neighborhood with tons of bars and restaurants spilling out into the streets centered around Bedford Avenue and Berry Street.

Start at Domino Park and walk all the way up Berry St / Bedford Av to really immerse yourself into Williamsburg around midday. Stop in for lunch and a beer at one of many awesome looking places.

If you’re into street art, make the extra effort to reach the Bushwick Collective. You can jump on the grey line at Bedford Av station and get off at Jefferson St to see entire streets covered in wall art.

Top tip : If you’re trying out pizza slices in each area of NYC, you can’t miss highly rated and always busy L’industrie pizzeria in Williamsburg.

Evening – Brooklyn

Tear yourself away from the pubs in Williamsburg and head back to Hoyt-Schermerhorn St in Brooklyn.

Make your way over to Montague Street and walk as far as Brooklyn Heights promenade for your first of many Lower Manhattan skyline views. Turn right and follow this all the way around until you’re standing underneath Brooklyn Bridge.

Continue along Water Street and enter Time Out Market . On the river side of the market, you will be able to see the classic Brooklyn Bridge view. Take a ton of photographs from Jane’s Carousel, Pebble Beach and on top of Time Out Market.

Sunset is awesome from anywhere in this area. Grab dinner at a riverside restaurant in Time Out Market, then head back to the other side of Brooklyn Bridge again.

Follow the waterfront Pier 1 promenade until you reach Old Pier 1 for another unique but amazing view of Manhattan.

Finally, take one of the most unforgettable walks in New York City by crossing the Brooklyn Bridge at night when Manhattan begins to sparkle.

Day 4 NYC Attractions Summary

Here are the top NYC attractions you have ticked off on day 4:

• Williamsburg
• Brooklyn Bridge
• Manhattan Bridge
• Bushwick Collective
• Domino Park
• Brooklyn Bridge Park

4 Days In New York City Neighborhood Itinerary

Does the itinerary above sound a little too touristy for your taste?

If you’re visiting New York City to see the good, the bad and the gritty, spend your days walking around neighborhoods instead of attractions.

Here’s an example of how you could spend 4 days in New York City:

• 1 – West Village, Greenwich Village and Chelsea
• 2 – Tribeca, Chinatown, Little Italy, Nolita and SoHo
• 3 – Bowery, East Village and Lower East Side
• 4 – Brooklyn and Williamsburg

4 Days In New York Itinerary Map

We have created a 4 Days NYC Itinerary Map for you to use as a reference. Each day is numbered by attraction or activity as listed in the itinerary above.

Click or touch your screen to activate the map.

Scroll around, zoom in and out, get to know the area and click on each icon to see how the 4 days New York City itinerary will work.

Understanding the geography of NYC will significantly help you get around and save time once you arrive.

• Red icons = Day 1
• Green icons = Day 2
• Purple icons = Day 3
• Blue icons = Day 4
• Orange icons = Transport Hubs

New York City Attraction Passes

If you are planning to visit the top attractions in New York, we recommend you purchase a New York City attraction pass .

The idea is simple with these attractions passes;  the more attractions you visit, the more money you will save .

Having used the NYC attraction passes ourselves when we lived in New York, we recommend the New York Sightseeing Pass because its extremely easy to use while offering both flexibility and big savings.

Many of the attractions on this New York Itinerary are included with the NY Sightseeing Pass and we have an exclusive 10% discount just for our readers.

Want To Save Money In NYC?

Use the button below to claim 10% off any NY Sightseeing Pass.

You can also read our guides below to help decide which is the perfect pass for your visit to New York:

• NY Sightseeing Pass  – The most popular NYC attraction pass option for visitors who want to see as many attractions as possible.
• New York CityPASS and C3 Pass Review  – How to visit select attractions in New York City at a competitive price point.
• New York Pass Comparison  – Detailed comparison between each of the 4 New York Passes and which one you should buy for your visit.

Travel Tip : If you have a New York attractions pass, you will not have to pay the extra fee for a sunset time slot at the any of the NYC observation decks when you reserve your timed entry ticket online.

Need Help Planning Your Visit To New York City?

NYC is a vacation planning beast and it can be overwhelming trying to get every aspect right. Trust us, we know!

After living in New York City, we created a comprehensive NYC travel guidebook & itineraries that will answer every question you have about where to stay, what to do, where to eat and how to get around the city.

Click see details below to read more about how we can help you plan your dream trip to New York City!

Our Popular NYC Guides

• Attractions  – Here’s our complete roundup of the very  best things to do in New York City  for all visitors covering free, cheap and iconic attractions.
• Photography  – Our guide to the  best photography spots in New York City  includes over 60 famous photo locations around the city.
• Hotels  – Here’s our comprehensive guide on exactly  where to stay in New York City  based on the six popular NYC neighborhoods.
• Winter  – Are you planning a trip to New York in December, January or February? There are 10 important things you need to know about  visiting New York City in Winter .

Best Of New York City

• Pizza  – Sampling famous New York pizza is unmissable on any trip to the big apple, here’s our popular guide to where you can find the very  best pizza in NYC .
• Bagels  – Bagels are the only thing you should be eating for breakfast in New York! Here’s our roundup of where to find the  best bagels in NYC .
• Museums  – With over 100 museums in NYC it can be hard to narrow down which ones you should visit, here’s our version of the  10 best museums in New York City .
• New York Attraction Pass – With so many popular NYC attraction passes how do you choose? In this guide, we give you a detailed comparison for all New York passes .

Want more New York City content?  Head to our  New York Travel Guides  to explore more from the Big Apple as well as beautiful upstate NY.

We hope this New York City itinerary helps with planning the most amazing 4 days NYC trip!

Please let us know if you have any questions about planning your 4 day itinerary or New York City on the comments below.

Happy Planning ,

Mark and Kristen

Enjoy This NYC Guide? Pin If For Your Visit!

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All Rights Reserved © Where Are Those Morgans, LLC. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, maps, graphics, etc.) in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

Mark and Kristen Morgan are travel, hiking and photography experts. Over the last 6 years traveling full time, they have explored more than 40 countries and 30 US states.

Where Are Those Morgans has been featured in USA Today, Gestalten, Get Your Guide, CityPASS and Condé Nast Traveler along with various other publications. Read more about us .

Share this article!

Karine and Matthieu

Saturday 8th of April 2023

Taking my teenage son during spring vacay and this was super helpful! thank you

Mark and Kristen Morgan

Monday 17th of April 2023

You're very welcome, Karine. We hope you have a fantastic time in NYC!

Monday 25th of April 2022

This is great!! How do we incorporate a broadway play or 2?

Friday 29th of April 2022

Hi Bonnie, if you're planning to squeeze in a few broadway shows we would suggest doing one or two of the observation decks during the day instead of at night so you can do broadway on an evening instead. It might be worth considering staying close to Times Square so you don't have to go far after your shows at night. We'd also recommend booking your tickets in advance, we are just leaving a few days in NYC and it is back to being extremely busy! Have a great time!

Saturday 20th of November 2021

WOW. This was impressive. Your valuable effort and time does not go unnoticed with this post.

Monday 22nd of November 2021

Thank you very much, Levi, we appreciate you taking the time to let us know you found our itinerary helpful. Have a great trip to NYC!

Awesome 4 days in NYC with a local + Secret Tips

As someone who has lived in New York City for well over twenty years, let me be the first one to admit that 4 days in NYC is not nearly enough time.

Sure, this 4 days in New York itinerary is perfect for first-timers and will allow you to see some of the best attractions in New York City.

But, don’t assume that this is nearly enough to see everything that this magical city has to offer. Because news flash, it definitely isn’t.

I mean:, 4 days in NYC is barely enough time to explore Manhattan, let alone all the major boroughs in the city.

That being said though, I’ve lived in NYC my entire life and still haven’t seen it all, even with the insane number of New York City itineraries I’ve created and done myself.

Therefore, no matter how much time you have allotted for your New York itinerary , you probably won’t be able to see it all. Whatever that means. LoL.

Because I’m legit still trying to see it all. Like, every damn day.

However, 4 days in New York is enough time to visit many of the city’s major attractions, as well as some of New York City’s more local neighborhoods, where some of the best-hidden gems can be found (a week in New York City would be better obviously).

It’s in these quiet parts of the city that you can a real for this place and understand what everyday life is like for real New Yorkers.

Truth be told though, I’ve given enough of my friend’s private tours of the city to know that if you’re not from the area, this place can be pretty damn overwhelming.

I mean, between the size of the city, the sheer number of things to do here, and how difficult it can be to navigate this beyond vibrant place, it can be totally overwhelming to try and plan a 4 days in NYC itinerary .

Well, fear not my faithful reader!

Because this super savvy New York local is here to help. Because in this post, I’m gonna lay out the perfect New York itinerary for you, answer all of your most pressing questions, and give you all of my secret, insider tips so that you can plan the best 4 days in NYC ever.

So, if you’re ready, let’s do this shiz and swan dive into this beyond amazing 4 days in New York Itinerary.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

⏰ Looking for something epic to do in NYC? Say Hello to the Empire State Building ! Trust me! This is an experience that will knock your socks off! ⏰

SPECIAL NOTE: This 4 days in New York itinerary is designed with a special type of visitor in mind. Therefore, if it’s your first time in New York and you want to see most of NYC’s top attractions, but still want to get a bit off the beaten path too, then this is 4 days in NYC itinerary for you. I

However, i f you’re a bit of an independent traveler who wants to explore the city on their own and who doesn’t mind hopping on the subway to get somewhere, then this is also the post for you.

It’s also worth noting that this is a suggested itinerary. Therefore, feel free to pick and choose what you want to do and what you want to take a hard pass on.

Just know that NYC really does put the ass back in massive (aka really big). That’s why, if you modify this 4 days in New York itinerary significantly, you may have to endure an arduous ride on the subway or an extra-long uber ride as you attempt to make your way from point A to point B.

Table of Contents

How much Money Do You Need for 4 days in NYC?

Oh, that’s a great question. And the answer really depends on your budget.

Because sadly, New York really is as expensive as everyone says.

I mean, you could easily spend upwards of $500 a day when you factor in attractions, the cost of a hotel room, transportation, food, and more.

I seriously doubt that most people actually have that kind of cash at their disposal. And if you do, umm, can I be you? Pretty please?

All jokes aside though.

To really enjoy your 4 days in NYC, I would plan to spend at least $60 a day on food, more than $100 a day on a hotel room (trust me, it will be hard to find a decent hotel room in New York City for under $150 a night), $10 a day on transportation, and at least $40 a day on attractions/activities.

You’ll have to budget a bit more though if you plan on going out in the evening,

So yeah, to really enjoy the city and not be totally miserable, I’d plan to spend at least $200 per day at a minimum (and that includes the cost of your hotel per night).

But, if you’re on an extremely limited budget, you can always check out my post on how to backpack in NYC like a local . I’d also suggest reading this post on some of the most affordable hotels in NYC , many of which are situated in Mid-Town and Lower Manhattan.

You know, just to make sightseeing a whole lot easier (Other areas you might want to consider staying in if you’re on a budget include Astoria, Long Island City, Williamsburg, Clinton Hill, DUMBO, and more.

All are just a short train ride from Manhattan and can offer cheaper accommodation options than notoriously expensive Manhattan).

You can also go on a trip out of the city and embark on one of the many amazing hikes near NYC , all of which are incredibly cheap and stunningly beautiful.

When is the Best Time to Visit NYC?

If you are wondering when is the best time to visit New York , I got you. But the answer will depend on what you’re into during your 4 days in NYC since this is a year-round hotspot.

So let me break it down for y’all:

• Spring (March to May) -Springtime in NYC is awesome. The weather starts to warm up, and the city’s parks begin to bloom to life with beautiful colors. You can also enjoy fun events like the Cherry Blossom Festival at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden or relaxing in Central Park. Just watch out for the rain.
• S ummer (June to August) – Summer in the city means tons of heat and humidity, making it prime time for outdoor activities. So, check out a wide variety of open-air concerts, festivals, and free flicks in parks like Bryant Park and Central Park. Just be ready for tons of tourists and sky-high hotel prices.
• Fall (September to November) – Autumn is an amazing time to visit NYC since the weather is pleasant and Central Park comes alive with vibrant fall foliage. The cultural scene also cranks up a notch with Broadway shows and art galore. September and early October are also quieter, while the weather cools down later in the season.
• Winter (December to February) – Winter in NYC is pure magic. Think Rockefeller Center’s dazzling Christmas Tree and twirling around in Central Park on ice skates. Now, while January in NYC and February in NYC can be frosty, this is the perfect time to see museums and take in a Broadway show. You might even score some sweet hotel deals that will help keep your budget in check. You can even warm up while attending a fab NYC drag brunch .

How Many Days to Spend in New York?

Another great question.

As I stated above, no matter how long your planned New York itinerary is, you probably won’t be able to see everything that this amazing city has to offer.

However, you will definitely need at least three days to see all of NYC’s main attractions.

But, obviously, between four and five days in NYC is better since you’ll be able to see most of the city’s main attractions, as well as some of the more unusual things to do in NYC too.

How to Get to NYC From the Airport?

Because NYC has, count em, three major airports (LaGuardia, JFK, and Newark), I could easily write an entire post about how to get to NYC from the airport.

And guess what? I actually did and you can check that post out, right now.

Otherwise, the abridged version is that out of the three major New York City airports, I would definitely fly into JFK.

Because truthfully? LaGuardia is just a straight-up awful airport. Yes, it is conveniently located in Queens but, it really only handles domestic flights and doesn’t even do that well since there are always delays and the service is terrible.

Newark on the other hand is okay but it’s pretty far from the city since it’s in New Jersey.

So, if you fly into Newark, just be prepared to endure 30+ minutes on NJ transit or a really long/ really expensive cab ride.

In contrast, when you fly into JFK, you can easily use the Airtrain, the A Train, or the LIRR to get where you need to go.

However, if you’re totally averse to public transportation, or just have a sh*t ton of stuff to carry, you may want to just take a taxi.

Yes, they are expensive but they are super convenient since they will drive you directly from JFK to Manhattan in a relatively short amount of time (Go to a designated taxi stand and DO NOT accept rides from touts who are trying to get you to ride with them. It is a scam).

As of right now, a taxi from JFK to Mid-Town is a flat fare of $52, with a $4.50 surcharge during peak hours (4:00 pm to 8:00 pm weekdays). It is also customary to tip your taxi driver a few dollars so let’s round up and say that the trip will cost you $60.

I know, it’s a lot. But I told you, NYC is expensive.

However, if that price is a bit too steep, you can always take an airport shuttle from JFK to Manhattan instead.

A ride on one of these airport shuttles will typically cost between $19 and $25 per person. You just have to call them when you land and they will pick you up ASAP. You know, just in case your flight is delayed.

So, this could definitely be a viable option if you’re traveling alone and don’t want to drag all your stuff on public transportation.

However, wait times for shuttles and the actual time it takes to get into the city can be upwards of an hour since the shuttle picks up and drops off multiple people during a single trip to JFK.

Therefore, if you’re traveling as a party of two or more, and totally hate public transportation, you may just want to take a taxi because if you divide the $60 fare by two, that’s $30 per person which is really only a savings of about $10 per person.

But, since I typically travel alone, I have no one to split the cab fare with and end up just taking a shuttle to Mid-Town, like Go Air Link.

I mean, Go Air Link I did have to wait a while and it did take forever to get into the city since we had to pick up a bunch of people from other terminals.

But, the driver was nice, it was way cheaper than taking a taxi, and it was easier than taking the subway.

Because if you take public transportation from JFK to Manhattan, just remember that there is no direct connection between the two places.

Therefore, you’ll have to get on the Airtrain at JFK and then transfer to the MTA in Jamaica, Queens.

And once you’re on the LIR (AKA Long Island Railroad) you’ll probably have to transfer again to the subway line of your choice, at least if you’re going into Manhattan.

That’s why this journey can take anywhere between an hour and an hour and a half, depending on where you need to go in the city (So, if you have a lot of luggage and are traveling during rush hour, you may not want to use public transportation).

Pro Tip: If you’re traveling to NYC from anywhere on the East Coast, you may want to endure the annoyance of a long-haul bus ride and take a Megabus directly into Manhattan since they are super cheap and make getting into the city really easy.

Where to Stay in New York City for Your 4 Days in New York Itinerary

I’m not gonna lie to you because there’s no way around it. New York is EXPENSIVE.

That’s why it will be difficult to find a decent hotel room for under $100 per night. Therefore, the cost of accommodations will make up a HUGE portion of your budget.

If you can afford it though, definitely try and stay in Midtown or the Village since both are pretty centrally located.

Otherwise, you can try staying in places like Astoria, DUMBO, Williamsburg, and Long Island City to help save some cold, hard cash.

Whatever you do though: Don’t venture too far out of the city center. If you do then you’ll be spending most of your 4 days in New York itinerary on the subway.

Get much further out, though, and you’re going to be eating up your 4 days in New York by sitting on the subway, so be wary of that!

So, here are a few of my favorite hotels in NYC for any budget.

Pro Tip: Many people ask me about staying in an Airbnb during their 4 days in NYC. Please note that staying in an Airbnb in NYC is ONLY legal is you stay for a month or more.

Pod 39 (budget)

⭐️ Rating: 8.1/10 (7,241 Reviews) Price: $325 per night 📍Location: 145 East 39th Street, Murray Hill, New York, NY Details: Read more on booking.com now!

Located in the ever-lovely Murray Hill neighborhood of NYC (You’ll find the best Indian food in the city here), this chic and trendy pod hotel has rooms that start at $120 per night.

Are they small? Yeah, kinda. But, everything is clean and you have everything you need for a comfy, albeit cozy, stay,

Plus, you get to stay inside a residential home from 1918 and can choose between queen-size beds or stainless-steel bunk beds that come TVs and bedside shelves.

The Arlo Midtown ( midrange)

⭐️ Rating: 8.7/10 (3,525 Reviews) Price: $369 per night 📍Location: 351 West 38th Street, Hell’s Kitchen, New York, NY Details: Read more on booking.com now!

Well-located in Times Square and with rooms that start at around $140 per night, the Duffy Times Square is an ideal place to stay for travelers who are on a budget but who still want to be comfortable.

So, book a modern room inside this boutique hotel near Hell’s Kitchen and enjoy polished rooms facing an interior courtyard that feature Belgian linens, flatscreen TVs, and WiFi. Or if you feel adventurous take one of the free bicycle rentals and explore the town.

The James New York (midrange)

⭐️ Rating: 8.1/10 (680 Reviews) Price: $575 per night 📍Location: 22 East 29th Street, NoMad, New York, NY Details: Read more on booking.com now!

This posh AF hotel is well located in SOHO and has comfortable, clean, and well-appointed rooms that start at just $177 per night. A

ll rooms here are also incredibly well decorated and feature high ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, glassed-off bathrooms, plush linens made from natural materials, and more. Trust me, book a room here and I promise you will not regret it.

Lotte New York Palace (luxury)

⭐️ Rating: 8.1/10 (378 Reviews) Price: $738 per night 📍Location: 455 Madison Avenue, Midtown East, New York, NY Details: Read more on booking.com now!

This stunning, 4.5-star hotel in Midtown East is the single BEST place to stay during your 4 days in NYC if you have a little extra cash to burn.

After all, it sits inside a stunning, 19th-century mansion (across the street from St. Patrick’s Cathedral) and features exquisite rooms with WiFi, flatscreen TVs, deisgner toiletries, and more. Room service is also available 24/7 and guests will love the on-site French bakery, wood-paneled bar, and spa.

4 Days in New York Itinerary: How to Get Around NYC

Not surprisingly, NYC is HUGE. That’s why you’ll probably need to use a variety of different transportation methods to help you get around the city.

However, this 4 days in NYC itinerary relies mostly on walking and taking the subway.

So, definitely wear comfy shoes, download a navigation app like Google maps, and have a subway app handy. This way, if service changes (and it always does), then you’ll know about it that you know about it.

But, for your convenience, here is a rundown of all the different ways to get around the city. The method you choose though really depends on your travel style, budget, and group size.

Here’s a quick rundown of your options.

Walking – In New York City, walking is the best. So, wear comfy shoes, have a navigation app handy, and plan on doing a ton of walking. I mean, not only will you be able to see more and really feel the beat of the city, but you’ll burn a ton of calories and be able to eat more too (Hell yes).

You’ll also save a ton of money but definitely be prepared to use public transportation at some point. Just, whatever you do, don’t stop in the middle of the sidewalk because someone will crash into you. Yup, us New Yorkers really are always in a rush.

Instead, pull to the side and do what you need to do as opposed to stopping abruptly.

Subway – Don’t be scared of the subway! It’s pretty safe and easy(ish) to use. Just remember, Uptown trains go to streets with higher numbers and downtown trains go to streets with lower numbers.

Also, don’t forget to buy a Metrocard and top it off before you get on the subway. And while the subway is pretty safe (although I wouldn’t ride it alone at 3:00 am), definitely always keep an eye on your belongings.

Also, don’t give money to beggars, don’t get into an empty subway car (Trust me, it’s empty for a reason), and always hold onto the railing since the train WILL stop abruptly.

Uber – The Uber rideshare app is pretty popular and used to be a whole lot cheaper than a yellow cab. However, recent changes have made Uber a bit more expensive. So, while it is now about as expensive as taking a cab, ordering an uber could still be a good option if it’s rush hour and there isn’t a cab in sight.

Taxis – Taxis in New York run on a meter and are most commonly found throughout Manhattan. So yeah, don’t expect to find them in the deepest reaches of the Bronx and Queens.

You’ll also know they’re vacant when the light atop the cab is lit and can easily hail one by standing on the side of the road, facing the direction of oncoming traffic, and firmly waving your hand up and out.

Good luck trying to find one during rush hour though since they are about as rare as a rent-controlled apartment. They also all accept credit cards and are quite expensive.

So, unless you’re traveling with a bunch of people, I wouldn’t rely on them too heavily during your 4 days in New York itinerary.

Rent a Citi Bike – This is a great way to get around if you feel comfortable riding a bike through NYC’s notoriously crazy traffic since it will cost you $12 per day or $3 per 30-minute ride. Just always keep an eye on the road, be aware of your surroundings, and wear a helmet since NYer’s are known to be fairly insane drivers who are always in a rush.

Bus – I hate buses since the copious amounts of traffic in NYC always mean that the ride takes forever. However, they’re slightly more useful outside of Manhattan and can be a good option when subways are unavilable or when service is disrupted. You can also use your Metrocard to pay for a ride so that’s helpful too.

Pedicabs – You’ll see a ton of them in Central Park and I encourage you to avoid them like the plague. They’re a total rip off and ridiculously overpriced.

Rental Car – Renting a car in New York City is 100% useless so don’t do it.

Ferries – You can hop on one of the many ferries that depart from Lower Manhattan and quickly go to Queens, Staten Island, and New Jersey. Plus, the trip is sometimes much shorter, and cheaper, than attempting to take the subway.

Tips For First Time Visitors To NYC

If you are going to spend 4 days in NYC and it is your first time in the city, make sure that you have all the information that you need at your fingertips. The city is HUGE! There is a lot to cover and you want to make the experience wandering across the city as comfortable as possible.

What better way than to learn from a local? Yup… That’s me! I’ve lived in this city for over 30 years so I know all the tricks and tips. The good news is that I’m here to share them!

Always Pack Comfortable Shoes

In NYC, expect to do a lot of walking. Cabs are Uber expensive and the subway will still entail a good deal of walking from spot to spot. 

Even if you don’t mind spending on a cab, you still have to consider the infamous NYC traffic. It is crazy! Sometimes (most often!), you will find that it is way faster to walk.

Trust me, comfortable shoes will definitely make that experience easier. Uggs are a very popular choice. If you are traveling in winter, make sure to choose high-leg waterproof shoes like these Timberland women’s boots – which are a great option too!

Consider Tourist Passes

There are a number of different tourist passes on offer. These will usually save you a percentage on admission to different landmarks across the city.

They could also help you bypass long lines. Popular tourist passes are the New York CityPass and the New York Pass . Just research both, compare them to your itinerary, and see what works for you.

Apps Will Guide You Across The City

Apps are always helpful and since NYC can get really confusing, make sure that you have all the necessary apps at your fingertips. Google maps is a godsend.

It will help you navigate transportation, mark the iconic spots to visit, and ensure that you never get lost. Plus, you can also counter-check the timings of each attraction on the maps too!

If you want an app just for NYC transportation try CityMapper . This helps you with the timings of trains and even interruptions in their schedule.

Google maps on the other hand will not give you this information. It will however tell you the best route for you at that particular time of the day. CityMapper is better when it comes to planning out your route ahead of time.

4 Days in New York Itinerary: Day 1 (Mid-Town and Upper Manhattan)

Rise and shine campers! It’s gonna be a swellerific 24 hours in New York City!

Yeah, I’ll stop. That was obnoxiously enthusiastic. No one needs that kind of saccharine sweet optimism in their life, especially in New York City.

But, I would suggest starting your 4 days in New York itinerary with a beyond delicious bagel because I mean really, how much more NYC does it get than that?

And my personal fave? The cinnamon raisin bagel with chocolate chip cream cheese from Ess-A-Bagel.

However, if you can’t get here or if the line is way too long then no worries. There are a ton of cheap and super delicious bagel places all over the city.

That being said though, this bagel shop is just all sorts of amazing and right near Grand Central Terminal so that’s why I threw this bagel mecca onto this New York itinerary.

Oh and that bagel with cream cheese will probably cost you a mere $5.00. Which is a relatively low price tag that I think we can all get behind.

Explore Grand Central Terminal

Grand Central Terminal! Not only is it free to explore this architectural icon, but there is an amazing food court downstairs that has a ton of gastronomic deliciousness that won’t cost you an arm and a leg. You know, things like Donut Plant, Shake Shack, Magnolia Bakery, Zaro’s Bakery, etc. (I also love the Great Northern Food Court and Grand Central Market).

Since we just ate, I recommend getting some takeaway from Grand Central Market. Between the amazing cheese shop, a bakery with Eli Zabar baked goods, a sushi counter, and a multitude of fresh fruit and vegetable stands, you certainly won’t go hungry or broke for that matter.

Before you leave though, take in all the majestic beauty of the grand concourse, where constellations seem to shimmer and dance across the building’s enchanting ceiling.

If you want, you can also head to the Grand Central Terminal tour office and do a free guided tour of the building. Along the way, you can also check out the whispering gallery, which is located under the four archways that are right outside the Oyster Bar.

Just have a friend stand on the opposite end of the underpass while you speak into the wall at a normal volume.

And tada, the other person will be able to hear you perfectly even though you are a solid 10 meters away and facing the opposite direction.

Just make sure the corridor isn’t insanely noisy because then you won’t be able to hear the echo over the general din of the corridor.

Visit the New York Public Library

After you’ve gotten food and explored the building, we’re off to the New York Public Library!

Not only are there free exhibits on the bottom floor of the main entrance, but there is also a picturesque reading room upstairs that is quite photogenic.

Plus, the library also has an original copy of the Guttenberg Bible (the first printed book in the world), as well as the original stuffed animals that inspired the creation of a little book series known as Winnie the Pooh.

Not sure if you’ve heard of it but it’s kind of sort of a big deal in some parts of the world.

From here, our 4 days in New York itinerary continues as we walk behind the library and explore all that Bryant Park has to offer.

Between the carousel, the reading room, the ping pong tables, and the small tables and chairs that are sprawled out across the great lawn, this park makes an excellent spot to sit, eat some lunch, and watch all the people stroll by.

Pro Tip : Breads Bakery and Wafels and Dinges are two of my favorite food stands in Bryant Park. If I had to pick just one though, I would get the chocolate babka from Breads Bakery. It is to die for .

After you’ve relaxed for a bit, walk down 42nd street and you’ll hit Times Square.

Take in the Bright Lights of Times Square

Please note, I HATE Times Square and stay away from it as much as humanly possible.

But, I recognize that first-time visitors like to stop by and get some photos here. Just leave as quickly as possible since it is insanely crowded and virtually everything in the area is a tourist trap.

You can also come back in the evening so that you can see the bright lights of Times Square in all their neon-hued glory.

If you do decide to come back in the evening, one of the best places to enjoy a stellar view of Times Square amidst relative tranquility is the R Lounge in the Renaissance Times Square Hotel.

Stop by and you’ll basically get killer panoramas of this iconic part of NYC without having to deal with hordes of selfie-stick-wielding tourists.

And although the drinks here definitely aren’t cheap, the bar is home to some of the best views in NYC. So, yeah, you can’t really blame them for charging $16 for a Rose All Day Cocktail.

A cocktail that, BTW, is flipping delicious since it’s made with a divine mixture of Bootlegger Vodka, seasonal fruit, cane syrup, fresh lemon/lime, and sparkling rose.

Walk Along Fifth Avenue, Heading Uptown

From here, stroll down Fifth Avenue and you’ll see some of the most iconic buildings in all of New York City.

From Rockefeller Center to St. Patrick’s Cathedral to Saks Fifth Avenue to Trump Tower to Tiffany’s to the Atlas Statue to the Plaza Hotel to Central Park, Fifth Avenue has it all, and it’s all free!

Just know that if you see the street numbers going up, then you’re heading in the right direction.

Some places you may want to stop at along the way include:

St. Patrick’s Cathedral

This is probably the single most famous and most impressive religious structure in all of New York City.

So, since you’re walking along Fifth Avenue anyway, I would definitely stop by and marvel at the exquisite, Neo-Gothis style architecture here. It’s also free to visit, which is a price tag that everyone will love.

Rockefeller Center and The Top of the Rock

There are ton of different things to do in Rockefeller Center. Plus, it’s literally right across the street from St. Patrick’s Cathedral so yeah, you can’t miss it.

Therefore, take some time photographing the area, see where the Today show is taped, marvel at the skating rink that crops up here in the winter, visit the Lego store, explore FAO Schwartz, meander over to Radio City Music Hall on W 5oth, and more.

If you want one of the best views in NYC, I’d definitely head to the Top of the Rock since you can get an awesome view of the Empire State Building from here (If I had to pick, I’d visit the Top of the Rock instead of the Empire State Building since you can’t photograph the Empire State Building if you’re on top fo it).

Just do yourself a favor and book your tickets well in advance. Also try and purchase flexible date tickets so that if the weather isn’t great, you can always reschedule your visit for another time.

MOMA (The Museum of Modern Art)

⭐️ Rating: 4.6/5 (2.354 Reviews) Price: $25 per person Duration: Valid for 1 day 📍 Meeting Point: Museum of Modern Art at 11 West 53rd Street Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

If you love modern art then this is the museum for you! However, since you’re only doing a 4 day New York Itinerary, I would only visit one of the museums I suggest here. However, if you decide to stop by MOMA , then visit BEFORE you go to Central Park since this museum is located on West 53rd street.

“MoMa is amazing. I don’t particularly appreciate modern art, so I didn’t like the first floors of the museum where these arts are. But it’s really worth going to the upper floors and enjoying the great artists like Picasso, Van Gogh and other phenomenal artists.” Juliana ( read more reviews now! )

But, this place is well worth your time since it is home to iconic pieces done by modern art greats like Van Gogh, Andy Warhol, Jackson Pollock, and more. Per usual, avoid the wait and book your tickets well in advance , like now, and at no extra charge to you.

You can also visit the museum for FREE on Friday evenings between 5:30 pm and 9:00 pm (to avoid long lines, try and arrive after 6:00 pm).

Explore Central Park

So, once you’ve seen everything that you wanted to see along Fifth Avenue, continue uptown to Central Park.

When you get here, spend some time exploring some of the park’s most amazing places, like Belvedere Castle, Bethesda Fountain, Strawberry Fields, the Alice and Wonderland Statue, Tavern on the Green, The Ramble, Sheep’s Meadow, and more.

Just try and stick to the Southern end of the Park and see as much as you can.

Because if you still haven’t visited one of the best museums in NYC, then you can easily stop by either of the two museums listed below. And personally, if I could only visit one museum during day 1 of this 4 days in New York itinerary, it would be the MET (Metropolitan Museum of Art) every single time.

The MET (The Metropolitan Museum of Art) on the East Side of the Park

⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5 (187 Reviews) Price: $56 per person Duration: 2 hours 📍 Meeting Point: Main lobby of the Metropolitan Museum Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

In my humble opinion, this is the single best museum in all of New York City. I mean, I have been here literally dozens of times and have never run out of things to see.

Which makes sense since this place has everything from Impressionist art to Egyptian art to contemporary art, and more. And if you’re here during the summer, you can go to the rooftop bar and enjoy some wicked awesome views of the city.

“Our guide was fantastic, I was very impressed not only by his knowledge but his passion for the exhibits and works of art. He even offered to continue to show us additional pieces after our tour time was up. For me, he was the one thing that made this experience unforgettable for us.” John ( read more reviews now! )

Whatever you do though, don’t leave without seeing the Temple Dendur since it is a giant Egyptian temple that is also my FAVE photo spot in the entire museum. So peaceful and serene. Also, not surprisingly, book your tickets well in advance since lines can be incredibly long.

However, if you’re a resident of NY, NJ, or CT, show a valid form of ID and you can pay what you wish to enter the museum.

The Museum of Natural History (Upper West Side)

⭐️ Rating: 4.3/5 (2,610 Reviews) Price: $28 per person Duration: Valid for 1 day 📍 Meeting Point: Lower level of the Rose Center for Earth and Space Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

Located on the West Side of Central Park, a mere 15-minute walk across the park from the MET, is the Museum of Natural History. It’s home to an impressive collection of animal specimens and dinosaurs fossils that reflect the varied, complex, and straight-up beautiful history of our natural world.

So, if you’re a science lover, then this is the museum for you. It’s also great for kids since there are a ton of interactive exhibits here for them to enjoy.

“The museum was more than I expected. The admissions process was smooth, and the museum had a lot of very interesting exhibits. A wonderful part of our trip!” Makeda ( read more reviews now! )

Again, avoid long lines by booking your tickets in advance, online now at no extra cost to you.

Pro Tip: Before you head back down to Midtown for the evening, stop by Lexington Candy Shop for all-day breakfast (their pancakes are so good and the interior has a super cool, vintage vibe), Cafe Sarbarsky for some Viennese pastries, Shake Shack for a quick burger and fries, or Sant Ambroeus for some delicious, Milennese, Italian cuisine (a bit more of a formal, sit down, dining, experience).

Head Back to Times Square for a Broadway Show!

Once you finally feel a bit museumed out and have had some time to fill your belly, head back downtown for a Broadway show.

Just walk to the 77th street station and take the 4, 5, or 6 train back downtown to the station of your choice. Take the 6 though if you’re not sure where to get off since this is a local train that makes all the stops.

Now, there is no better way to celebrate the end of your first day in New York than with a Broadway show.

Because honestly, I forbid you from leaving the city without seeing at least one Broadway show (Off-Broadway shows are also good too because they are cheaper and are just as good in terms of quality, The only reason why these theaters are “off-broadway” is that the theater is smaller. And that means a better view for you!).

However, do not, I repeat, DO NOT pay full price for tickets. Seriously. There is no need. Because I have seen hundreds of Broadway shows in my life and I have never EVER paid full price for tickets.

So, iff you’re not sure how to get cheap Broadway tickets, use the Today Tix app to quickly and easily get Broadway tickets for just $45 per person, and sometimes less.

Because there are so many great shows on Broadway and unless you want to see something really popular like Hamilton, there’s really no need to pay $100 for a ticket.

Trust me, I have personally seen the Lion King, Wicked, Book of Mormon, Aladdin, the Phantom of the Opera, Chicago, etc., and have never paid full price. Not even once. And that is just a list of only a few of the shows I’ve seen.

Finally, after your show, end your day off right by heading to Juniors for a big slice of New York-style Cheesecake.

Personally, I’d opt for their classic cheesecake with whipped cream and strawberries. I’d also split a piece since the slices here are huge and very filling.

However, do expect a line since this place is open late, located right near Times Square, and is a bit of a hot spot among theatergoers.

4 Days in New York Itinerary: Day 2 (Lower Manhattan and the West Side)

There is no better way to start off day 2 of this 4 days in New York itinerary than with one of the most beloved breakfast sandwiches in the entire city – the bacon, egg, and cheese.

And while you can get this piece of pure, gastronomic bliss from just about any deli in the city:

One of my favorite places to enjoy a classic egg and cheese sandwich (since I’m a vegetarian) is Sunny and Annie’s Deli, since, well, it’s a no-frills, classic, New York-style deli.

Pro Tip: You can also get one of these delicious sandwiches at Tompkins Square Bagel. Black Seed, the Egg Shop, and Estela are also quite good but they are a bit far away.

So, to get here from Mid-town, just take the F train to second avenue station and walk to Sunny and Annie’s Deli from here.

Once you’ve enjoyed the eggy goodness, work off that sandwich by taking a 20-minute walk to Washington Square Park (Trust me, it’s faster to walk than take public transportation).

Enjoy Washington Square Park

Once you enter the park enjoy the ample cool kids’ vibes here since this oasis of greenery has a super vivacious feel to it that comes from all of the NYU students who live/go to classes in the area.

It’s also the unofficial gathering place for residents of the ever-trendy Greenwich Village neighborhood. So, be sure to take in all of the street performers, skateboarders, and speed-chess players who hang out in the area.

Also marvel at the exquisite Greek Revival townhouses that line the perimeter of the park, as well as the park’s iconic, Stanford White Arch, It is 73 feet tall, is made of gleaming white Tuckahoe marble, and prominently stands on the Northside of the park.

And if you stand at just the right angle you’ll be able to capture an awesome shot through the arch with the Empire State Building in the background.

After enjoying the park, you may want to snag a make your own cupcake from Molly’s cupcakes since they are known for baking some of the most delicious cupcakes in the entire city.

Otherwise, walk a mere 10-minutes to Strand Bookstore.

Visit Strand Bookstore

Honestly, I am OBSESSED with this beyond amazing used bookstore in lower Manhattan.

I mean, they have anything and everything that a bibliophile could ever want. This is why, any time I walk in here, I practically rollick through the endless stacks of used books.

And trust me, that’s a lot of frolicking since Strand has three floors of bookish wonder.

So, definitely add this store to your 4 days in NYC itinerary. Especially since they have killer souvenirs like t-shirts that emphatically state, “A well-read woman is a dangerous thing”.

I mean really, do shirts get much better than that? And just in case you were curious, the only correct answer to that question is no, obviously not.

Before you leave though, don’t forget to hop in the elevator and make your way to the third floor, where you’ll find an awesome collection of super vintage, rare, first edition books.

Yup, just an amazing place to stand in awe of the enduring power of the written word.

Stop by the Flatiron Building

Next, make your way Uptown because NYC’s iconic Flatiron Building is a quick, 13-minute walk away.

Truthfully though, the flatiron building is more about the photo op than anything else since there’s not really all that much to do here except take pretty pictures of this New York landmark.

So, for the best pictures possible, DO NOT take a photo of the building straight on. Do this, and you won’t be able to appreciate its unique, triangle shape.

Instead, snap a pic of the left side of the Flatiron building (when facing the building) while standing as far away from the structure as humanly possible,

Why? Well, have you ever taken an amazing shot, only to have Instagram’s beyond weird dimensions totally ruin it?

Yup, same same. And this is even easier to do with the Flatiron building since it’s quite slender and tall, making it only natural that you’d want to take a vertical shot…that will get cut off by Instagram. Lammee.

Therefore, keep the dimensions of Instagram in mind when shooting and try to take a horizontal, distance shot instead.

Otherwise, if you’re actually hungry (and I seriously doubt you are), you can always stop by Shake Shack (always good), the famous Eataly (It’s run by the famous Mario Batali and is a gourmet grocery store/food hall that has a ton of super delicious, Italian food. It also has a rooftop bar with elaborate decor that changes with the season.), and the Pennsy Food Hall at Penn Station.

But, if you’re actually looking for something fun to do, not consume, the Museum of Sex is in the area, as is the Museum of Mathematics.

I would steer clear of the Museum of Sex though since I went and wasn’t particularly impressed. Plus, tickets weren’t exactly cheap so I’d take a hard pass on that one.

Enjoy the Best Things to do in Soho

• Visit the Museum of Ice Cream – TBH, I thought I would like the Museum of Ice Cream a lot more than I did. Yes, it was fun and yes I got to inhale four small samples of delicious ice cream, and yes there was a cool slide, but this place is more about the photo ops than the experience. So, if you love doing it for the gram’ or have kids then add this spot to your 4 days in NYC itinerary.
• Explore Housing Works Bookstore – Housing Works Bookstore is a bookworm’s paradise right in the heart of SoHo. Swing by to soak up the all-American literary charm of this amazing place during your 4 days in NYC. After all, this place is a treasure trove of used books, vinyl records, and other vintage goods. Plus. every purchase made supports the fight to end HIV/AIDS and homelessness.
• Dominique Ansel Bakery – If you only have 4 days in NYC, then you have to visit Dominique Ansel Bakery. While you are there, prepare to be bedazzled by Instagram-worthy delights like the famous Cronut (croissant/donut and no unique monthly flavor is repeated twice), Blossoming Hot Chocolate, and Milk and Cookie Shots (chocolate chip shot glasses served with vanilla milk).
• The MoMa Design Store – This place is a haven for design aficionados and anyone looking for super unique souvenirs in NYC. After all, it’s your go-to spot for cutting-edge home decor, accessories, and art-inspired goods. Yeah, you’ll be amazed by an expertly curated collection of modern design pieces that scream MoMA’s avant-garde style.

Say Hello to the Empire State Building

⭐️ Rating: 4.6/5 (8,631 Reviews) Price: $48 per person Duration: 45 min to 1 hour 📍 Meeting Point: Meeting point may vary depending on the option booked Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

From the Flatiron Building, it’s an 11-minute walk up Fifth Avenue to the Empire State Building.

Personally, I wouldn’t go to the top since tickets are beyond expensive and I kind of feel like the views from the Top of the Rock are better.

However, this is one of the most famous attractions in New York City with its arco deco style and architectural grandeur.

So, I totally understand if you feel like you need to add a trip to the top of the Empire State Building to your 4 days in New York itinerary.

That’s why, if you have a dying need to ascend to the top, then be prepared to spend $42.00 (per person) on a ticket that will grant you access to an open-air, observation deck on the 86th floor that is currently the highest viewing platform in the city.

From here, you’ll be treated to some pretty awe-inspiring views of the Hudson River, the East River, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Statue of Liberty.

And if you’re willing to pay a little extra, you can even visit the indoor observation deck on the 102nd floor or check out the Dare to Dream exhibit on the 80th floor, which details the history of this iconic skyscraper and the people who helped build it.

Not surprisingly though, lines can be hella long. So, try and stop by on a weekday between 8:00 am and 11:00 am, when the Empire State Building isn’t quite as crowded since that is probably the best time to visit the Empire State Building.

Also, be sure to get an Express Pass (only sold in advance online) beforehand so that you can bypass the long lines altogether.

“Quintessential New York City experience. Everyone can find views of the city they relate to. The museum was very good and tipped the scales on the value of the experience.” Eric ( read more reviews now! )

And while the view from the Empire State Building is even more awesome at sunrise and sunset, you will have to pay a little extra to catch the view at this time of day. You’ll also have to book well in advance since both time slots are limited to 100 people daily.

Okay, after admiring the greatness of the Empire State Building, you may be a bit hungry, depending on whether you decided to go to the top or not.

If you are famished, you can always eat in Koreatown (it’s literally right here) or stop by one of the food stalls at the Pennsy Food Hall. Trust me, the food here is SOO good and relatively inexpensive too (they have good vegan options too).

Otherwise, if you can hold off on eating for just a little while longer (I promise, I will totally make it work it’s worth your while), then walk on over to the Vessel and Hudson Yards.

Marvel at the Vessel

After a short twenty-minute walk, you’ll arrive at NYC’s one and only, The Vessel.

It’s a slightly wonky-looking, beehive-shaped structure that is a relatively new addition to NYC’s recently revitalized Hudson Yards area.

And if I’m being brutally honest (and I always am) it’s one of those beyond bizarre buildings that you’ll see for the first time and legit won’t be able to decide if it’s pretty pretty or pretty ugly.

Well, either way, it’s still a super cool place to do some photography and get some amazing views of the nearby Hudson River.

Plus, the design of the building itself is super cool and unlike anything you’ve ever seen before.

And if you want to go to the top: you’ll for sure get your daily cardio workout in since you’ll have to climb no less than 2,000 stairs to get there. Or, you could just take the elevator to the top and avoid any non-essential physical activity.

Thankfully though this creative, new, immersive art installation is totally free and open to all! Although, you will want to secure your spot at the top by pre-booking your tickets online, up to 2 weeks in advance.

Or, if you like to live dangerously, you can also try to score some same-day tickets when you get there (PSST… If you want to reserve tickets up to 6 months in advance, then you will need to purchase a $10, Flex Pass ticket from their website.).

Depending on your current level of exhaustion, feel free to walk along as much, or as little, of the Highline as you can endure.

Walk the Highline

Because this beyond beautiful public park overlooks Manhatten’s West Side and is built atop a historic, 1.45-mile-long section of a former freight rail line.

First opened in 2009, this unique green space was saved from demolition by local residents and has since become a fantastic place for visitors and locals alike to enjoy a fantastic combination of nature, art, and design.

That’s why, a leisurely stroll along this pedestrian walkway through Chelsea, and the famous meatpacking district, is a total must for anyone planning 4 days in NYC.

And if you get hungry along the way, you can always drop by Artichoke Basille’s Pizza (located at 10th avenue) for an enormous slice of delicious, spinach and artichoke pizza. or head to the legendary Chelsea Market for a bit of shopping and some more foodie fun since there are some delightfully delicious eats to be found here.

Once at Chelsea Market, you can go to Lobster Place for delicious seafood, Miznon’s for a folded cheeseburger pita, Los Tacos No. 1 for Mexican fare, and Fat Witch Bakery for some fudgy brownies. Because there really is so much to eat and so little time.

After exploring Chelsea Market, what you do is totally up to you. But, here are a few things you can do:

Visit One of the Museums You Missed Yesterday

It will be a bit of a trek but you can always explore one of the museums you didn’t get to yesterday, like the MET, the Natural History Museum, MOMA, or even the Guggenheim on the Upper East Side. However, it will be annoying to get there since they are all uptown.

The Whitney Museum of American Art

I feel like this museum is incredibly underrated but it’s super good and is literally right here since it sits at the end of the Highline. Plus, this amazing place is home to an impressive collection of 20th and 21st-century American art that includes pieces done by Edward Hopper, Alexander Calder, and Georgia O’Keefe.

The museum is also home to an expansive, top-floor, outdoor, roof-top area that offers guests impressive views of the nearby Hudson River. And if you’re on a budget, swing by on a Friday evening, between 7:00 pm and 9:30 pm, when the museum sells tickets for pay-what-you-wish prices.

To avoid long lines though, book your tickets in advance and try to visit on Thursday evenings, between 8:00 pm and 10:00 pm, when the museum is much less crowded.

The Frying Pan

Open between May and October, the Frying Pan is a cool, NYC bar that sits atop a former lightship that was used by the US Coast Guard. So, if you’re looking for a vibrant bar scene, that swing on by Pier 66 so that you sip on a drink and enjoy some stellar views of the nearby Hudson River.

Whatever you do though, skip the upscale bar menu of burgers, tacos, and salads since the food here is not my fave. But, the atmosphere and views alone make this place well worth a trip.

Sleep No More

If you have the money to spend (and by money I mean like $159 per ticket), then definitely check out Sleep No More at the nearby, McKittrick Hotel. It’s a unique, immersive, theatrical experience that is a modern retelling of Shakespeare’s classic Macbeth.

Upon entry, you’ll receive a white mask (so if you wear glasses, make sure to wear contacts) that will let performers know you’re not actually a cast member. And once the show actually begins, it becomes an almost choose-your-own-adventure like performance since the action takes place in different rooms throughout the hotel.

And yes, this is a HIGHLY immersive show. So, the actors will come up to you and interact with you as if you were part of the cast.

That’s why you should expect to receive whispers in the ear and kisses on the hand. But don’t freak out since the actors are trained to gauge people’s level of comfort.

Hit Up One of the Many Clubs in the Meatpacking District

I’m pre-geriatric and like to be home well before midnight. Accordingly, I’m not super familiar with the club scene in NYC’s uber-trendy Meatpacking District.

But, I do that clubs do exist here and are pretty popular among all the club kids. So, since you’re already in the area, you can always stop by and party the night away until the wee hours of the morning.

4 Days in New York Itinerary: Day 3 (The Staten Island Ferry and the Financial District)

So:, we’re gonna start off day 3 of this 4 days in New York itinerary in the Financial District.

Now, this part of this city isn’t known for its beyond delicious food.

However, you can always stop by Leo’s Bagels for a traditional and utterly delicious New York style bagel or breakfast sandwich since this low-key deli has all the hand-rolled bagels, iconic cream cheese spreads, and other deli staples that you could possibly want.

But, if you’re thinking of getting up a bit later in the day (or are looking for something a bit more formal) than stop by La Parisienne. It’s a cozy, French cafe/bakery that has beyond cute, super Instagrammable decor.

The service is also fast and friendly, so if you want to have a quick meal, that is no problem. Their coffee is also delicious (as is the brew at nearby Black Fox Coffee) as is their avocado toast, the croissant au chocolate, and the French Toast with almonds.

Once you feel adequately satiated, it’s a quick walk to the Charging Bull statue (FYI, the statue is 5-minutes from Leo’s Bagels and an 8-minute walk from La Parisienne).

Stop for a Photo at the Charging Bull Statue

Truth be told, there isn’t all that much to do here besides take a photo with the Charging Bull.

And not surprisingly, this place is a total tourist mecca. So, if you want a photo sans people, or just don’t feel like waiting in a ridiculously long line during your 4 days in NYC, then you’ll have to get here hella early. Like at the crack of dawn.

However, the New York Stock Exchange and the Fearless Girl Statue are both right nearby and just a short 5-minute walk away. So, you can always go there if you’re looking for something else to do.

Plus, both of these places are also right next door to the next stop of our 4 days in NYC journey, Federal Hall.

Learn About the History of New York at Federal Hall

Located at 26 Wall Street, Federal Hall is immediately identifiable with its Greek-Revival style architecture. Because yes, it really does look like something straight out of Athens.

However, walk inside and you’ll discover a place where colonist’s protest letters to King George were drafted, where George Washington was sworn in as president, and where the first US Congress eventually took place

Fun Fact: The original Federal Hall was demolished in 1812. This building is an 1842 reconstruction of the original that sits on the same location as the first structure).

Now, is it the most impressive museum in NYC? Hell to the no.

But, it’s free to enter (Monday through Friday from 9:00 pm to 5:00 pm), has a visitor’s center (here you can watch an intro video and speak with a park ranger) that offers guided tours of the building, is home to a museum shop and includes the beautiful, Washington Inaugural Gallery.

So, soak up all the history goodness before basically crossing the street and exploring Trinity Church.

Pay Your Respects to Alexander Hamilton at Trinity Church

Okay, I’ve got a fun little factoid for you. Believe it or not, Trinity Church was actually the tallest building in the city upon its completion in 1846.

Yup, totally shocking but also totally true.

And although the 280-foot tall bell tower of this historic church has long since been eclipsed by its ultra-modern, skyscraper neighbors (This is also the third version of the church since the original was destroyed by a fire in 1776, while the second building was demolished in 1839), this iconic center of worship is still well worth a visit during your 4 days in NYC.

So, be sure to step inside this Gothic Revival-style, Episcopalian parish, and marvel at the beautiful stained glass window that sits above the altar.

Afterward, take a walk through the churchyard and pay your respects to the cemetery’s most famous resident, Alexander Hamilton, who served as the United States’ first secretary of Treasury and who has now, recently, been made famous again by the Broadway show, “Hamilton”.

Pro Tip: If you’re into music, you can stop by for the Pipes at One organ recital series (at 1:00 pm on Fridays, enjoy evening choral performances, or an annual December rendition of Handel’s famous Messiah.

From here, it’s a short, 10-minute walk to the next stop on our 4 days in NYC tour, the Oculus.

Admire the Modern Architecture of the Oculus

Trust me when I tell you that the Oculus is a true marvel of modern architecture.

And while there isn’t too much to do here besides taking copious amounts of photos, you can always walk around this part shopping mall/part transportation hub and enjoy the feel of this place.

You can also pay your respects to all those who lost their lives during the 9/11 attacks on the World Trade Center since the Oculus is actually built atop Ground Zero.

The 9/11 Memorial and Museum are also right next door, so you can stop by after enjoying all the Oculus has to offer.

Pro Tip: If you’re in need of a little caffeinated awesomeness, then stop for a coffee at Aroma Espresso Bar. Not only do they serve great espresso-based drinks, but you can also admire the beautiful interior of the Woolworth Building while you’re here).

***If you love killer views of the NYC skyline, and don’t mind paying for them, you can always grab a ticket and check out the One World Observatory . Because the observation deck on the 94th floor of the One World Trade Center.

Plus, this building is currently the tallest structure in the Western Hemisphere and the sixth tallest building in the world (By pinnacle height. Whatever that means.).

And per usual, definitely book your tickets well in advance since lines can be insanely long. I’d also try to save some money by ascending only one of New York’s most iconic skyscrapers. So, if I had to pick between the One World Observatory, the Top of the Rock, and the Empire State Building viewing platform, I’d go with the Top of the Rock. ***

Now, if you’re feeling a bit hungry at this point in your 4 days in NYC, and I definitely can’t blame you for that, then stop by Hole in the Wall Cafe for some delightfully delicious Australian-inspired fare.

It’s just a 15-minute walk from the Oculus and is a hipster-chic cafe that serves up some delicious coffee in addition to killer power bowls and some delightful mushrooms on toast.

And while the interior is a bit cramped and the prices are a bit high, the quality of the food and service makes this place totally worth a visit ( if you’re looking for something slightly fancier, you can always stop by 15 Felice Gold Street for a lovely, sit-down meal filled with delicious Italian food).

Pay Your Respects at the 9/11 Memorial and Museum

⭐️ Rating: 4.8/5 (9,741 Reviews) Price: $20 per person Duration: Valid for 1 day 📍 Meeting Point: World Trade Center site Details: Read more on Get Your Guide Now!

So, this next stop on our 4 days in NYC tour is a little difficult for me to talk about. Especially since I was in New York City that day and remember those tragic events all too well.

That’s why although I have been to the 9/11 Memorial, it took my years to visit the 9/11 Museum .

Yeah, the subject matter is still too emotionally charged for me, especially since I knew people who died that day and watched in horror as my brother (a police officer) sifted through rubble in search of survivors.

Therefore, if the museum is a bit too intense for you, feel free to just visit the Memorial instead.

It sits on the exact spot where the Twin Towers once stood and is a beautifully somber, but altogether moving tribute to all the people who lost their lives on that day.

“The exhibition is incredibly exciting, but I would recommend the audio guide for an additional $10. We were in the museum for a total of 5 hours because we were so captivated. Sometimes I had to hold back my tears, because the stories of the victims are very touching. I find the place very successful to commemorate all the victims and to honor the heroes of the police and fire brigade.” Friederike ( read more reviews now! )

However, if you do have the time and the right mindset for it, I highly recommend visiting the 9/11 Museum ( Get your tickets in advance now though since lines can be long).

It not only enhances your understanding of the history and events of that fateful day but it pays great honor to all those who lost their lives.

After exploring the area, you can either take a twenty-minute walk to the Whitehall Ferry Terminal or hop on the R/W train at Cortlandt Street station and get off at Whitehall Street station since the ferry is a short walk from there.

Take a Ride on the Staten Island Ferry

Okay, you obviously cannot do a 4 days in NYC itinerary without seeing the Statue of Liberty.

Truthfully though, the Statue of Liberty tour is slightly expensive and a bit overrated.

Because yes, I’ve done it. And not surprisingly, it’s pretty lame. I mean, there’s really not all that much to do on Liberty Island once you get there, besides go to the top of the Statue of Liberty.

And while the view is nice, you can’t really snap any great photos of Lady Liberty since you’re standing right on top of her.

That’s why, I’d skip the Statue of Liberty tour altogether and take the Staten Island Ferry instead.

Pro Tip: if you’re into history then consider visiting Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty since Ellis Island is amazing and a fascinating place to explore. I’ve been many times and never turn down an opportunity to go back.

So, if you opt to board the Staten Island Ferry, then you’ll be delighted to know that it’s totally free and that it will give you beyond stunning views of the Statue of Liberty as it sails across New York Harbor, from Manhattan to Staten Island.

Fun Fact: The Staten Island Ferry is currently cheaper than it was in 1817 when a round trip ticket cost $0.25.

Typically, the ferry ride lasts around twenty-five minutes. And annoyingly enough, you will have to get off the ferry in Staten Island and then reboard again to make the trip back to Manhattan.

But, on the plus side, the ferry runs twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, with boats departing every 15 to 30 minutes.

However, the ferry can get beyond crowded during rush hour, weekdays between 6:00 am and 9:30 am, and again between 3:30 pm and 8:00 pm, so you may want to board the ferry at basically any other time of day.

Enjoy the Rest of Your Night in the City that Never Sleeps

Okay, depending on what time it is after you take a ride on the Staten Island ferry, there are a couple of different things you can do.

Take a ride on the Seaglass Carousel – O=M=G! I am obsessed with this carousel since it is made of these wicked awesome, translucent fish that twirl around in circles.

So, if you’re looking for a unique experience during your 4 days in NYC, or if you are traveling with kids, then this is something fun to do after riding the Staten Island Ferry. Besides, tickets are just $5 and the carousel is literally right inside of Battery Park.

Explore the Museum of the American Indian – This museum is also just a hop, skip, and a jump away from the Staten Island Ferry. Plus, it’s totally free to visit and is incredibly underrated in my humble opinion.

It’s also part of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian and features a wealth of contemporary and historical exhibits of art and artifacts by and about the indigenous people of the Americas.

Grab a Drink at the Dead Rabbit Grocery and Grog – This place is nothing fancy but the drinks are good and the decor is fun. They also have a menu full of delicious, traditional British pub grub favorites like Scotch Eggs and Blood Pudding (The Cowgirl Seahorse is another great bar in the area.

I personally like their food better since they serve delicious sweet potato soup, as well as ‘The Ranch Hand’, which consists of country ham, two fried eggs, grits, red-eye gravy, and a piece of cornbread).

Enjoy a Fancy Dinner at Delmonico’s – If you wanna be posh AF and enjoy an uber-fancy dinner, then Delmocio’s is the place to go. I mean, this restaurant is practically a New York institution and is known for their iconic, Benedict Burger, which truly is the stuff that all your gastronomic dreams are made of.

Attend a Comedy Show at The Comedy Cellar – To get here, you will have to ride the subway, However, the trip is totally worth it since The Comedy Cellar has one of the best, and cheapest comedy shows in all of NYC.

Because performances here cost just $17 (plus you must order at least two beers) per person and sometimes feature high profile comedians like Dave Chapelle, Amy Schumer, Sarah Silverman, and more.

Plus, if you get the late-night munchies after the show, you can always stop by Mamoun’s Falafel for some of the best falafel in the city.

Grab a drink at Please Don’t Tell – Hop on the subway and visit a secret, East Village speakeasy that doubles as one of the coolest restaurants in NYC . Because in addition to the bar’s delicious drinks and old-timey decor, guests will have to enter the establishment through a non-descript, vintage phone booth at neighboring Crif Dogs (They have really good hot dogs, as does Gray’s Papaya).

And once you do find this magical phonebooth of wonder, you’ll need to dial a super-secret access code to actually get into the place.

4 Days in NYC Itinerary: Day 4 (Brooklyn and Beyond)

Ready to start your final day of this 4 days in New York itinerary?

Of course, you are! Because New York City is awesome and you want to make the most of your time here.

That’s why, I’d suggest you take the 4,5, or 6 train City Hall. Because our first stop is the Brooklyn Bridge since we’ll bet getting outside of Manhattan and exploring all that Brooklyn has to offer today.

And if you’re in need a bit of sustenance before you begin your epic trek across the Brooklyn Bridge, then feel free to stop by any of these places for a delicious breakfast.

Balthazar – Located in Nolita, this foodie institution serves up amazing baked goods, croissants, and bread. You can either have a nice sit-down meal or grab a pastry to go from their bakery.

Jack’s Wife Freida – This is an understated, lively bistro in Nolita that serves delicious, fusion, Mediterranean, and American cuisine. It’s popular though so you will have to wait in line. But, whatever.

This place is worth the wait. Especially for delicious brunch items like the Green Shakshouka, which is green tomatillo sauce served with Maya’s Breakfast Bowl (scrambled or poached eggs, red quinoa, kale, spaghetti squash, grilled tomato, and avocado).

The Smith – This brunch hotspot has locations all across the city and serves up classic, American brunch dishes with a bit of a twist, like their Ranchero Scramble which includes perfectly scrambled eggs, black beans, cheddar, avocado, and chipotle salsa that is set atop some freshly made corn tortillas. Just make a reservation since this place is pretty popular.

Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge

So while you can definitely sleep in, you still might want to get up early. I mean, walking across the Brooklyn Bridge isn’t exactly the most original idea on this 4 days in New York itinerary.

That’s why, not surprisingly, the Brooklyn Bridge gets hella crowded as it gets later in the day.

Therefore, if you don’t want your Brooklyn Bridge selfies to be inadvertently photobombed by twenty strangers, then try to visit the bridge when most people are still deciding what to eat for breakfast.

But, time out. What do you do once you have walked the expanse of the Brooklyn Bridge? Oh my dear friend, explore DUMBO of course!

Explore DUMBO

And in case you’re not in the know, DUMBO actually stands for, Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass.

Because thankfully this formerly gross, industrial center has been transformed into a beautiful urban area that is awash with riverside parks, stunning photo ops, and delightful street art murals.

There are also a ton of uber-trendy, hipster hotspots that are well worth exploring.

I know I for one am definitely not hip enough to hang out in any of these places but, luckily for me, these fine Brooklyn establishments are accepting of me and my inherent uncoolness.

So, take a scenic walk along some of the area’s charming cobblestone streets. And when you’re done, some of the other things you might want to do in DUMBO include:

• Admire some of the area’s beautiful street art murals.
• Take a ride on Jane’s Carousel
• Check out some of the delicious food stalls at Time Out Market which include offerings from Ice & Vice, Dö (edible cookie dough), Bklyn Wild, Jacob’s Pickles, Clinton St. Baking Company, and more!
• Relax and have a cup of coffee at Brooklyn Roasting Company
• Search for hidden treasure and antiques of every variety at Brooklyn Flea. And FYI, it’s a seasonal, outdoor market that is open Sundays between 10:00 am and 5:00 pm.
• Walk around Brooklyn Bridge Park and take in some of the stunning views here.
• Take an iconic shot of the Manhattan Bridge from the corner of Washington Street and Water Street. Trust me, this is one of the best photo spots in the entire city.
• Grab an ice cream from the Fireboat House
• Read a Book at Powerhouse Arena.
• Enjoy some theatrical performances at St. Anne’s Warehouse.

So, spend as much, or as little, time as you like here. However, before you leave, you must order a pizza from Juliana’s for lunch.

Trust me, the pizza here is way better than whatever you’ll find at nearby Grimaldi’s.

Next, take the subway to the Bushwick Collective, a street art mecca of sorts that is perfect for art lovers of every variety. Just board the F Train at York Street station, take it to 14th street station.

Proceed to get off and transfer to the L before taking that train to Jefferson Street Subway station, and walking to the Bushwick Collective from here.

Pro Tip: Along the way, get off at the Lorimer Street station on the L and grab a unicorn latte from the End Brooklyn ($9 ridiculous).

You can then get back on the L and get off at the Graham Avenue station to visit the Bagel Store, the original home of the rainbow bagel. They also have an Artichoke Basille’s Pizzeria at the Bushwick Collective if you want to get a piece of pizza instead.

Check Out the Street Art at the Bushwick Collective

Phew, that was a lot of practical information to get out of the way.

But, we got through it and have FINALLY made it to the Bushwick Collective as part of our 4 days in NYC itinerary.

Once here, just walk out of the subway and you’ll be amazed by the insanely diverse and stunningly beautiful number of murals that proliferate the walls of this quirky, and slightly grungey, neighborhood.

Literally, everywhere you look you’ll find amazing examples of street art murals that are beautifully symbolic of the political and social issues that currently affect New York City.

My suggestion? Have your camera at the ready and take your time exploring the fabulous artwork here.

For me, the art here is something to be savored and not just rushed through so that you can tick it off your 4 days in NYC itinerary.

Make sure to take some time to stop and contemplate the beautiful art at the Bushwick Collective. Therefore:

Definitely meander through the streets and contemplate the meaning behind many of these powerful pieces.

Once You’ve Had Your Fill Of Artistic Beauty:

You can always grab a falafel from Queen of Falafel. The falafels here are fresh, hot, delicious, well-seasoned, and reasonably priced ($8 for a sandwich and $4 for a side of four).

Only downer?

No bathroom but I guess you can’t have your falafel and eat it too. Lol. Am I right? Okay, I’ll stop with the lame jokes, at least for now.

Spend Your Final Evening in Brooklyn

Since we’ve spent most of our 4 days in NYC in Manhattan, let’s take this opportunity to check out the vibrant, trendy, and altogether amazing nightlife scene Brooklyn is known for.

That’s why some things you might want to do in Brooklyn this evening include:

Have a beer and play some pinball at Sunshine Laundromat – Trust me, this is one of the best, low-key hangouts in all of Brooklyn.

Because this unassuming laundromat has a secret pinball arcade in the back where you can go and play a game on one of their 22 different pinball machines. Games also start at just $0.75 each, making this a fun, low-key, night out in Brooklyn.

Do some Karaoke at the Brooklyn Night Bazaar – If you’re looking for a more lively night out in NYC, then stop by the Brooklyn Night Bazaar on Greenpoint Avenue. It’s open Wednesday and Thursday from 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm and Friday through Sunday from 6:00 pm to 2:00 am.

Plus, they rent rooms by the hour so you can “sing” to your favorite pop songs in peace and without the looming threat of public embarrassment.

Enjoy a night of dancing at the Social Butterfl y – I’m not a club person but all my friends who are love going to the Social Butterfly for its high energy yet overall low-key vibe. They also play a great mix of old-school hip hop and RnB music, in addition to serving strong, yet affordable, alcoholic beverages.

Try Axe Throwing at Kick Axe Throwing – Looking for some REALLY unique things to do in Brooklyn to add to your 4 days in NYC itinerary? If so then embrace your inner lumberjack and try your hand at ax throwing at Kick Axe Throwing on Degrave Street.

And don’t worry, experts will be on hand to teach you exactly how to throw an ax. This way, you can enjoy some fun, and safe, competitive games with friends.

Enjoy a Nice Dinner at The River Cafe – If you want to celebrate your final evening in NYC with an elegant dinner, then head over to the River Cafe. It’s located right in DUMBO and offers diners sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline.

4 Days In NYC Bonus Tips: Day Trips From NYC

This restaurant also has a fantastic menu as well as a live piano player who can serenade you while you enjoy your meal (and don’t forget to save room for dessert).

NYC is really great but did you know that the entire state of New York is gorgeous? This is especially true if you love the great outdoors. So if this is your nth time in NYC and you want to do something beyond the usual touristy stuff during your 4 days in NYC, why not head out on some epic day trips? Here are some small town suggestions that will blow your mind.

Woodstock, NY: A tiny town in the Catskills area, Woodstock is famous for its rock and roll music. Yes! The Woodstock Music festival is what draws people here every year BUT there are loads of things to do in the area that often get overlooked. Hiking, tubing, shopping and music are just a few items on that list!

Sleepy Hollow, NY: Everyone has heard of Sleepy Hollow. This town skyrocketed to fame thanks to the story written by Washington Irving (and ofcourse the movie!). Sleepy Hollow is incredibly popular during Halloween. There are however loads of things to do in Sleepy Hollow at other times of the year. Plus, it is much cheaper and quite a bit of fun without the crowds!

Kingston, NY: If you are history buff then Kingston is the town for you. Laid back and relaxed, Kingston is a wee bit off the beaten track BUT it has a lot of interesting things to do . The Old Dutch church, the Kingston street art and the cultural heritage center should top your list.

4 Days In NYC FAQ

Is 4 days enough for new york city.

4 days in NYC is pretty great but mind you, this is just the bare minimum amount of time that would make the trip worthwhile. There is just so much to see and explore in the city that you would just have to keep coming back. I’ve been living here for years and still find myself running short on time. 4 days however may quench the travel lust just a little bit!

What Is The Cheapest Month To Go To NYC?

There is just no putting a good spin on this. NYC is an expensive city. You can however make it more budget friendly by choosing the right time of the year to travel. Avoid school holidays at all costs. Try to avoid the Christmas rush too! December is probably the most expensive time to visit.

The cheapest months to visit NYC would be between January to March. This is after the Christmas rush has passed. You would still get to see the blanket of snow on the city and do quite a lot of the activities but you would do it without the holiday chaos which makes it pretty perfect if you ask me.

What Is The Most Beautiful Month To Visit NYC?

This is certainly very different from each person to person. Many people love to catch NYC in a blanket of snow and to see all the different light displays. For them, December and January are without doubt the best time of the year.

Others love to see the fall foliage and the fall foliage in New York is spectacular. If this is you then the best time to visit is between the last week of September and the second week of October.

Late September to early November is the best time to visit when it comes to the weather. 

Can You Do NYC On A Budget?

Absolutely. You can backpack through the city and choose cheap accommodation. You would not stay in the heart of the city but that should not deter you. Plus there are loads of free things to do in the city and some really cool budget shopping areas too !

How many days should I spend in NYC?

I recommend spending at least 4 days in NYC to see and do as much as possible. There are numerous attractions and activities to enjoy, and even a week may not be enough to cover everything.

Can You See Everything in NYC in 4 days?

It is impossible to see everything in NYC in 4 days due to the city’s enormous size and endless number of attractions. But, you can definitely check out plenty of its highlights during this time frame.

Is New York Food Expensive?

Yes, New York food can be expensive, especially in fancy places and touristy spots. But don’t fret since there are lots of budget-friendly bites to be found at local food trucks and in small neighborhood joints.

How Expensive is NYC?

It’s no secret that NYC is expensive. We all know it’s one of the most expensive places in the world.

From housing to dining to entertainment, expect those bills to be high when spending four days in NYC. But don’t worry, there’s always something for every budget in the Big Apple.

Where Should you Stay in New York for the First Time?

If you’re hitting up NYC for the first time, Manhattan’s the place to be. Specifically, try and stay in and around Times Square, or in other parts of Midtown.

This way you’ll have easy access to sightseeing, restaurants, and local shopping.

⏰Looking for an amazing place to stay while in NYC but haven’t had the time to book your accommodation yet? Try Pod 39 . It is budget friendly and pretty luxurious for the price! ⏰

Additional New York City Resources You’ll Love

• Pros and Cons of Living in NYC
• 2 days in NYC
• Fun Brunch in NYC
• Best time to visit NYC

There you have it! That just about wraps up this 4 days in NYC itinerary!

Tell me, did your favorite 4 days in new york city itinerary activities make the list if not then let me know in the comments below, and if you found this post useful, don’t forget join our email list and then pin this post now so that you can read it again later.

Margarita Nantel

Sunday 1st of October 2023

Information put together nicely. Easy to pick up activities. Thank you.

travelnewyorknow

Tuesday 3rd of October 2023

Glad you found it helpful

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4-day itinerary in new york city: the ultimate nyc trip.

When it comes to the ultimate travel destination, few places can compare to New York City. If you’re planning your next trip (or first one) to the Big Apple, this 4-day itinerary in New York City will be your tour guide to the top sights and fun spots to explore.

It’s no secret that the city that never sleeps is a hub of culture, commerce, media, and entertainment. There are so many things to see and do that you’ll surely be overwhelmed when you start your planning.

This 4-day NYC itinerary packs in as much of the best bits as possible, without being too on the go every minute of every day. You’ll find yourself walking through iconic parks, eating slices of New York pizza, and watching Broadway shows, just the way New York is meant to be experienced.

Where to Stay in New York City See all hotel options

• Motto by Hilton Chelsea (Great city views, pet friendly)
• P endry Manhattan West  (smart room layout, 4 great food spots)
• The Kitano Hotel (4.5-star hotel, rooftop terrace)

Best Tours and Experiences in New York City:

• Central Park Zoo: Total Experience (4D theater, zoo, and Tisch Children’s Zoo)
• Empire State Building Entrance Tickets (main deck, day/night entry/express entry)
• One World Observatory Skip the Line Ticket (3 floors, breathtaking 360° views)

Tip : If you’re traveling around the US, read my United States travel guide .

» Spending time in New York City? Check out our essential city guide and see the top 25 touristy things to do , where to stay in the city, a perfect 4-day itinerary , plus fun activities in Central Park .

Best Affordable Luxury Hotel in NYC

Don’t have time to read the whole article? We think the all-around best choice is the…

Motto by Hilton New York City Chelsea

Table of Contents

Essential Info For NYC

Before diving into your New York City adventure, here are a few important tidbits of essential info. From traveling to NYC, getting around once there, and the best places to stay.

How To Get to New York City

Getting to New York City is probably the easiest part to plan. Your best option for international and domestic flights is JFK (John F. Kennedy) International Airport. Other options are LaGuardia International Airport in Queens and Newark Liberty International in New Jersey.

Getting Around in New York City

New York is a relatively walkable destination. Many of its most famous attractions are so close that, if planned well enough, can be reached on foot or by subway.

If you’re not a fan of walking, Uber and Lyft are excellent services to help you reach your destination. The downside is that rides are sometimes pricey. The same goes for NYC taxis.

New York City’s public transportation systems are top-notch so you can make use of the subway or buses throughout the city. Expect to pay about $2.75 regardless of where you’re going.

Where To Stay in New York

There are many unique area to stay in NYC and pretty much any of them will fits well into this itinerary. Base your choice on what you like most. Do you want to be in the middle of the action? Stay in Times Square. The Theater District or Midtown are excellent choices if it’s your first visit.

For the broadest offering of retail therapy, nightlife, and cuisine, choose either the Meatpacking District or Tribeca. Head to SoHo, Chelsea, or the Upper West Side for arts and culture.

The Financial District is a bit cheaper, but further away. The Upper East Side is more glitz and glamour. Stay in Brooklyn for slightly cheaper accommodations.

» For more information visit the 10 Best Areas to Stay in New York City.

Quick Picks: Affordable Luxury New York City Hotels

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Motto by Hilton Chelsea ✔️ Great city views ✔️ Pet friendly

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ P endry Manhattan West ✔️ Smart room layout ✔️ 4 great food spots

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️+ The Kitano Hotel ✔️ 4.5-star hotel ✔️ Rooftop terrace

Best Tours To Include in Your 4 Days in New York City

When it comes to tourist attractions in NYC, these are the best tours you definitely shouldn’t miss out on.

• New York in One Day Guided Tour
• Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tour
• Big Bus New York Hop-On-Hop-Off Tour

Should You Get a City Pass?

You can definitely maximize your New York City experience with a sightseeing passes, and save money at the same time. There are two main passes: Go City Pass and New York CityPASS .

Remember that even though you’ll get entrance for free, you do have to make a reservation for most places in advance. Don’t forget to do that, or you might be left out.

• New York Explorer Pass : Choose from a 2 to 10-attaction pass ranging from $71 to $193.
• New York CityPASS : The 5-attracion pass is $138 for adults (18+) and is valid for 9 consecutive days.

4-Day Itinerary in New York City

Day one – midtown manhattan, central park & times square.

From historical sites in Midtown, and the serenity of Central Park, to the excitement of Times Square. No trip to the Big Apple would be complete without the quintessential NYC attractions.

Spend the Morning in Central Park

Nothing screams New York like Central Park. A massive 800-acre park filled with fantastic, mostly free, things to do and see. Some of its most stunning sites include Shakespeare Garden and Strawberry Fields.

For some fun Central Park activities , there’s the Central Park Zoo, Belvedere Castle, and the Central Park Wildlife Sanctuary. There are also a number of monuments to seek out in the park.

If it’s a nice day, you can rent a boat or take a gondola ride from April to November on the Central Park Lake.

Go Museum Hopping

Next up is a few of New York’s famous museum. You can choose to explore them on guided tours or on your own, with each charging a $25 admission fee.

First up, just off the park’s east side, you’ll find the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum . It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is quite a sight from the outside and a treat on the inside too.

Sitting just below Central Park is the world’s largest art museum, the MET, or Metropolitan Museum of Art . It contains many works ranging from ancient Egypt to modern contemporary art.

Finally, you can opt to head to the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) . Here you can see iconic works by artists such as Van Gogh, Warhol, Picasso, and Dali.

Take a City Brew Tour

Did you know that there are tons of craft breweries in New York City? One of the best ways to sample the beer while having a great time is to take a City Brew Tour . Experience NYC’s beer brewing roots that date back to pre-prohibition as you explore by van what’s fermenting in the different neighborhoods of Brooklyn & Queens. Get VIP Behind-the-scene tours of your favorite breweries such as Brooklyn Brewery, Circa Brewing Co., Five Boroughs Brewing and many more!

• Enjoy up to 12 beer samples
• VIP access at 3 stops in Brooklyn
• Paired Snack
• City Brew Tours Swag
• Local knowledgeable guide
• Light walk between breweries >1.25 miles
• Convenient starting point (Metro card included)

Book a tour here

An Evening in Times Square

End your first day in NYC by visiting the epicenter of glitz, glamor, lights, and action — Times Square. The billboards all around are mesmerizing on their own, but add in the crazy amounts of people walking every which way, the constant stream of taxis, and all the shops and restaurants and you’ll be in sensory overload quickly.

For me, the best way to spend time in Times Square is to first just walk around and get the lay of the land, pop into shops, look up a lot, you know, just enjoy it.

Then stop by the TKTS booth and pick up some tickets to a play or show on Broadway. If you get in line early, you’ll get a better pick of what’s available, but you can still get tickets later in the day.

Once you have your tickets, then you should head to a pre-show dinner at one of the great restaurants in the area, and I’m not talking about the touristy TGIFridays or Hard Rock Cafe in Times Square. Skip those and head to Bar Centrale (you’re going to need to get reservations at least a week in advance), or 44&X on 10th Ave.

Day Two – Chinatown, Tribeca & The Financial District

Lower Manhattan is the perfect place to visit during a trip to New York City. Culture, cuisine, stunning neighborhoods, and iconic attractions can all be found there.

Dive Into Chinatown

Undoubtedly, one of the most fun areas to explore in NYC is Chinatown. Famous for its fantastic food and tourist highlights, exploring the busy sidewalks of this neighborhood is the perfect start to day two.

Columbus Park is a must-visit, where you can participate in Tai Chi classes and friendly chess games in a scenic park.

After indulging in some delicious food and culture, immerse yourself in the Museum of Chinese in America. Admission fees are between $8 and $12.

Discover the Hidden Gems of Tribeca

A very distinct and charming neighborhood in NYC is Tribeca. Considered an eclectic and fancy area, you’ll find world-class restaurants, boutique stores, and industrial buildings that double as art galleries.

For a midday bite and drink, head over to Nancy’s Whiskey Bar , a popular pub in Tribeca. On the menu, great food, and delicious craft beers and cocktails .

Explore The Financial District

As you move into the late afternoon and the evening of your second day in NYC, the Financial District is a great place for your day to come to a close. It is lined with buzzing restaurants, bars, and skyscrapers.

The World Trade Center and the National September 11 Memorial Museum are worth a visit. Thanks to reader Monica for offering this suggestion: “If you visit the World Trade Center Memorial, check out the World Trade Center Transportation Hub which is housed in the Oculus, an amazing structure which looks like the bones of a giant picked over fish.”

For epic photo ops, visit The Charging Bull Statue, Bowling Green Park, and Trinity Church.

End your night by plopping yourself in a seat at one of the pubs or cocktail lounges just east of Wall Street like Killarney Rose or Full Shilling.

Tours to Book

• Wall Street and Financial District Walking Tour
• 9/11 Memorial Museum Admission Ticket
• NYC One World Observatory General Admission Ticket

Day Three – Lower Manhattan, Ellis Island & SoHo

It’s time to dive into more of Manhattan, then indulge in true tourist fashion with a big hitter in NYC on Ellis island. Once back in the city, an evening of fun in SoHo awaits.

Morning Start in West Village      

A part of the larger neighborhood of Greenwich Village, West Village is the perfect place to start your exploration of Lower Manhattan. Its tree-lined streets are perfect for a morning stroll as you discover numerous cafes, bars, and restaurants.

After getting your daily caffeine dose, head to the famous Washington Square Park, the artistic IFC center, or the historic Stonewall Inn.

Catch a Ferry to Ellis Island & Visit The Statue of Liberty

Departing from Manhattan’s southern tip, behind Castle Clinton in The Battery, hop on the Liberty Island ferry. Once you arrive on Liberty Island, take a tour of the Statue of Liberty and tick this attraction off your bucket list.

Then, jump back on the ferry, making a quick stop at Ellis Island. Home to the National Museum of Immigration , it’s a must-visit if you have the time.

Explore SoHo

SoHo is where art, fashion, and trendsetters go when looking for some fun. And to wrap up day three, you’ll do much of the same. You’ll find many designer stores and vibrant, eclectic bars and eateries.

Take this tour: SoHo, Little Italy, and Chinatown Walking Tour in New York

Late afternoons here are best spent at Pearl Street Market, or if you’re in the mood for some tantalizing drinks, head to Sweet & Vicious . For something a little unique, The Back Room NYC, a prohibition-style bar, is the perfect nightcap.        

Day Four – Brooklyn & Williamsburg

As a last hoorah to your 4 days in NYC, your final day is all about Brooklyn and Williamsburg.

Venture Across The Brooklyn Bridge & Explore Brooklyn

Whether best experienced at sunrise or sunset, the Brooklyn Bridge is a fantastic sight to behold. You can easily opt for walking across it (which will take about an hour) or cycling over it.

Once you’re in Brooklyn, head over to the Dumbo area . One of the most popular of Brooklyn’s neighborhoods, you can visit the Time Out Market here. A 24,000 square-foot food market with hand-picked food stands by the editors of Time Out Magazine.

Discover Williamsburg

One of the trendiest areas in Brooklyn is Williamsburg. With many vintage stores, bars, and restaurants, it’s easy to fill more than one afternoon with everything there is to do in this area.

Visit the renowned Brooklyn Brewery , Smorgasburg , or Sunday in Brooklyn to taste the best food. As for live music and entertainment, look no further than Skinny Dennis or The Knitting Factory. End the night with stunning skyline views of Manhattan from the iconic Water Tower.

New York is an amazing destination and one that will definitely make you fall in love instantly. It’s a city where fun, excitement, and joy can be found around every corner. And with this 4-day NYC itinerary, you’re in for an absolute blast.

6 Essential NYC Travel Tips You Need to Know Before You Go 🚕

New York City awaits! Before you dive into the Big Apple, make sure you’re prepared with these 6 essential travel tips for a seamless, unforgettable experience 🌆🍎

• Master the Subway 🚇: Get around NYC like a local with their extensive subway system ( here’s a map! ) – save time and money by familiarizing yourself with the schedules . Fare for most riders on subways and local, limited, and Select Bus Service buses is $2.75.
• Pack Comfortable Shoes 👟: With so much to explore, you’ll be walking a lot! Bring supportive, comfortable walking shoes for all the sightseeing and adventures.
• Expect Unexpected Weather 🌦: New York City weather can be unpredictable – pack layers and be ready for anything from sunshine to sudden showers.
• Stay Street Smart 🚦: Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Travel scams are real.
• Discover Hidden Gems 💎: Venture beyond tourist hotspots to find local favorites and unique experiences – don’t be afraid to explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods !
• Embrace the Fast Pace 🏃‍♂️: NYC is always buzzing with energy, so prepare to keep up with the vibrant, fast-paced lifestyle and make the most of your time in the city.

Related Articles

• 10 Best Areas to Stay in New York City
• Manhattan Trip Planner Guide: Everything You Need to Plan Your Trip
• 6 Fun Activities in Central Park
• 25 Touristy Things to Do in Manhattan

Be Prepared For Travel Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

• Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
• Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
• Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
• Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

Like this post? Why not save it to Pinterest? FOLLOW US  on  Pinterest ,  Instagram ,  Facebook  for more great travel inspiration and tips.

Pin it for later

Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

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4 Day New York Itinerary: How to See the Best of NYC

If you have found your way to this post, you are ready for a fun-filled experience in the city that never sleeps. Have you been trying to figure out how to plan a trip to NYC for your 4 day New York itinerary? Feeling lost or maybe a little overwhelmed because of the endless possibilities? We are here to help you out. 

Below we have created a loaded New York in 4 day itinerary that highlights the best of the city. Living only an hour and a half from Manhattan , we visit the city pretty frequently to explore all attractions it has to offer.

With only 4 days in New York, you will want to get it right. Remember NYC is large and it is impossible to see it all in just one trip. Just know, no matter what you do and how you experience New York you are going to have a great time. 

This itinerary of New York will satisfy your needs and check all the major boxes for a classic trip to New York but leaving you wanting more. 

So let’s start the planning process and see how to spend each day with this New York 4 days itinerary.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, we get a small commission at no extra cost to you. It helps us create free content for you to enjoy. Learn more about our disclaimer here . Thanks for your support!

Who is this New York itinerary for?

This 4 day NYC itinerary is mainly designed for a first-time visitor who is looking to see the top NY landmarks, mixed with a twist of more hidden New York attractions. That means you will find many of the iconic NY landmarks on this 4 day New York itinerary, but also less touristy alternatives which are well worth a visit.

To be clear, New York City is made up of 5 boroughs: Manhattan , Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island. Since this itinerary for New York City is only for 4 days, it will exclusively focus on Manhattan, since most first-timers and even repeat visitors spend the majority of their time there. 

We have designed this 4 day itinerary for New York for the quick-paced traveler looking to see as much as possible on their trip. You can surely see a lot of New York for 4 days, but truly it could take months to enjoy all New York City has to offer. After completing this 4 days itnerary New York you will want to come back for more.

How to Get to New York  

Let’s quickly discuss the travel option for arriving in New York City. Since most travelers will be flying into New York, we will start with airports, then talk about buses, trains, and driving in. 

Airports 

International travelers will fly into either John F. Kennedy International Airport in Queens or Newark International Airport in Newark, New Jersey. U.S. domestic travelers also have the option to fly into LaGuardia Airport in Queens. 

• JFK International Airport – Each passenger terminal AirTrain directly links to the New York City Subway system, providing easy access to all of New York City. Find out more about public transportation at JFK . 
• LaGuardia Airport – This airport is much smaller than JFK International Airport but in closer proximity to Manhattan. For more information regarding accessible public transportation at LaGuardia .
• Newark International Airport – Although located outside of NYC, Newark services lots of New York travelers. It is also our personal favorite airport to use, mainly because it offers the easiest access. Find out more about public transportation at Newark if you are flying to this airport. 

There are many convenient bus lines that travel to New York City from around the United States and Canada. A major bus line is Greyhound. 

New York City has two main rail stations in Midtown Manhattan: Grand Central Terminal (on the east side) and Penn Station (on the west side). From each station, there is access to lots of subway and bus lines. 

Grand Central Station’s Metro-North Railroad services NYC suburbs in New York and Connecticut. 

Penn Station’s Long Island Railroad is a commuter train that services Long Island, and parts of Queens and Brooklyn. Amtrak is a U.S. national passenger railroad that connects many points in the United States and Canada. Last, the NJ Transit is a commuter railroad with services in New Jersey and parts of Pennsylvania. 

The PATH train is a rapid transit with considerable stops in New York City, and locations in Newark, Harrison, Jersey City, and Hoboken in New Jersey.

We would only suggest driving into New York City if you already live within driving distance of the city. 

Driving in NYC can be paralyzing for many drivers who are not used to this type of city maneuvering. Since we live close by, we always drive into the city because it is the cheaper option than taking the train. 

In case you do end up taking a car into NYC, here is our top tip to save money on those extra parking fees:

Download the ParkWhiz app on your phone and scan a central location for your trip to park your car. The app will pinpoint all parking locations with the price. Usually, if you park just outside of a more touristy area you can save quite a bit of money by walking a few extra blocks. On average we pay around $16-$20 for 12hrs. 

Once you park your car, leave it there. Walk and use public transportation to get around the city. 

Getting Around New York

The next step in your itinerary NYC trip planning process is knowing how you are going to get around New York. 

Getting around in New York City can be quite overwhelming at first but after you have weighed all your options it is actually quite easy. 

The method(s) you pick should depend on your budget, travel style, group size, comfortability, and itinerary plans.

Here is a brief synopsis of your options to get around for your itinerary of New York:

In our opinion, the best way to get around New York is by walking. You should literally walk wherever you can. 

Walking through the city streets allows you to see more, experience more, enjoy more, save money, and time. Yes, walking does actually end up saving you time during certain hours of the day. If you check your route on Google via the Metro, driving, or walking, sometimes walking is just as quick as other modes of transportation. 

Crazy huh. Do your best to avoid the struggle of New York City traffic and walk. 

Take the Subway

Using the Subway is our other preferred method of transportation to get around NYC. Plus riding the subway is an iconic NYC adventure in itself. It is by far the easiest way to get around New York City. 

Here are some things to know about using the NYC subway system. 

New York’s roads are set up in a grid pattern with the Avenues running north to south and streets going east to west. The notorious 5th Ave separates the east and west side. You can think of it as the spine of Manhattan. Broadway is slightly different from other NYC roads as it cuts the city on a diagonal. 

It is also important to know what type of MetroCard is best for you. You can choose a pay-per-ride or the 7-day and 30-day unlimited rides. We would suggest purchasing the 7-day unlimited ride card option. To buy the MetroCard will cost $1.00 + ride costs. 

Each ride on the Metro will cost $2.75 no matter the length of the trip. 

Use Uber & Lyft

Traveling by Uber and Lyft is better when you are traveling with a larger group because they can accommodate a variety of group sizes and will be cheaper than the cost of public transportation. Instead of paying per person per ride on the subway, a larger group could split the cost of ride sharing to keep costs lower. 

But the downside to using this method of transportation is getting stuck in the unpopular and unpredictable New York City traffic jams. 

Grab a Taxi

Hopping in an NYC taxi is very comparable to taking an Uber and Lyft. For some taking a trip in the famous yellow taxi is part of their NYC experience. 

Here are a few helpful tips for taking a taxi in NYC.

The small lit panel on top of the taxi with the taxi number tells it all. If only the center light is lit, then the taxi is available. When there is no lights lit, then the taxi is occupied. If the whole panel is lit, then the taxi is not picking anyone up and if you are close enough you can see that it says, “off duty.” 

To ensure a ride from the taxi, make sure to get in before saying where you would like to go. 

Hop into a Bus

You do have the option to use the buses in NYC but due to traffic, they are not always reliable with their time schedule. We would avoid using a bus unless the destination you are trying to get to on your 4 days New York itinerary does not have a good subway connection. You can use the same MetroCard you use for the subway on buses. 

After many trips to NYC, we have only used a bus once to get back to Manhattan from Brooklyn.  

Get a Rental Car

You will not need a rental car in NYC to get around. We do not recommend having a car for your 4 days New York itinerary. It is more of a hassle since you have to worry about a parking spot and parking costs.

NYC Travel Tip: NYC Sightseeing Passes

There are 2 main discount sightseeing passes for New York City, the Go City Pass , and the New York CityPASS . Before deciding on which pass to purchase, check out how each pass works, which attractions are offered, and how many you would like to visit.

Keep in mind that even though you will get free admission to your desired attraction, you might still have to make a reservation.

GO CITY- New York Explorer Pass or All-inclusive Pass

With the Go City New York Explorer Pass, you can choose from a 2-choice to 10-choice pass which ranges from $73 to $229. The pass is slightly cheaper for children ages 3 to 12. It is also less expensive than the New York CityPASS.

If you prefer to buy a pass for a day or multiple days, consider getting the All-inclusive Pass. You can explore as many attractions as you want from 1-10 days. The price ranges from $134 to $332.

NEW YORK CITY PASS

With the New York CityPASS , you can choose from a 3 attractions pass or a 5 attractions pass. The 5 attractions pass costs for adults (18+) is $129 and for children (6–17) is $109. The 3 attractions pass is $87 for adults (13+)and $67 for children (5–12). 

We would recommend getting the Go City New York Explorer Pass for your 4 days. You can get the 5 choices attraction pass for $147 which gives you free admission to the following attractions:

American Museum of Natural History

• Empire State Building

One World Observatory

• Ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
• 9/11 Memorial and Museum

4 Day New York Itinerary: Days in New York Overview

Day 1 activities: new york itinerary.

• Central Park
• American Museum of Natural History or The MET
• Walk down 5th Avenue to St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Rockefeller Center, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Radio City Music Hall

Times Square

• Theater District – Broadway Show

Day 2 Activities: New York Itinerary

Grand central station.

• Chrysler Building
• New York Public Library 

Bryant Park

The high line, chelsea market, little island, day 3 activities: new york itinerary .

• Washington Square Park

The Battery

• Financial District – Federal Hall, Trinity Church, Wall Street, New York Stock Exchange, Charging Bull Statue, Stone Street
• Brooklyn Bridge 
• Little Italy 

Day 4 Activities: New York Itinerary

• Ferry to Ellis Island and Statue of Liberty
• 9/11 Memorial 
• Oculus 

4 Day New York Itinerary

For the home base of this New York 4 day itinerary, we will use Midtown Manhattan, the heart of NYC, since most of the attractions are located there or can be reached easily from that district.

Itinerary for New York City: Day 1 – Central Park + Museum + Midtown

Let’s jump right into this itinerary for 4 day in New York. There is no time to waste, so we will be hitting up some of the most iconic NYC attractions today.

DAY 1 ACTIVITIES: NEW YORK ITINERARY

• American Museum of Natural History OR The MET
• Walk down 5th Avenue to St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Rockefeller Center, Radio City Music Hall

Morning : Visit Central Park

Start your first morning in New York by heading to Uptown Manhattan. Begin your day at one of the most iconic NYC attractions, Central Park. A stroll through Central Park is something you can’t miss experiencing while in New York. 

Tip: On your way, take a quick pit stop at Levain Bakery (167 West 74th Street) for cookies before the lines get too long. The bakery is widely famous for its chocolate chip cookies. 

Don’t forget exploring Central Park takes time and it is nearly impossible to see it all in a whole day. The Park is massive.

Some of the top attractions to see in the park are the Belvedere Castle, the bridges and arches throughout the park, the Carousel, Bethesda Fountain, Central Park Zoo, and the Mall. You can also choose to explore by foot, rent a bike , or hop on a variety of tours through the park . 

To maximize your time in Central Park, try to map out your route ahead of time with the sights you would like to see. 

Afternoon: Check out a Museum

After exploring everything Central Park has to offer, you well deserve a snack to fuel up for your upcoming museum experience. If you don’t mind walking a little more, we can highly recommend grabbing a bite to eat at Carmine’s Italian Restaurant on the Upper West Side. 

Otherwise, keep your eyes open for the famous New York hot dog stands or grab a slice of pizza. You can’t leave NYC without trying these specialties at least once.

This afternoon, you can choose to explore either the American Museum of Natural History on the Upper West Side or The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The MET) on the Upper East Side of Central Park in the afternoon. 

As travel nerds, we personally prefer the American Museum of Natural History but in general, both museums are great to visit. You will most likely need about 2.5 to 3.5 hours at the American Museum of Natural History, whereas, you should plan for 3 to 5 hours to visit The MET. 

Here is a little insight into both museums:

The American Museum of Natural History is the second most visited museum in NYC and has so much to offer from all over the world. Spend your time in the museum by traveling from America to Africa and the Universe. You can learn about all the natural history of an area including the animals, the people, and their culture. 

If you are into dinosaurs, don’t forget to make it to the top floor to check out these amazing creatures.

Click here to view a map of the museum (available to download in 12 languages).

The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The MET)

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is the most visited museum in NYC with more than 6 million visitors a year. It has one of the largest art collections (2 million pieces) in the world which presents over 5,000 years’ worth of art.

The museum consists of 2 buildings in 2 different locations within New York City. Its main building is located within Central Park, while a much smaller museum is located at the MET Cloisters in Fort Tryon Park in Upper Manhattan. The admission ticket includes same-day entry to both Met locations.

SPYSCAPE is a smaller, more unknown interactive museum that is all about spying. It is so much fun to test your spy skills and gain more knowledge in the seven different experience areas: Briefing, Encryption, Deception, Surveillance, Hacking, Special Ops, and Intelligence.

Once you are done visiting whatever museum you choose, the first part of your first day on your 4 day NYC itinerary is already over. So what is next?

Evening : Visit Midtown Manhattan

Take a walk down 5th Avenue towards Midtown to check out St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Rockefeller Center, Radio City Musical Hall, and then of course Times Square. 

St. Patrick’s Cathedral

The most famous Cathedral in New York City welcomes millions of visitors each year from many different nationalities and religious beliefs. No matter who you are, St. Patrick’s Cathedral is open for you.

We like to visit the Cathedral during Christmas time after we have admired the Rockefeller Christmas Tree and checked out the window displays at Saks 5th Avenue.

Rockefeller Center

There are a lot of things to do and see within Rockefeller Center . You can shop, dine, or just explore.

However, one of the things the Rockefeller Center is best known for is the Rockefeller Christmas tree . Every year during the holidays, they bring a massive tree into the city and place it in Rockefeller Center. During this time, the square is packed with visitors enjoying the tree, snapping a picture, and even skating on the ice rink, getting in the spirit of the holidays.

If you happen to not be visiting during the holiday season, a detour to the Rockefeller Center is still a great idea. Just check out the beautiful square or decide to get one of the best views of NYC from the Top of the Rock observation deck right at the top of Rockefeller Center. 

We would suggest trying to visit right around sunset so you can see the stunning daily transformation of New York City from the bright daylight to the illuminations at night.

Radio City Music Hall

Take a stroll past Radio City Music Hall to check out and snap a photo of the iconic marquee and building outside.

Note: If you happen to be more interested in Radio City Music Hall, you can attend a show or take a behind the scenes tour. However, this is not accounted for in this 4-day New York itinerary so you would need to adapt this itinerary for New York or spend more days in New York. 

Honestly, is it even a trip to the Big Apple if you don’t see Times Square?

Although Times Square is a major tourist attraction, it is an absolute must if it is your first time visiting Manhattan. 

There is something about this place that makes you want to just stand still for a second, look all around, and take in the feel of the bustling square. No matter how often you visit, it always looks different due to the changing displays on the screens. Here, you will get the real “feeling” of being in Manhattan. 

No matter what time of day you visit Times Square it will always be packed with people. If you can, try to see Times Square during the day and at night.

Top Tip: Grab a bite to eat at a restaurant of your choice around Times Square. If you can get in, a cool place to eat is Ellen’s Stardust Diner, a multi-level 50’s themed diner which features singing and dancing waiters and waitresses waiting for their chance to make it on Broadway. 

Night Time : Watch a Broadway Show

Now that the daylight has faded, it is time to enjoy the nighttime in NYC in one of the most classical ways, watching a Broadway show. 

New York City is famous for its Broadway shows and the stunning Theater District. Seeing a show is truly an unforgettable experience in NYC. 

Broadway shows do not even have to be expensive if you know some good tricks. There are a few ways to get around the high price tag to keep your itinerary for New York more budget-friendly. 

Note: For more information check out our New York City Travel Tips section below to plan a trip to NYC → #12 Pay less for Broadway shows. 

By this time you are either completely exhausted or hyped up after your first full day in New York. However you are feeling, be sure to get a good night’s rest to start fresh for day 2. 

Itinerary for New York City: Day 2 – More of Midtown Manhattan + Surrounding Neighborhoods

Get up. It is time to spend another wonderful day exploring New York City. There is so much to see and so little time. Today, there is lots of walking on our itinerary for NYC, so put some comfortable shoes on.

DAY 2 ACTIVITIES: NEW YORK ITINERARY

Morning : Explore Grand Central Station, the New York Public Library, and Bryant Park

Start your day off by going to Ess-a-bagel (831 3rd Ave in Midtown East) to grab a bagel loaded with one of their specialty cream cheeses. New York is world known for its bagels, and Ess-a-bagel perfected this boiled bread product.

Then walk down 3rd Ave towards 42nd street to check out the architecture of the Chrysler building. 

You can’t take a trip to Manhattan and not see Grand Central Terminal. It is the famous commuter rail terminal in the city of Midtown Manhattan. However, it is not just a transportation hub but a shopping, dining, and history center. So if you are not riding one of its rails, make sure to still stop by to see the beautiful architecture inside. 

One of the main attractions in the Terminal is the four-faced opal clock, which is in the center of the Main Concourse above the information booth.

We also suggest checking out the Whispering Gallery next to the Oyster Bar and Restaurant in the dining concourse. When you whisper into one of the ceramic arches in the corners, you can hear it in the parallel corner. Try this acoustic phenomenon yourself.

New York Public Library

The New York Public Library is not just the second largest library in the USA and the fourth largest in the world, it is also one of the most gorgeous libraries we’ve seen! 

Try to take the 11:00 AM FREE tour of the New York Public Library at the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building. Tours are offered Monday through Saturday for 60 minutes. You can reserve tickets online in advance.

Note: There is an additional tour offered at 2:00 PM but then this 4-day itinerary for New York would have to be adjusted. 

If you just want to take a quick look at the library’s main attraction, the Rose Main Reading Room, you can also opt for the quick 15 minutes tour which is offered a couple of times during the day. There is no advanced reservation needed, simply go to the McGraw Rotunda 30 minutes prior to the tour to sign up. 

After learning about the history, architecture, and collections in the library, head out the side entrance to meander through Bryant Park. 

Bryant Park is a beautiful park just behind the New York Public Library which is best known for its gardens and Christmas Market during the holiday season. 

After you have enjoyed the park, head down 6th Ave towards the Empire State Building. 

Afternoon : Enjoy stunning viewpoints of NYC

Don’t forget to grab some lunch. With so many great restaurants, eateries, and food trucks in NYC you should not have a problem finding something appealing to eat while walking to your next destination.

Empire State Building  

A visit to the Empire State Building is a staple for a trip to New York City. This 102-story Art Deco skyscraper is an essential part of the Manhattan skyline in Midtown Manhattan. 

Here you can take in views of NYC from two observation decks located on the 86th floor and 102nd floor. A major difference between the two decks is the 16 floors in between them, the vantage point, and the viewing style. 

The 86th floor is the main observation deck which gets often crowded but is an open-air platform that spirals around the building. One disadvantage of this deck is the obstructed criss-cross wiring pattern you have to look through to view New York City. 

For truly the best view of New York City, head to the 102nd-floor deck where you will see the entire length of Manhattan. This observation deck provides unobstructed views from the highest level of the Empire State Building with floor to ceiling glass windows. Try to spot the major NYC landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, Central Park, and much more. 

Make sure to purchase tickets for the observation decks at the Empire State Building in advance to be able to get in at your desired time.

Note: If you are on a budget you can just check out the building from the outside and enter the beautiful lobby to see all the marble. 

After leaving the Empire State Building, take a quick stop outside of the famous Macy’s store on 34th street between 6th and 7th Avenues. 

Continue down 34th street to the Hudson Yards neighborhood to explore the Edge NYC and or The Vessel which are located next to each other between 10th and 11th Avenues. 

One of New York’s newer observation points, Edge NYC, is the highest outdoor sky deck in the western hemisphere. We didn’t get a chance to admire the unparalleled New York view from the Edge yet but it is very high on our NYC bucket list.

Literally, take a step out on the edge of New York on the suspended mid-air platform which provides a rare viewing experience of the New York City skyline. When this isn’t enough, look down through the glass floors to see what the views of NYC from 100 stories above look like. 

Make sure to purchase tickets for Edge NYC in advance.

The Vessel 

The Vessel is a unique architectural building in NYC with a spiraling staircase that allows visitors to get a variety of perspectives, angles, heights, and vantage points of Manhattan. 

To reach the ultimate view of NYC you will have to take the 154 labyrinthine-style flights of stairs, which include almost 2,500 individual steps, and 80 landings climb. 

Note: We are waiting for a long time to finally visit the Vessel. Due to several suicides from the top of the construction, the iconic buildings keep getting closed down to improve the safety standards and avoid future incidents.

Unfortunately, the Vessel is still temporarily closed (as of June 2022) but you can visit the ground-level base for free during the opening hours.

After getting epic views of NYC, it is time to take a walk above the streets on the High Line.

The High Line is a 1.45-mile long park that is built on a historic freight rail line that is elevated from the streets in Midtown West. After the city of New York wanted to demolish the rail line in 1999, neighborhood residents decided to make a public park out of it that allows visitors to experience nature, art, and culture. 

There are many different access points to the High Line. It is accessible by stairs, elevators, or ramp assistance so that everyone can visit this special green space. 

The best way to enjoy the atmosphere of the High Line is to just wander around and check out some of the park’s cool art installations along the path.

Evening : Get more views in and relax at a comedy show

Before you get to the relaxing part in the evening which includes having a nice dinner and enjoying a comedy show, catch another view of NYC from one of the latest park additions in NYC.

Little Island is New York City’s newest green space located at Pier 55 in Manhattan. The area opened in the spring of 2021 and transformed the old pier into an artificial island park with romantic views of New York. 

The park includes eloquently designed walkways lined with flowers, trees, and shrubs, a lawn space, a 687-seat amphitheater, and an intimate stage. The whole park showcases gorgeous views of Hudson River Park, the Hudson River, and of course NYC views. 

Grab a one of a kind meal at Chelsea Market, one of the best food marketplaces in the world. No matter what you choose to eat, it will be a good meal. Take your time to enjoy the atmosphere. 

Gotham Comedy Club

We always love a good laugh, so if you are up to it, catch a show at the Gotham Comedy Club just a few blocks away from Chelsea Market. 

Alternative Activity: Flatiron Building

If you are into the beautiful architecture of NYC buildings, you may want to find time to fit in a stop at the Flatiron Building. 

The building has a unique triangular design which is admired by tons of visitors and photographers. Using a triangular design, the building was able to fill the strange shape of property at the intersection of 5th Avenue and Broadway. 

By this time your legs are pretty exhausted after walking around and exploring Midtown Manhattan and its surrounding neighborhoods. It is time to call it quits. Head back to your accommodation, rest up, and get ready for another exciting day in New York. 

Itinerary for New York City: Day 3 – Lower Manhattan + Financial District

You are now halfway through your 4 day New York itinerary. Today it is time to head downtown to Lower Manhattan and the Financial District to see more legendary NYC sites. 

DAY 3 ACTIVITIES: NEW YORK ITINERARY

Morning : Check out the Financial District

There is no time to waste on day 3, so get up early again. Lower Manhattan is filled with so many of our favorite NYC attractions. Don’t forget to pick up some breakfast. If it was us, we would get another NYC bagel, or go to the unique Dominique Ansel Bakery where you will find freshly brewed coffee and delicious pastries.

Your first stop as you make your way to the downtown area could be Washington Square Park.

Washington Square Park  

Washington Square Park is a 9.75-acre park in lower Manhattan located in the Greenwich Village neighborhood at the base of 5th Avenue between MacDougal Street and University Place. Inside the park, you will find playgrounds, a chess-playing area, fountains, dog areas, and restroom facilities. 

We like to enjoy Washington Square Park by hanging out on the lawn or one of the park benches for a little while just taking in the atmosphere. There is usually never a dull moment with crowds of people. Some people are there just to relax, others to skateboard around, or play their instruments. 

If you are not interested in people-watching or taking it easy this morning, you can skip a visit to Washington Square Park.

However, we would suggest stopping by Dominique Ansel Bakery (189 Spring St) on your way downtown to try the famous Cronut or DKA. 

Otherwise, head all the way to the end of Lower Manhattan and work your way back towards Midtown. 

The Battery is a 25-acre park located at the very southern tip of Manhattan looking out over the New York Harbor. 

Many visitors come to Battery Park to admire the view of the Statue of Liberty from across the way. Others like to stroll around and enjoy New York City’s outdoor atmosphere. However, you will find most of the crowds located near the docks waiting for the ferries over to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. 

After checking out the sights in the Battery, it is time to explore the famous landmarks in the Financial District. 

Here is what you will want to see in the Financial District on your itinerary for NYC . You can visit them in any order.

Bowling Green

This small public park is the oldest park in NYC and has a lot of historical significance for the city. 

Charging Bull Statue

The Charging Bull Statue is also known as the bull of Wall Street is an iconic symbol just north of Bowling Green park. It is an 11 feet tall, 16 feet long, and 7,100-pound bronze sculpture that depicts a bull that represents aggressive financial optimism and prosperity. 

Most visitors come to the statue to stand in long lines and snap a photo of themselves in front of the bull. 

Trinity Church 

Trinity Church is a historic parish filled with tons of history. It was actually the first church that was built in New York City. However, the church you see today is not the original. It is the 3rd version of the Trinity Church which was built in the 1840s. 

The church is the resting place for many famous New Yorkers. But the most famous resident is Alexander Hamilton, a founding father of the United States.

Federal Hall

A stop at the Federal Hall National Memorial is somewhat of a forgotten attraction in Manhattan’s Financial District. This historic building holds and represents a lot of our nation’s history. 

Before Washington D.C. was named the capital of the United States, New York was given that title. As the country established its own government, this was the building where the Continental Congress held meetings. It is also the home to many important legislations that took place such as the Bill of Rights, where the United States federal court system was created, and some of the first amendments to the Constitution were drafted.  

Unfortunately, the building you see today is not the original building. However, the building sits on the exact same site as the original. 

New York Stock Exchange

A visit to the New York Stock Exchange may not be a typical place in Manhattan to see but it is one of the most defining places in the city. It is the birthplace of business. Today, the New York Stock Exchange is one of the oldest and largest stock exchanges in the world. 

Unfortunately, the exchange is not open to the public anymore but you can still swing by the outside and grasp a feel for what it is like on the inside with major trades happening every minute. 

A fun way to experience the exchange from the outside is listening for the bell at 9:30 AM and 4:00 PM which marks the start of the day’s trading and the end of the day. Just make sure not to show up on a weekend or U.S. holiday because then you will definitely not hear the bell. 

Wall Street

Take a walk on Wall Street. It is an 8-block stretch from Broadway to South Street and the East River in Lower Manhattan. This is where the business happens. 

Stone Street 

Stone Street is a small cobblestone street and is one of the best places in Manhattan to find great drinks and restaurants. Here you can enjoy the old-school charm of Europe with the hipster vibe of New York City. 

Make sure to take a stroll on one of the oldest streets and first paved streets in the city .

Afternoon : Make your way to Brooklyn

Now that it is the afternoon, it is time for lunch before the hunger sets in. Grab something tasty to eat at one of the Stone Street restaurants or the nearby Fraunces Tavern, a historic restaurant that serves delicious drinks and pub food. 

Now that you are reenergized, it is time to make your way to the Brooklyn Bridge. 

Seaport District

On your way to the Brooklyn Bridge, stroll through the historic Seaport District and check out the waterfront. You can also get a nice view of the Brooklyn Bridge before walking across it. 

Brooklyn Bridge

The most famous bridge walk in Manhattan is over the Brooklyn Bridge. As one of the oldest suspension bridges in the country, you could just imagine how many visitors a day this bridge receives. 

If you are planning to take the iconic walk over the bridge, don’t expect to do it alone. 

The walk over the bridge is just over a mile, but in reality, you will walk just over 1.5 miles from each side’s pedestrian entrances.

Similar to the Williamsburg and Manhattan Bridge, the Brooklyn Bridge will provide you with beautiful views of the Manhattan skyline. 

To access the Brooklyn Bridge from the Manhattan side, enter the pedestrian walkway at the northeast corner of City Hall Park along Center Street. From the Brooklyn side, enter the pedestrian walkway at Tillary Street and Boerum Place. 

Brooklyn, NYC

Since you have walked your way over to Brooklyn, you can’t miss out on visiting Dumbo, Brooklyn Bridge Park, and the Brooklyn Heights Promenade. 

If you are looking for an instagrammable photo, head to Dumbo for the striking view of the Manhattan Bridge which is all over social media. You can find this photo spot at the intersection of Washington Street and Water Street. 

Spend a little more time on the Brooklyn side before heading back to Manhattan. Walk west along the East River to the Brooklyn Bridge Park and the Brooklyn Heights Promenade for unforgettable views of the Manhattan skyline.

If you are ready for a snack, pass the famous Time Out Market for various international foods or grab a delicious New York coal-fired brick oven pizza at Grimaldi’s.

To get back to Manhattan either walk across the Brooklyn Bridge or take a ferry boat from Brooklyn Bridge Park Pier 1 to Wall Street.

Evening : Go out for dinner and enjoy NYC’s nightlife

We hope you left some space in your stomach after your little snack in Brooklyn.

New York has one of the most diverse food scenes in the world and tonight you can pick if you want to try some Asian food in Chinatown or some Italian meals in Little Italy. The neighborhoods are next to each other, so make sure to both check them out.

As the evening hits, also make sure to watch the transition of NYC from daylight to darkness. It is fascinating to see how bright the city gets when it is illuminated by thousands of lights. 

Chinatown 

Stroll through NYC’s Chinatown, a densely populated Asian neighborhood. Walk through the narrow streets filled with goods along the way. Come hungry and taste authentic Asian cuisine or just take in the atmosphere. 

If you are looking for a fun dessert, head to Taiyaki NYC to get a Japanese-inspired ice cream dessert. If you are brave, try the refreshing ice cream in a traditional red bean filled cone.

Little Italy

Just north of Chinatown is NYC’s Little Italy known for its large Italian population. The streets are lined with restaurants serving traditional Italian food. You can’t go wrong eating in any of them, simply pick your favorite restaurant.

If you still have some energy left in you, hit up the NYC nightlife scene. Manhattan is filled with unique bars from rooftops to speakeasies. These are our top 3 choices around Chinatown and Little Italy:

• Bar: Apotheke

Travel back in time to the 1920s when you visit this unique bar/speakeasy which serves medical-inspired cocktails in the heart of Chinatown.

• Speakeasy: Saint Tuesday 

Enter this semi-secretly located subterranean speakeasy and get captivated by the delicious classic cocktails and live music every night.

• Rooftop Bar: The Crown

If you prefer extensive views of the Manhattan skyline instead of dimmed romantic lights in the other bars, check out the Boutique hotel rooftop bar The Crown. Enjoy some classic and seasonal drinks while taking in all these views.

Itinerary for New York City: Day 4 – Lower Manhattan, Liberty Island, & Ellis Island

You will be able to enjoy another beautiful day in New York City. Today is the last day of this 4 day New York itinerary. There is still so much to see, so let’s make the most of the 24 hours you have left in New York. 

DAY 4: NEW YORK ITINERARY

Morning : Take the ferry to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty

Get up and head straight down to Battery Park to be on the first ferry (9:00 AM) over to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. To make sure you get there at your desired time, purchase ferry tickets ahead of time. Allow yourself half a day (at least 4 hours) to experience the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty is located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor. It was a gift of friendship from the French and now symbolizes freedom and democracy.

Take a visit over to see this beautiful statue and climb up into the pedestal or the crown (temporarily closed as of July 2022). Tickets to climb the crown sell out well in advance. 

The admission to see the Statue of Liberty always includes the ferry boat ride to Liberty Island, the museum entrance, the Park Ranger Tours, and a visit to the neighboring Ellis Island. 

Take the ferry to Ellis Island, your next stop on your 4-day New York itinerary.

Ellis Island

Ellis Island was once the busiest immigrant inspection port in the entire United States. From the years of 1892 to 1954, approximately 12 million immigrants arriving at the Port of New York and New Jersey were processed there under federal law.

Today, you can walk off the ferry boat and step back in time to imagine what it was like to arrive as an immigrant. You can take a free audio tour through the building to learn more about the process of immigration. 

Top Tip: For a special experience book the Hard Hat Tour. The knowledgeable guides will tell you all about the connected 750-bed Ellis Island hospital where immigrants who showed signs of infectious and contagious diseases had to stay when they arrived in New York. It was the largest Public Health facility in the USA. Of course, you will also be able to take a walk through the haunted hospital halls yourself to get a better picture of life in the overcrowded hospital.

After spending the morning and early afternoon hours at Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty, hop back on the ferry over to Battery Park. 

Afternoon : Visit the National September 11 Memorial and Museum

Just make sure you save yourself at least 2-3 hours for the 9/11 Museum. The museum is usually only open till 5:00 PM. 

From Battery Park, it takes around 10 minutes to reach the 9/11 museum. There are a lot of options to get there. For the fastest route, we would recommend checking Google Maps, otherwise, this information will be useful too. 

National September 11 Memorial and Museum

The museum which is actually located on the grounds where the tragedy took place will help you understand and feel what happened on the day when the hijacked planes crashed into the World Trade Center.

We visited this museum several times and every time it was very intense and touching. Be aware that some pictures and videos can be disturbing for younger children.

Evening : Get your last shopping done and enjoy the views from the tallest skyscraper

In case you still need some souvenirs from the Big Apple or you simply want to see an architectural masterpiece, head over to the Oculus. After that, take in one last view of NYC at the One World Observatory, the highest point in NYC. 

The Oculus is a transportation hub and shopping mall within the World Trade Center complex. It is located next to the 9/11 memorial and museum. 

Besides having 12 subway lines, you find various national and international shops, like Apple, Kate Spade, I Love New York, and L’Occitane in the uniquely designed building.

It took the Spanish architect Calatrava 12 years to finish the enormous artistic landmark. Looking at it from the right angle and using your imagination, you can see a dove taking off into flight.

One World Observatory at World Trade Center is currently the tallest skyscraper in the United States. 

Visitors can get expansive views of NYC from over 100 stories over the city streets.  At the top, you have a rare 360-degree view of New York City. From here you can see Manhattan, the East River, Brooklyn Bridge, and New York Harbor with the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and Governor’s Island.

For a one of a kind city view of New York, step out onto the Sky Portal, a 14-foot wide circle of glass that provides clear views of the city streets 100 stories below you. The portal is even equipped with real-time, high-definition footage of the street below to help you see what’s happening thousands of feet down on the city streets. 

One of the best times for a miraculous view is during the sunset hours. 

Depending on where your hotel is located, you can treat yourself to a last delightful meal in New York. Check out our favorite restaurants in the city below, then the choice is all up to you.

Map of Your 4 Day New York Itinerary

The Google Map below is color-coded by day on the 4 day New York itinerary explained in this post. Day 1 is represented by blue, day 2 by orange, day 3 by green, day 4 by red, alternative activities by purple, and places to eat and drink by yellow.

More time in NYC? 

Here are just a few more things that are worth putting in your personalized New York for 4 days itinerary. Do you have some extra days? Even better! Trust us, you won’t have difficulties filling these days up in a second.

• Take the tram over to Roosevelt Island for spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline
• Participate in one of the events happening at Pier 17
• Catch a baseball game at Yankee Stadium or Citi Field
• Get a taste of Arthur Ave, Little Italy in the Bronx
• View the fascinating tombstones in Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn
• Explore more NYC Museums: The Guggenheim Museum, The MET Cloisters, Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), Whitney Museum of American Art, Museum of Ice Cream, Museum of Street Art (MoSA), Tenement Museum, New York Transit Museum
• Visit more NYC green spaces: Hudson River Greenway, Riverside Walk

Thinking about how to plan a trip to NYC during the holiday season? Check out more about visiting NYC during the winter in our detailed post, The Ultimate List of Things to do in NYC in the Winter . 

What to Pack for New York

What to put in your suitcase for your New York trip highly depends on the season you are going, the expected weather forecast, and what you plan to do. 

With New York being located in the northeast of the United States we suggest packing layered clothing for most of the year. 

No matter when you plan a trip to NYC, you will always want to start packing with basic clothing, toiletries, and miscellaneous travel items. 

Start with these basic clothing items and then tailor the rest to meet the needs of your trip based on the weather and activities planned.

Here is a list to get you started:

• Comfortable casual clothes – pants, shorts, tops, t-shirts, sweaters, dress
• Fancy outfit(s)
• Layered items – fleece, sweatshirt, cardigan
• Undergarment
• Comfortable walking shoes + footwear necessary for activities 
• Jacket (appropriate for the season) – raincoat, insulated jacket, dress coat, casual jacket 
• Additional items for colder weather – gloves, scarf, hat, warm boots, baselayer

Personal toiletry items are a necessity for all travel but if you happen to forget anything you can find a Duane Reade convenience store on almost every block. 

Begin by packing these basic toiletry items:

• Shower Essentials: shampoo & conditioner, body wash/soap, dry shampoo powder
• Shaving supplies
• Dental Care: Toothbrush, paste, dental floss, mouth wash
• Make-Up and Make-Up Remover
• Skin Care: Body lotion with SPF, sunscreen, chapstick
• Feminine hygiene products
• Hair care: Hairbrush, hair products, hair accessories
• Tissues & Q-tips
• Nail file & Clipper
• Eyewear Necessities
• Personal Medicines + basic medications
• Hand sanitizer
• Laundry bag

Miscellaneous Items

Any trip you take usually requires some additional items which are options based on your travels. These items are usually nice to have but not essential. 

Here are some miscellaneous items we tend to travel with:

• Camera + accessories & batteries 
• Travel tripod
• GoPro + accessories 
• Cell phone charger
• Laptop and charger
• Day backpack or pack
• Pacsafe 
• Notebook and pen
• Tablet/Kindle/book
• Printed Tour/Activity/Attraction Tickets (if necessary)
• Travel itinerary and map

NYC Trip Planning: Travel Tips

1. Pay close attention to what airport you are flying into and out of.

Make sure you check and double-check which airport you are flying into and out of for your New York Itinerary. 

The most common airports that service New York City is John F. Kennedy International Airport, LaGuardia Airport, and Newark International Airport. JFK and LaGuardia airports are located in Queens, whereas Newark International Airport is located in Newark, New Jersey. 

2. Wear comfortable shoes.

Walking is an essential part of any New York itinerary and this one will have you getting in the miles. Only wear shoes you are comfortable wearing all day. Your legs and feet will thank you. Wearing the wrong pair of shoes can make or break your itinerary for New York. 

3. Expect crowds and lines.

As you already know, New York is one of the most visited cities in the world and sees millions of visitors each year. That is a lot of people. And guess what? They are all trying to experience the best of the city on their New York itinerary. That means a lot of people trying to visit the same iconic landmarks, attractions, and restaurants of NYC. Be prepared for the crowds.

4. Book activities in advance.

Don’t wait to book activities when you are in New York. By that time it is more than likely that things you want to do will be booked out. Remember New York is a busy place and everyone wants to see the city’s highlights, just like you. 

5. If you need to stop on the sidewalk, step off to the side.

Confused about where you are and need to look at directions, you are strolling around, or want to take a picture? Then make sure to step out of the way on the sidewalk. Do not just stop in the middle or in front of someone. New Yorkers are known for walking fast and being blunt.  

6. Bring cash.

Do yourself a favor and carry some cash with you. You never know when you will need cash whether it be for a tip, a cash-only establishment, or a street food vendor, like those who sell insanely delicious nuts. Cash is always nice to have on hand.

7. Don’t be afraid of the subway.

The subway is the absolute best and fastest way to move throughout New York City. Riding the subway can be an overwhelming experience for non-New Yorkers at first but you are more than capable of doing it.

If you are feeling anxious about riding the NYC subway, do your research ahead of time and get familiar with the way the system works so you feel prepared and comfortable. Google Maps is a great tool to figure out the fastest routes.

8. Spend as much time as you can exploring the city.

Don’t waste time. Exploring New York for 4 days is quick. You will want to optimize your time each day to get the most out of your hours in New York. Get up early, explore, and have fun at night. Plan to rest when your 4 day New York itinerary is over. 

9. Be able to adjust your itinerary for NYC for bad weather.

Depending on the season you are visiting for your New York itinerary, you could experience a day or 2 of unpleasant weather. So plan for that. 

If there is rain or inclement weather in the forecast, plan for more indoor activities that day such as museums. This NYC 4 day itinerary can easily be rearranged to meet the weather needs since it is designed around a central location each day. 

NYC Trip Planning: Money Saving Tips

1. Purchase the 7 Day Unlimited Ride MetroCard.

There is a good chance you will be taking the Metro or local buses a bunch of times while racing through your New York 4 days itinerary. Buy the 7-day unlimited ride to save yourself some bucks. It allows you to ride the Metro and local buses as many times as you would like in the 7-day time frame. 

The total cost for this MetroCard is $33.00 (not including the $1.00 fee). If you plan on riding the Metro more than 12 times, then this option is the way to go. 

2. Purchase a discount sightseeing pass that fits best for your itinerary of New York

As mentioned earlier in the post, there are 2 major discount sightseeing passes for New York City, the Go City Pass , and the New York CityPASS .

If you want to follow our itinerary, we would recommend getting the Go City New York Explorer Pass for your 4 days. You can get the 5 choices attraction pass for $147 which gives you free admission to most of the attractions listed in our itinerary.

3. Pay less for Broadway shows

Here are some websites we use to save money on pricey Broadway show tickets.

• Broadway for Broke People – This website shows your options for discounted tickets for some Broadway shows. Try to win cheap tickets in one of the lotteries, get standing room-only tickets (SRO), or if time allows, go to the ticket office as soon as it opens to get some general rush tickets.
• Broadway Roulette – This website lets you pick the day and they pick the show for you for just $49-$59. You can select a preference and eliminate some shows to make them match your taste.
• TodayTix – This website offers great options for discounted Broadway tickets. 

Best Time to Visit New York City

Honestly, there really isn’t a bad time to visit New York City. Each part of the year brings a different perspective, and excitement to the city and you can be sure to find fun-filled activities all year round. 

• Winter – When visiting NYC from late November to January , you get the bonus of experiencing the magical holiday season and festivities in New York. Stroll along the beautifully decorated streets and windows, go ice skating in the various parks in NYC, grab a bite to eat at the Christmas markets, or watch a show to get you in the Christmas spirit. 
• Spring – Traveling to NYC from April to May, you can experience the blossoming of the cherry trees in Central Park, Roosevelt Island, Greenwood Cemetery, plus a bunch more places. The various Botanical Gardens throughout the city are worth a visit too in the spring.
• Summer – Experiencing the summer (June to August) in New York allows you to have longer daylight hours and an abundance of sunshine to stroll through the New York streets. Take advantage of great outdoor events like ‘Shakespeare in the Park’ (which is even free of charge), and movies under the stars.
• Fall – Then there is the beautiful New York fall. Seeing the city streets and parks blended with the vibrant orange, red, and yellow colors from October to November is truly a sight to see. If you are looking for some Halloween Spectacular, NYC does not disappoint. Watch the NYC Village Halloween Parade, take all your courage to make it through the haunted houses, and dine next to creepy clowns in some festively decorated restaurants.

There is especially one factor to keep in mind when deciding what season to travel to New York: The weather. New York weather is drastically different from season to season.

During the winter, mostly in January and February, it can be mercilessly cold with temperatures below freezing mixed with high winds. Whereas in the summer, you can expect hot temperatures and humidity which can be a tough combination to handle when you are not used to it. In the spring and fall seasons, the temperatures are much milder but you can expect some more rain. 

Where to Stay in New York

Manhattan is a great area to stay in when you are visiting New York City. It is right in the heart of the city and all of the attractions and famous landmarks will be in close proximity.

Unfortunately, this big advantage comes with a huge price tag. It is very difficult to get a reasonable price for accommodation in New York’s most famous neighborhood. If you don’t mind treating yourself to a nice hotel/hostel in the heart of New York, we can highly recommend staying in these accommodations:

• HI New York City (Hostel) Especially when you are traveling alone, staying in a hostel is a great way of finding new travel buddies. This clean and modern hostel is located in close proximity to Central Park and offers a garden with barbecue grills and a picnic area and a beautiful hang-out area inside. For a quick bite, grab something from the snack bar/ deli.
• Dream Midtown The 4-star Boutique hotel Dream Midtown is also located right next to Central Park which makes it the perfect base to explore the best places in Manhattan. The real crown jewel is the stunning rooftop bar. Enjoy some delicious drinks surrounded by the iconic New York skyline before getting back to your beautifully designed room which is just minutes away. In these beds, you will get the best rest possible.
• The Time New York The Time New York lets you stay in the entertainment district itself, Times Square. This stylish hotel is your perfect choice when you want to indulge in luxury (for a reasonable price) and be located in the perfect spot for all your NYC adventures.

If you are like us and rather spend money on adventures and experiences, take a closer look at the more affordable accommodations in neighborhoods like Hoboken across the Hudson River or Newark. We listed some great options which are just a little more far away below:

• The Holland Hotel (Jersey City) 43 minutes to Times Square by public transportation
• Fairfield Inn & Suites Newark Liberty International Airport (Newark) 1h 5min to Times Square by public transportation

Must Try Foods while in New York

A trip to New York is not complete until you have tried these New York food favorites. In our opinion, the number 1 food you must eat is pizza. You can’t go home without eating the famous New York style pizza.

• Pizza – Grabbing a slice of pizza at a Pizzeria is an absolute must. 
• Bagel – Want to feel like a real New Yorker? Get a “BEC” (Bacon, Egg, and Cheese) on a bagel.
• Hot Dog – Grab a good ol “dirty water dog” along the streets of New York City or find a local Hot Dog place to try a New York hot dog.

Where to Eat in New York

There are so many different ethnicities living in New York City who brought their local dishes to their new country that the food choices are unlimited. 

No matter which cuisine you are looking for, we are almost certain you will find it here. Look at our favorite national and international bakeries and restaurants in New York below.

Levain Bakery – Stop in for a cookie or two which is baked with the perfect combination of crunchy outside and gooieness inside.

Dominique Ansel Bakery – Your taste buds are in for a treat at Dominique Ansel Bakery. Bite into one of their famous French treats like the Cronut (croissant donut mix) or the DKA (Dominique’s Kouign Amann). 

Ess-a-bagel – Order a delicious NYC-style bagel and top it with one of the extravagant cream cheese spreads. 

City Kitchen – Grab a mix and match dinner at this industrial style marketplace featuring diverse food vendors with dishes from all over the world. 

Carmine’s – Enjoy a classic Italian family-style meal at Carmine’s which serves up large portions of the popular Italian cuisines. 

Little Italy – Choose from a variety of classic Italian restaurants and feast on savory Italian dishes and desserts. 

Rolf’s – Savor the tastes of old-world Germany with classical German dishes. For a more special experience, go in during the holiday season to enjoy their famous Christmas decorations. 

Ellen’s Stardust Diner – Be entertained and eat all at the same time at this multi-level 50’s themed diner which features singing and dancing waiters and waitresses waiting for their chance to make it on Broadway. 

Fraunces Tavern – Take a step back into history at Fraunces historic tavern which serves up fantastic drinks, pub food, and live music. 

Stone Street Restaurants – Stop in at any of the Stone Street restaurants for a fun and delicious meal on one of the oldest streets in the city. 

Katz’s Delicatessen – Eating at Katz’s Delicatessen is like being a member of the neighborhood. It is most famous for its delicious sandwiches, platters, meats, and Jewish specialties.

Thai Villa – Fill up on traditional Thai cuisine in a chic atmosphere that serves up more than just the basic Thai street foods. 

Chinatown – Try a variety of yummy Chinese dishes along the streets of Chinatown. There is much more than just the everyday Chinese takeout. 

Taiyaki NYC Ice Cream – Cool off with a unique Japanese ice cream creation featuring a fish cone filled with artisan flavor soft ice creams and toppings. 

Jekyll and Hyde Club – A visit to the Jekyll and Hyde Club is one of the most unique dining experiences in Manhattan. Get your grub on in this haunted house feel restaurant while being continuously entertained by the spooky special effects. 

Beetle House – Eat up classic American dishes while stepping into a Tim Burton inspired restaurant that celebrates Halloween all year round featuring an artistic and theatrical atmosphere. 

Frequently Asked Questions: NYC Trip Planning

Is 4 days enough to visit New York?

We all know the answer to this question is no. Exploring New York City takes weeks. But if that is all the time you can get, then you make the best out of it. You can think of your 4 day New York itinerary as a brief introduction to New York City. You will see a lot, but you won’t see it all and that is okay. Just plan another trip to the Big Apple soon. 

Following this 4 day New York itinerary will definitely make your 4 days in New York worth it. 

How can I spend 4 days in NYC?

You can easily spend 4 days in New York in a number of ways. Above we have suggested a 4 day New York itinerary that hits numerous highlights mixed with some more hidden, non-touristy attractions. Take all or some of our suggestions above and tailor your 4-day New York itinerary to fit your wishes accordingly. 

How much money do you need for 4 nights in New York?

How much money you will need in New York is dependent on a lot of factors, e.g. how luxurious you want to travel, in which season you visit NYC, where you decide to eat, etc.

Here is a list of average prices per day per person you will need in New York:

Accommodation (Affordable Hotel outside of New York City) – $125

Public Transportation (Take advantage of the 7 days Metro Card) – $10   

Meals (Breakfast, Snack, and Dinner) – $30

Entertainment and Activities (Save with the Go City New York Explorer Pass) – $70

All in all, we would plan on spending around $235 a day in New York but as we mentioned before, you can also visit NYC on a budget and decide to skip some pricy attractions and shows and eat more affordable meals.

What is the cheapest month to visit New York?

The cheapest months to visit New York are from January to March. The prices of flights and hotels are on average the lowest during this time. 

But do keep in mind that many things come into play with the pricing of flights and hotels in New York. So you may also find deals at other times too. 

Also, visiting New York during the cheapest time is not always the best time. In the winter it gets very cold in New York, which is not ideal for enjoying the outdoors. 

What is the most expensive month to visit New York?

On the flip side, the most expensive times to visit New York are the summer months (June, and July) and the weeks leading up to and including Christmas and New Year’s. 

During these times of the year, New York is a happening place. Well, let’s be real not only during these times of the year. New York City is always a lively place. However, these specific times are most popular for travelers. 

Is New York expensive?

To simplify the answer, Yes. New York can be quite expensive. It is the most expensive city in the United States and one of the most expensive cities in the world. However, there are always ways to save money to maximize your experience. 

Traveling to and around New York on a budget can be a little challenging but it can be done. Honestly, it all depends on your style of traveling. 

What is your favorite activity on our 4 day New York itinerary? Do you have other recommendations for NYC?

Let us know in the comments below!

Our Other Resources for New York City

• The Ultimate List of Things to Do in NYC in the Winter
• 59 Best Places in Manhattan to Visit
• 29 Best Views of NYC: Manhattan Skyline and More

42 Best Things to Do in NYC at Night

• 40 Perfect Road Trips from New York City to Take
• Broadway Dress Code: How to Dress for a Show
• Green-Wood Cemetery: Visit Brooklyn’s Unique Attraction
• 100+ NYC Bucket List Items: Best Things to Do
• 25+ Best Non Touristy Things to Do in NYC

You Might Also Like

• Hudson Valley:  33 Most Beautiful Trails for Hiking in Hudson Valley
• Lake Placid:  20 Exciting Things to Enjoy Winter in Lake Placid
• Hiking:  34 Top Rated Best Hikes Upstate New York
• Waterfalls:  57 Spectacular Waterfalls in NY You Have to See
• Finger Lakes:  The Most Picturesque Finger Lakes Waterfalls You Have to See
• NY State Parks:  13 Most Scenic Minnewaska State Park Trails
• Cold Spring, NY:  The Ultimate Guide to 11 Best Cold Spring Hiking Trails
• Hiking:  Hiking Breakneck Ridge: How Tough Actually is this Hike

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4-Day New York Itinerary: Steal this NYC Guide by a Local!

Are you planning a 4-day New York itinerary and want to make sure you don’t miss a thing? I’m an NYC local who’s been living in New York City for 20+ years. I love to explore the city and to help readers like you plan fun and amazing trips to NYC.

So, I’ve put together a massive, ultimate 4 days in New York City guide so you can see classic sights and also explore the best of NYC’s iconic neighborhoods.

Planning 4 Days in New York (Like a Local)

Before getting started, you’ll see this New York in 4 days itinerary has a lot of walking. It’s the best way to see the city. Not just iconic sights but also the neighborhoods that make up the heart of the city.

If your legs need a break, the subway, a taxi, or an Uber are great alternatives to walking. Just remember, taxis, Ubers, and the like are subject to NYC traffic the same as any other car on the road. The subway will nearly always be the faster alternative when your legs just won’t go anymore.

For help in planning a trip to New York for 4 days or any amount of time, check out this New York City planning guide.

New York City: A Planning Guide for an Unforgettable Trip!

Get proven tips from an NYC local about the best things to see & do, where to stay, as well as essential info about getting in & around NYC to make trip planning a breeze.

No worries. We hate spam, too. 🙂

Day 1 – Empire State Building & Classic NYC Sightseeing

As a local New Yorker, I recommend starting off your 4 days in NYC on foot, outdoors seeing the biggest New York City sight of them all …the city itself with all of its grit and glitz, wackiness and wow!

If you’re like most NYC sightseers, you’re probably starting from somewhere close to Midtown. So, set off on foot to get a feel for the city vibe, grab a bagel with cream cheese, and begin your itinerary for 4 days in New York at the Empire State Building!

After all, whether you live in New York City or are here for a visit, there’s no better way to see the city than from atop its most classic skyscraper.

Empire State Building

This Art Deco classic, situated steps away from Macy’s and Herald Square at 34th St. & 5th Ave, is a can’t miss while you’re spending 4 days in New York City.

Even with so many other skyscrapers in New York City, the Empire State Building is still my favorite! There’s so much more than just a spectacular view! And, even if you’ve visited in the past, you should plan a return visit to see what’s new!

Aside from being as iconic to New York as the Eiffel Tower is to Paris, the Empire State Building transports you back in time to when the magnificent New York City skyline was just taking shape.

The building has been maintained and restored in some places to preserve the classic 1930s accents, from the building’s lobby to its elevator doors, and built-in mailboxes.

The updated exhibits that are part of your visit tell the story of how the Empire State Building was built in just 1 year(!) at the start of the Great Depression. And how once completed, it became the tallest building in the world until 1970 when the World Trade Center towers were built. 

Just watch out, though! King Kong himself might pop up when you least expect it!

Seeing the Empire State Building and learning about its history is, of course, only part of the reason for visiting!

The observation platforms on the 86th floor and the 102nd floor offer sweeping views of Manhattan, the outer boroughs of the city, as well as New Jersey on the other side of the Hudson River. In fact, on a clear day, you can see as far north as the Catskill Mountains in Upstate New York.

It’s only when you get a birds-eye view of NYC that you can really ground yourself with Manhattan’s geography as an island(!), realize how big Central Park actually is, and understand how all of New York’s 5 boroughs are connected. 

There’s no better way to start your 4 days in New York!

How to Visit:

Don’t waste a single second waiting in line. Book a skip-the-line-ticket so you can enter the Empire State Building and begin your trip up to the observation deck right away. With all the time you save, you can savor the views from the highest open-air viewpoint in New York City.

With a deeper appreciation of how New York’s skyscrapers sprouted from the island’s bedrock and a better sense of the lay of the land, walk towards Herald Square to catch a glimpse of the historic Macy’s Department Store. Then, head north, or up, 5th Avenue.

ProTip: You’ll know you’re walking up or down an avenue based on the numbered streets. If the numbers are getting higher (34, 35, 36…), you’re walking up that avenue. If the numbers are getting lower (34, 33, 32…), you’re walking down that avenue. For more, check out this first time in New York City guide.

New York Public Library

At 42nd Street and 5th Avenue, you’ll be in front of the main branch of the New York Public Library and alongside Bryant Park.

The historic library building is more than 100 years old and is watched over by the 2 famous lions affectionately called Patience and Fortitude.

If you were a Sex in the City fan , this is the gorgeous library building where Carrie was supposed to marry Big!

The building is free and open to the public so no need to plan a wedding. Don’t miss out on the chance to admire the gorgeous Rose Reading Room with its painted ceiling. 

This also happens to be a great place to use a restroom since New York City is notorious for not having enough public bathrooms.

Grand Central Terminal & Bryant Park

From the New York Public Library, Grand Central Terminal is just 1 1/2 blocks away along 42nd Street, walking with Bryant Park at your back. 

The Beaux-Arts building is a National Historic Landmark, in addition to being an active train station complete with shops and places to eat. It’s a sight all itself and not to be missed on your 4 day New York itinerary.

The constellation ceiling in the main concourse sparkles. Head up the stairs towards the Apple Store for a classic photo-op. Then, take the ramps down to the lower level to the whispering gallery, a fun acoustic feature just outside the Oyster Bar entrance.

Under the arched ceiling, stand in one corner facing the wall. (I promise I’m not that teacher making you stand in the corner!) Someone else should stand in the opposite diagonal corner. Now, whisper into the corner arch. The person in the opposite corner will hear everything you say no matter how noisy the terminal is!

Grand Central also has shops and a gourmet market on the main level and a food court on the lower level. There are bathrooms on the lower level as well. 

Just adjacent to Grand Central is the amazingly popular Summit at One Vanderbilt. The views over Manhattan and the rivers on either side are epic! And the experience is very interactive and fun for all ages. It’s one of the hottest new attractions to open in Manhattan in the last couple of years. I highly recommend booking a timed entry ticket in advance.

Then, walk back along 42nd Street, towards the New York Public Library and Bryant Park. Depending on the time of year you visit, Bryant Park could be an open green space or a not-to-be-missed holiday market and ice rink like during the Christmas season. (More info below on visiting New York during the holiday season.)

Rockefeller Center & St. Patrick’s Cathedral

When you’re ready, walk up 5th Avenue to 49th and 50th Streets, the home of Rockefeller Center and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Along the way, you may be tempted to do some 5th Avenue (window) shopping! 

Both places are free to visit unless you’re there in winter and want to skate at the famous Rockefeller Center rink. If that’s your timing, don’t forget about Saks Fifth Avenue and their famous holiday-themed department store windows and light show.

If you’re a fan of the Today Show, their studios are in Rockefeller Center, too!

St. Patrick’s Cathedral sits just across 5th Avenue. It was completed in 1879 and is the largest Neo-Gothic Cathedral in North America, as well as a National Historic Landmark.

The grand exterior is second only to the beautiful marble columns and stained glass inside. The Cathedral is free for all people to visit.

ProTip: This area has delicious pubs that are perfect for lunch. Take a look at Connolly’s or Bill’s Bar & Burger. If you’re looking for a more upscale lunch, Limani, Del Frisco’s Grille, and Fig and Olive might be just what you’re looking for. 

Museum of Modern Art

Exploring New York in 4 days won’t be enough to see all of the city’s world-famous museums, but there are a few you just can’t miss!

So, after lunch and some downtime for your legs, head to MoMa for an afternoon of Modern Art. The world-famous museum is on W. 53rd Street between 5th and 6th Avenues. This is about a 5-minute walk from the Rockefeller Center area.

Be sure to get your MoMA tickets in advance to avoid any line there might be.

The museum is home to Van Gogh’s The Starry Night, as well as works by Picasso, Monet, Gaugin, Dali, Matisse, Warhol, and Pollock. I recommend spending no more than a couple of hours focusing on the works of art, artists, and exhibitions that are most interesting to you to avoid museum fatigue!

This is plenty of time to see works like Warhol’s Campbell’s Soup Cans, Monet’s Water Lillies, and several others.

Broadway and Times Square

Depending on your timing and interest, you can finish the walk up 5th Avenue to 57th St. where the iconic jewelry store Tiffany and Co sits on the corner. Along the way, you’ll pass by other luxury brand stores like Gucci and Louis Vuitton. 

Otherwise, from MoMA, head west along 53rd St to Broadway. Walk down Broadway into the theater district and towards Times Square.

In just a few blocks, you’ll be greeted by the famous neon lights of Times Square . The red steps just next to the TKTS booth are a great place to get above the cars and people and manage the sensory overload from the sights, sounds, and smells. It’s also a perfect place to take photos, whether you want to capture the scene, take a selfie, or a family photo without 100s of others in the shot!

And no new york 4 day itinerary is complete without seeing a Broadway show ! The TKTS booth sells discounted same-day Broadway tickets. If you’re flexible about what to see, check out what they have for sale and grab seats for that night.

Either way, if it’s not yet totally dark when you arrive in Times Square, plan to come back after dark. Broadway shows typically end between 10-10:30 pm, which is a perfect time to see the lights sparkle at night.

And if you’re out late or your hotel is close by to Times Square, come back for 3 minutes, from 11:57 pm – 12:00 am. Every night there’s a synchronized “Midnight Moment” when all the digital screens present an art exhibition. It’s super cool to see and focuses on monthly art themes.

Day 2 – Classic New York City Museums and Central Park

Today, let’s get out of midtown and explore a bit more of what makes New York City such a special place.

Take the subway up to the Upper West Side.

There are a few subway lines that go to the Upper West Side. The B, C, 1, 2, & 3 trains all make stops throughout the neighborhood. The B & C lines stop along Central Park West after 59th Street & Columbus Circle, including at the entrance of the American Museum of Natural History.

The 1, 2, & 3 trains run along Broadway, with the 1 train making local stops and the 2 & 3 trains making express stops. You can get all of these lines from Midtown West. 72nd Street and 96th Street are the express stops after Times Square, making it quick and easy to go from Midtown West to the Upper West Side.

If you want to start the day with a walk, you could get to the Upper West Side in about 40 minutes on foot from Midtown West. The best part is a good chunk of that walk takes you through parts of Central Park.

There are lots of fun things to do on the Upper West Side that give you a truly local perspective. I’ve included a few in this itinerary but if you have more time or prefer some city exploration to a museum visit, there’s plenty to choose from in this classic NYC neighborhood.

However, you arrive on the Upper West Side, make your way to Central Park West and the American Museum of Natural History at 79th Street.

American Museum of Natural History

The museum is a treasure trove of exhibits spanning 45 museum halls from native animals, dinosaur fossils, people of long ago, and the wonders of the universe. 

The museum is simply amazing! Every time I’ve visited I’m drawn in by something new. If you’re traveling to New York City with kids, this is one museum that has something to keep everyone smiling and fascinated!

Just be sure to get skip-the-line tickets (for the same price as buying the tickets at the museum) to avoid the headache of waiting to enter.

Alternative Option: If you opt for city exploration instead of the Museum of Natural History, explore the Upper West Side. Here are just a few of the possibilities.

• Eat breakfast at the classic City Diner on W.90th Street or, if it’s a weekend, have brunch at Fred’s or Sarabeth’s.
• Visit beautiful Riverside Park.
• See Grant’s Tomb.
• Melt over the cookies at Levain Bakery.
• Say hello to the peacocks as you admire St. John the Divine Cathedral. 
• Stroll through the upper reaches of Central Park to see the reservoir or even the Harlem Meer.

After a morning at the museum or exploring the sights and vibe of the Upper West Side, make your way into Central Park. You may even want to bring some lunch into the park for a picnic.

Central Park

Along Columbus Avenue, along the backside of the Museum of Nature History, you’ll find bagels, pizzas, and even a Shake Shack. Or walk to Broadway and W.80th Street to shop for picnic goodies at the classic NYC market, Zabars.

Take this time to eat and explore Central Park . Assuming you enter the park from the Museum of Natural History, you’ll want to see popular places like:

• Belvedere Castle
• Shakespeare Garden
• Bethesda Terrace
• Strawberry Fields

Little by little, you want to explore this region of Central Park before making your way to the Metropolitan Museum of Art at E.80th Street and 5th Avenue. 

To help you picture it, Central Park is the shape of a rectangle. If you enter from the Museum of Natural History, you want to land directly across on the opposite side of that rectangle so you can visit the Met.

After spending a chunk of the midday in Central Park, take the afternoon to walk the corridors of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Metropolitan Museum of Art

There’s enough to see in the museum to last you a month so the best plan is to focus on the pieces of art and exhibits you want to see before museum fatigue sets in. I recommend the Egyptian Collections, the renaissance collections, Rembrandt’s paintings, Washington Crossing the Delaware, and works by Van Gogh, Monet, and Degas.

If the Metropolitan Museum of Art isn’t your top choice, you’re in luck because you’re already on Museum Mile. Choose to visit the Guggenheim, the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum, or the Frick Collection instead.

With an afternoon spent admiring works of art at some of the world’s best museums, head back into Central Park to begin your walk back towards Midtown.

• Walk the famous Mall pathway to Bethesda Terrace and Fountain.
• See the Balto Statue. 
• Take a rest in Sheep’s Meadow
• Don’t miss the pretty Gapstow Bridge and Pond area.

ProTip: If you’re traveling as a family, Central Park is a great diversion from museum visits with plenty of green space, rocks for climbing, and playgrounds.

If you can, exit Central Park towards Columbus Circle. You’ll have the chance to shop, eat, and use the restrooms at the Time Warner Center before making your way back towards Midtown and the theater district just a few blocks down Broadway.

Fun Fact! While Central Park was constructed in the mid-1800s, Broadway’s curving street path follows the Native American footpath the local tribes used before European settlers arrived. 

Day 3: The High Line, Chelsea & Greenwich Village

Let’s head to the Hudson River and a few areas south of Midtown. 

The goal is to start at Hudson Yards. If your hotel is in Midtown, walk to W. 34th Street and 10th Avenue. Alternatively, you could take the #7 subway train to Hudson Yards from Times Square.

Alternative Option: The Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum is docked at W.46th Street in the Hudson River. This aircraft carrier displays military planes, the Concord, and even the space shuttle. If you had this museum on your list, it could make sense to start here and then make your way to Hudson Yards about a 10-15 minute walk from the Intrepid.

Hudson Yards

Hudson Yards is a formerly industrial area of Manhattan with old rail lines that has and continues to be revitalized with new construction and development. 

Hudson Yards is a food and shopping venue with favorites like Mercado Little Spain serving up authentic dishes from Spain in different settings or stations. It’s similar to Eataly located near the Flatiron Building and how they focus on Italian eats.

The most popular attraction, though, in Hudson Yards is The Vessel. It’s a 16-story, outdoor structure meant for climbing. It has stairs and platforms at different angles and positions along the climb that makes for some fun and creative photo-ops!

As long as you reserve your tickets for a specific time and date, there’s no cost to climb The Vessel.

The High Line

Once you’re ready, set off to walk the High Line. This elevated park was created on top of an abandoned elevated rail track. You can enter at W.34th Street in between 11th and 12th Avenues or on W.30th Street, right near the Hudson Yards area.

Along the High Line, expect to find temporary exhibits, street art, food stands, and depending on when you visit, flowers and plants blooming right over the old rail tracks. There’s a High Line app you can download and use as a guide along the way.

The elevated park has entrances and exits down to Gansevoort Street. Depending on what you want to do, there are plenty of diversions as the High Line passes over the neighborhood of Chelsea, before finishing on the doorstep of Greenwich Village.

I recommend walking the complete length of the High Line, exiting at Gansevoort Street just near the Whitney Museum of Art. From here, loop back up 9th Avenue a couple of blocks to Chelsea Market.

Chelsea Market is a shopping and food destination, which is perfect since you’ve likely worked up an appetite climbing the Vessel and walking the High Line. The space is a former Nabisco factory now lined with some of the cities best eats and even home to the Food Network’s cooking studios.

Is your mouth watering but you’re not sure where to stop? Lobster Place and Los Tacos No. 1 are can’t miss stops for a few bites of deliciousness. 😉

Besides the market, some of the best things to do in Chelsea include visiting some of the many art galleries and seeing the Rubin Museum of Art, a small museum dedicated to Himalayan art.

Greenwich Village 

The best way to enjoy Greenwich Village is to wander through its narrow, leafy streets to admire the architecture and take in the more relaxed vibe compared to midtown. Greenwich Village’s shops, theaters, hidden spots, and classic cafes reveal themselves the more you explore the neighborhood.

In the Christopher St. and 7th Avenue area, you’ll find the famous Friends Apartment building on the corner of Grove and Bedford Streets. While you’re there, take time to look for historic Grove Court and the oldest wooden house still standing in Manhattan.

Discover a hidden Little Italy on Bleecker Street between 7th and 6th Avenues. Taste everything from pizza slices to rice balls to fine cheeses and cannolis!

Make your way across 6th Avenue and up Minetta Lane to MacDougal Street. From the Comedy Cellar to the historic Cafe Wha to Artichoke Pizza, world-famous falafel, Godfather filming locations, and historic homes, there’s more than enough to taste and explore in these few blocks of Greenwich Village.

While you’re there, save time to visit Washington Square Park and its famous arch. There are always fun and interesting things to watch happening in the park!

If you have more time, this guide with the best things to do in Greenwich Village will help you uncover more in this favorite New York neighborhood.

Day 4 – Brooklyn Bridge, 9/11 Museum, and Lower Manhattan

Lower Manhattan is the oldest part of New York City. It has seen hundreds of years worth of history, human efforts, and struggles. What’s left are some of the city’s most compelling places to see and layers upon layers of discoveries. 

Brooklyn Bridge

Begin the day by walking onto the Brooklyn Bridge . The easiest way to get there is by subway. Take the 2 or 3 express train to Park Place or the N, R, or W train to City Hall. The ramp leading up to the pedestrian promenade on the Brooklyn Bridge is just across from City Hall and City Hall Park.

The Brooklyn Bridge is a must-see while in New York City. The architecture of the bridge is stunning. The views over the water and looking back over Lower Manhattan are spectacular, especially on a clear blue sky day. And, the photo opportunities are endless! 

It’s best to arrive as early in the morning as you can. The sunrise and early morning light make it worth the early move, not to mention you’ll arrive before everyone else does!

The Brooklyn Bridge has an incredible history. Without turning this into a full-fledged history lesson, take a moment while you’re standing on the bridge to realize that it was built entirely by hand! It took 14 years to build and was completed in May of 1883 before electric machinery was used in building projects. Then consider, it only took 1 year to build the Empire State Building.

ProTip: If you’re visiting New York City with kids, read this Brooklyn Bridge picture book before your trip. Kids (and grown-ups) will love looking for the different parts of the bridge and its history while walking on the pedestrian promenade.

If you decide to go all the way to the Brooklyn side of the bridge, go down the stairs on the left. Turn left and walk a few minutes for a pizza from Juliana’s…perhaps the best pizza in all of NYC!

9/11 Memorial & Museum

After walking back off the bridge and into Lower Manhattan, walk through City Hall Park and a couple of blocks to the 9/11 Memorial and Museum .

Pay respects to the lives lost at the Reflecting Pools marking the original footprints of the Twin Towers. The names inscribed along the perimeter of the pools are just one of many thoughtful details throughout the memorial. For example, the Survivor Tree is one that has been replanted after being pulled from the rubble and rehabilitated. 

Next, head inside to the 9/11 Museum . It’s best to get your tickets in advance to avoid the line. You’ll be given a timed-entry, so you’ll know exactly when to arrive at the museum.

Inside the museum, it is a place to remember and reflect. There are many artifacts from the day, including first-hand accounts through photography and audio and video recordings. 

After an early start, a walk on the Brooklyn Bridge, and a visit to the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, it’s likely to be about midday.

For the rest of the day, you have a few options to choose from in Lower Manhattan. 

If you’d like to visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Immigration Museum, you’ll need to book tickets ahead of time and go straight there once you’re finished at the 9/11 Museum. A visit to both places will take 5 hours. You can also choose to visit just the Statue of Liberty or Ellis Island. This will take about 2 hours.

Another choice for your NYC 4 day itinerary is to explore more of Lower Manhattan, while also seeing the Statue of Liberty from a distance.

From the 9/11 Museum, you’ll have time to explore the Occulus across the street. Cross through Zuccotti Park and down Broadway. 

Stop at Trinity Church and Cemetery. While the original church was burned in a fire in 1776, this historic church community dates back to the late 1600s. Founding Fathers like George Washington and Alexander Hamilton worshipped here.

Hamilton fans can pay their respects in Trinity Cemetery at the graves of Alexander Hamilton, his wife Eliza, her sister Angelica Schuyler, their son Alexander Hamilton, and other Revolutionary War figures like Patriot spy Hercules Mulligan. 

Head down Wall Street to see the Stock Exchange and the Fearless Girl Statue . You can’t miss the giant statue of George Washington standing on the steps of Federal Hall. New York City was the original national capital city and George Washington was inaugurated at Federal Hall.

ProTip: You can also visit inside Federal Hall. It’s managed by the National Parks System and has interesting historical things to see. General Washington himself sometimes makes an appearance. 😉

Continue back down Broadway to Bowling Green. Take a photo with the famous Charging Bull statue.

As you stand in Bowling Green transport yourself back and imagine Dutch settlers and the Native Americans selling and trading goods at the market that once happened here. Or picture the Sons of Liberty tearing down the statue of King George III that once stood here once they learned independence had been declared.

Walk through Battery Park or along State Street to the Staten Island Ferry . Take the ferry for a round trip journey out into the harbor. You’ll pass by the Statue of Liberty, as well as get another perspective of Manhattan as an island, coming full circle from that first look from atop the Empire State Building.  

ProTip: If you decide to visit the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, or both, the Statue Cruises depart from Battery Park.

With any remaining time in the day, you could:

• Walk over to the historic South Street Seaport District for shopping, food, and drink.
• Take the N, R, or W train from Rector Street uptown to Canal Street and Chinatown to end the day with some authentic Dim Sum.

For more ideas, check out this detailed Lower Manhattan itinerary to help you explore more of this area like a local! 😉

More Time than 4 Days in New York City?

New York City has an endless number of things to see, do, and eat!

Take it from a local . You could stay a year and still not check off everything on your New York City bucket list.

If you decide to extend your 4 days in New York itinerary, explore the neighborhood guides linked in this itinerary. I’ve chosen some of the best things to do in these areas but there’s still more to explore.

This list of 100 Things to Do in New York City is full of ideas from visiting Yankee Stadium to eating your heart out at Brooklyn’s Smorgasburg to walking the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens and discovering the hidden gem of Governor’s Island.

If you’re looking for New York City street art, explore the neighborhood of Bushwick in Brooklyn . You also just might stumble upon one of NYC’s best pizza places…

For an off-the-beaten-path stop, you just might be brave enough to visit New York’s most haunted house. If you do visit, pair it with a visit to the Lower East Side Tenement Museum to compare what life was like back in the 19th and 20th centuries for the wealthy and newly arriving immigrants.

Planning a 4 Days in New York City Itinerary at Christmas?

If you’re planning 4 days in NYC at Christmastime, you’ll want to plan for the season. Day 1 of this itinerary, for example, would be a great way to see iconic sights like the Empire State Building while also bringing you to popular holiday spots like the Winter Village in Bryant Park or the tree in Rockefeller Center.

But you also might want to modify this itinerary to allow for more shopping, ice skating, or to go to a holiday performance.

This Christmas in New York guide goes into more detail to help you plan your visit during the festive holiday season. And be sure you’ve packed accordingly for the weather! You’ve got to know what to wear in NYC in winter so the cold doesn’t spoil your visit.

Where to Stay in New York

Whether you’ve got 4 days in New York or longer, figuring out where to stay in New York City is one of the hardest decisions when planning an NYC trip. It’s overwhelming to find a hotel at the right price and in the right neighborhood! 

This itinerary assumes Midtown as a starting point. Many New York City visitors stay in either Midtown West or Midtown East because of its central location and its access to many subway lines. Aside from staying within your budget, staying as close as possible to a subway line is important to cut down on the time it takes to get to and from places around the city.

Here are a few hotel ideas depending on your budget. For an in-depth look at New York City hotels and neighborhoods, check out my where to stay in New York City guide. The guide breaks down the pros and cons of each neighborhood, the subway lines nearby, and gives hotel suggestions.

Hampton Inn Times Square Central

Located on W.41st Street in between 7th and 8th Avenues, this budget-friendly hotel is centrally located to all of the sights of midtown and well-connected with many of the city’s subway lines connecting at 42nd Street, Times Square. Reservations include breakfast. Hilton Honors loyalty program members can use or earn points for their stay.

Archer Hotel New York

This posh boutique hotel on W.38th Street is just a few minute’s walking to Bryant Park and several subway lines. The hotel’s design is just beautiful and, even with its central location, offers guests a quiet hideaway. And, don’t miss checking out the rooftop bar with views of the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building. 

CitizenM New York Times Square

Sitting in the heart of the theater district, this W.50 St. hotel is also just steps from Times Square and within walking distance to all of midtown’s top sights. Reservations include breakfast and rooms with amazing city views are available.

Getting from the Airport to Manhattan

New York City is served by 3 major airports, JFK and LaGuardia in Queens and Newark-Liberty in New Jersey. Each has connections to Manhattan. LaGuardia is geographically the closest but historically has been the trickiest for public transportation. JFK and Newark have train connections to help for a seamless airport transfer.

All the airports are also served by taxis, car services, and van transportation. Don’t spend a single second of your New York 4 day trip stressing about airport transfers!

No matter which airport you fly into, these detailed guides have what you need to know.

• How to Get from JFK to Manhattan
• How to get from Newark Airport to Manhattan
• How to get from LaGuardia to Manhattan

New York City Tips

A 4 day trip to New York is not only about planning. It’s about managing the city flow and getting around easily.

I’ve put together a list of NYC dos and don’ts so you can blend right in with the locals. 😉

The great news is if you follow this New York 4 day itinerary, you’ll already be ahead of the game. Several of the tips include exploring beyond the Times Square area.

But beyond that, here are a few need-to-know New York City tips.

• New Yorkers are pedestrians. Our sidewalks are like your roads and highways. We use them to commute to work, get to school, and grocery shop. If you stop while your walking, whether to take a photo or check a map, move to the side. There’s likely to be people behind you who won’t expect your sudden stop.
• Wait for people to exit the subway car before you enter. You’ll notice people on the platform moving to the sides of the subway doors so they’re ready to enter when everyone’s off.
• Avoid chain restaurants. I’m not saying this to start a culture war, but only to remind you that New York City is home to thousands of incredible restaurants in every cuisine you could ever want, some even operated by world-famous chefs. Don’t waste any stomach space on food you can easily get back home.
• And lastly, New Yorkers may look like they’re always in a hurry, but if you need help finding something, don’t be afraid to ask. We’re actually quite friendly despite our all-business expressions. 😉

Quick 4 Days in New York Itinerary Planning Resources:

• Empire State Building Skip-the-Line Tickets
• MoMa Skip-the-Line Tickets
• 9/11 Museum Entry
• Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Ticket Options

What are you questions about planning four days in NYC?

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Money saving DAY Pass itineraries

As native New Yorkers we know the best way around town and we have created some example itineraries of how you could use your New York DAY Pass. Don't forget, these are only examples, you can visit any of the iconic attractions included on the pass in any order you like. Enjoy huge savings vs. gate prices.

As native New Yorkers we know the best way around town and we have created some example itineraries of how you could use your New York Day Pass. Don't forget, these are only examples, you can visit any of the iconic attractions included on the pass in any order you like. Enjoy huge savings vs. gate prices.

New York City 2 Day Itinerary

Have a great 2 days in NYC using New York Sightseeing Pass. Do you want to see it all in just 2 days? Or perhaps visit the major NYC highlights? 2 days is not too much time for NYC, but Sightseeing Pass can be of great help, giving you some extra time with Fast Track privileges and saving you money on entry fees. See what you can see in NYC in just 2 days!

Total cost without The Sightseeing Pass $355.43

2 Day Adult Sightseeing Pass - NYC $214.00

Saving per person with the Sightseeing Pass $141.43

2 Day savings with the Sightseeing Pass

1st Day in NYC Exclusive New York

Guided NYC Premium Bus Tour

Normal Entry Price $109.00

Museum of Broadway

Normal Entry Price $39.00

Empire State Building

Normal Entry Price $51.17

Cost Without The Sightseeing Pass $199.17

2nd Day in NYC Downtown & Statue of Liberty

Big Bus New York Essential Ticket

Normal Entry Price $82.00

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Roundtrip Ferry Tour

Normal Entry Price $27.00

One World Observatory

Normal Entry Price $47.26

Cost Without The Sightseeing Pass $156.26

New York City 3 Day Itinerary

3 days sounds like quite of lot of time to see any city, but NYC has so many places worth your time. Plan your 3-day itinerary with New York Sightseeing Pass, discover hidden gems and stick to your sightseeing budget.

Total cost without The Sightseeing Pass $528.47

3 Day Adult Sightseeing Pass - NYC $259.00

Saving per person with the Sightseeing Pass $269.47

3 Day savings with the Sightseeing Pass

3rd Day in NYC Entertain Yourself in Times Square

Madame Tussauds New York – Admission + Marvel 4D

Normal Entry Price $47.89

Escape Game New York

Normal Entry Price $48.98

St. Patrick’s Cathedral Tour – Gold Pass

Normal Entry Price $25.00

Cost Without The Sightseeing Pass $173.04

New York City 4 Day Itinerary

Get ready for the great adventure in New York City, there is plenty to see here and in 4 days you will have a chance to see a lot. Plan your days, get up early to visit the most crowded attractions, use hop-on, hop-off buses for the whole duration of your stay and keep your budget under control with a 4 Day Sightseeing Pass.

Total cost without The Sightseeing Pass $597.46

4 Day Adult Sightseeing Pass - NYC $299.00

Saving per person with the Sightseeing Pass $298.46

4 Day savings with the Sightseeing Pass

4th Day in NYC Top of the Rock

Top of the Rock® Observation Deck at Rockefeller Center

Normal Entry Price $43.99

Whitney Museum of American Art

Cost Without The Sightseeing Pass $68.99

New York City 5 Day Itinerary

A 5-day trip to NYC will give you the full NYC experience. You should have enough time to visit all the major cities, walk the Brooklyn Bridge, visit designer outlets and come back home with lots of great pictures and memories, but be smart about you sightseeing – Keep your budget under control and use Fast Track entry at many of the busiest attractions with New York Sightseeing Pass.

Total cost without The Sightseeing Pass $755.46

5 Day Adult Sightseeing Pass - NYC $339.00

Saving per person with the Sightseeing Pass $416.46

5 Day savings with the Sightseeing Pass

5th Day in NYC Outlet Shopping Day

Woodbury Common Premium Outlets

Normal Entry Price $47.00

Fotografiska New York

Normal Entry Price $26.00

2h Central Park Guided Bike Tour by Fancy Apple

Normal Entry Price $60.00

Bowlero Times Square

Cost Without The Sightseeing Pass $158.00

New York City 6 Day Itinerary

6 days in NYC is the perfect duration for NYC trip to see it all. Tick off all the must have attractions, visit the hidden gems, go on a shopping tour, discover local cuisine and enjoy Broadway shows. With 6 Day NYC Sightseeing Pass you can see and do it with your budget under control. Enjoy unlimited hop-on hop-off Sightseeing Buses and over 100 attraction options.

Total cost without The Sightseeing Pass $881.46

6 Day Adult Sightseeing Pass - NYC $359.00

Saving per person with the Sightseeing Pass $522.46

6 Day savings with the Sightseeing Pass

6th Day in NYC On the West Side

E-Bike, Bike or Scooter rental by Bike Rent NYC

Normal Entry Price $40.00

American Museum of Natural History

Normal Entry Price $28.00

New York Historical Society Museum and Library

Normal Entry Price $22.00

Intrepid Museum

Normal Entry Price $36.00

AG Adriano Goldschmied at The Shops & Restaurants at Hudson Yards

Normal Entry Price $0.00

Cost Without The Sightseeing Pass $126.00

New York City 7 Day Itinerary

A full week in NYC? You will have a great time! There is so many unique places to visit, but – Keep your budget under control and use Fast Track entry at many of the busiest attractions with New York Sightseeing Pass, otherwise you might spend a small fortune on the entry fees.

Total cost without The Sightseeing Pass $960.46

7 Day Adult Sightseeing Pass - NYC $379.00

Saving per person with the Sightseeing Pass $581.46

7 Day savings with the Sightseeing Pass

7th Day in NYC Museum Mile

Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

Normal Entry Price $30.00

Museum of the City of New York

Normal Entry Price $20.00

El Museo del Barrio

Normal Entry Price $9.00

Scavenger Hunts - New York

Cost Without The Sightseeing Pass $79.00

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4 Days in New York Itinerary: Ultimate NYC Guide by a Local

4 Days in New York Itinerary

Table of Contents

Even though I grew up 50 miles outside of NYC (and now live there) and took every chance to explore it, I still have so much on my New York City bucket list. This 4 Days in New York itinerary will help you pack in a ton in just a short amount of time!

This guide is broken down by day and includes tips on where to stay, what to do and most importantly, where to eat and drink! Make sure you’re prepared with excellent walking shoes and check out the New York City Pass for the best value access to over 100 New York attractions. It’s an easy way to save money during your days in New York.

New York City Travel Tips

• Currency: American Dollars
• Language: English
• Best time to go: April, June, September, December(the Holidays are magical)
• Electric: 120V, Plug type A
• Drive on the right side of the road.
• Tap water is safe to drink.
• Tipping: 12-20% is typical at restaurants.
• Don’t be afraid of the subway – get an app to help you, like city mapper or use google maps!
• If you stay in an outer borough, make sure you stay near a convenient subway station .
• To prevent looking like a tourist : Don’t stop on the streets for people trying to sell you tickets or make you watch their dance sequence.

What to Pack for 4 Days in New York City

What to pack for New York will vary depending on what time of the year you go. NYC gets all 4 seasons so what you pack for December will be different than what you pack for July. Always check the weather before you trip and don’t worry if you forget something, there’s so much shopping in New York, you’ll be able to buy what you need and then some.

What you’ll always need for a New York itinerary:

• A camera to capture all of your best New York moments!
• A cute day bag if you don’t want to make any trips back to the hotel. And this doesn’t mean you should carry a purse as well. Go with just one cute bag to look more city chic.
• Jeans.. because jeans are life.
• Comfortable shoes for walking, but please don’t where gym shoes, fashion sneakers are okay. My converse and adidas are my go to shoes.
• Shoes for going out.
• One nice outfit if you dine or drink anywhere fancy. Some clubs or old school establishments may have a dress code.
• A layering sweater. (even in summer you might need a light sweater for while you’re inside in the A.C. or if the temperature drops in the evening)

Top of the Rock

How to get to New York City

Fly, bus, train or even cruise into New York City.

Fly into NYC

There are 3 major airports in/close to New York City with the addition of Stewart Airport a bit further. All of these airports have public transportations in the city. Sometimes these airports can be a nightmare so just stay on your toes. JFK and Laguardia are both under construction which can make your life difficult so know where you are going. Please realize that the below travel times are estimations.

• JFK   Airport – Takes about 1 hour to get to Penn station via public transportation and from Penn Station you have plenty of transfer options.
• Laguardia Airport – Takes 45 minutes to get to Grand Central or Penn Station on public transportation. Both stations have a ton of different transfer options.
• Newark Airport – This airport is just over the river in NJ. It takes about 40 minutes to get to Penn Station on public transportation .
• Stewart Airport- If for some reason you are flying into Stewart airport you need to coordinate with the NYC Express Bus . Purchase your tickets in advance and board with mobile ticket.  Journey time to Port Authority in Manhattan is approximately 90 minutes.

The major Bus Station in NYC is Port Authority. It’s located in Midtown West next to Times Square.  You can connect to subway stations A, C, E , N, Q, R, W, 1, 2, 3, and 7 trains, as well as the shuttle to  Grand Central Terminal. Don’t be mistaken, the shuttle or S is a train, not a bus.

The main train stations in NYC are NY Penn Station and Grand Central Terminal. Both are located in Midtown. Be careful when you are purchasing your ticket that you don’t mistake Newark Penn Station for NY Penn Station because Newark is in New Jersey.

Brooklyn Bridge

How to get around new york city.

Google maps will tell you all of the different way to get around the city and you can use it right on your phone! The Subway is the most popular form of travel for locals and is typically the fastest!

• Walk!  I love to walk everywhere I can. There is always so much to see so when possible this is my favourite way to get around.
• Uber/Lyft is definitely your friend. Although not always cheaper than taxis, at least you know what you’re paying for. I find this much easier with groups because you decide you want to pay the price or not instead of just watching the meter.  You will need to be careful at busy times like rush hour or when it’s raining for price surges.
• Taxis   are personally not my favorite because if you get stuck in traffic the fare will just keep going up. Once you sit in the taxi you’ve already spent $2.50. Taking taxis in NYC can deplete your spending money pretty darn quickly.
• The Subway/Bus   is not always perfect but for the price it really is terrific.  A subway or bus ride costs $2.75 to get anywhere. You could literally go from the Upper West Side to Brooklyn or from Queens to the Seaport for the same low price of $2.75. It will definitely help you fit more into your 4 days in New York City itinerary.
• The Ferry system. Yes, you heard me NYC has a ferry system! This is a wonderful option to stay above ground and see the city from the water for the same price as a subway ride. If the weather is nice it’s like a free cruise!

If you’re in NYC for a week you can buy an unlimited 7 day subway/bus pass for $33 . Even if you’re only doing 4 days in NYC it’s probably still worth it as I’m sure you will take the subway or bus more than 12 times.

Where to Stay

You’ll want to stay somewhere central to everything you want to see in your 4 days in NYC, especially if it’s your first time in New York. I’d suggest somewhere in midtown or lower Manhattan verses Brooklyn because it will make it more convenient. With that being said, some of my favorite hotels are in downtown Manhattan and Brooklyn.

If you have your heart set on an outer burrow,  just make sure the hotel in close to a convenient subway station!

Hotels in New York City

People love to ask for a “cheap” hotel, but those really don’t exist and if they do you probably don’t want to stay in them! However, there are some budget options! These are a few of the most popular hotels for each price range.

• Pod Times Square
• The Jane Hotel
• Moxy Downtown
• Freehand Hotel
• The Nomad Hotel
• Gramercy Park Hotel
• 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge

Must Try Foods during while in New York

When you think of New York you must think of all the food! For instance, we are most famous for our pizza, bagels and burgers along with plenty of international cuisines. If you’re spending 4 days in NYC you’ll definitely be able to fit a few of these delicious locations into your 4 days in NYC itinerary!

Where to eat Pizza in New York

If you fail to eat pizza during you 4 days in NYC, you’ve gone terribly wrong. Oh and please don’t waste your pizza calories on dollar slices or Sbarros, please!!

• Artichoke Pizza for the most decadent slice of well, artichoke pizza. No red sauce on this slice just creamy artichoke sauce.
• Joe’s Pizza for your classic New York slice.
• Prince Street Pizza serves a perfect square pepperoni slice.

Where to eat Bagels in New York

Bagels are my kryptonite. What can I say, I’m a total carb fanatic. There’s nothing like a fresh, still-warm bagel with cream cheese. Drool.

• Ess-a-bagel for old school bagels. Choose from dozens of cream cheese flavours, smoked fish or reuben.
• Russ & Daughters is a Jewish bakery and cafe best known for bagels with lox.

Where to eat Pastrami in New York

• Katz Deli is the spot for the best pastrami you’ll ever have. It’s a little intimidating walking in here. When you enter the deli  you actually walk through a turnstile. You get on line at one of the “cutters” who are standing behind a raised counter and tell them what you want. The sandwich is $25 but you can probably share it, they give you a ton of meat with 2 pickles on the side.

Where to eat a Burger New York City

Whether you’re in the mood for a classic burger, or something with a twist, New York has got you covered.

• Emmy Squared for the best burger in NYC. Two dry aged beef patties in a pretzel bun. The most refined meat you will ever eat. The quality of the meat and richness coupled with the toppings make you savor every bite.
• Raoul’s for a French take on the burger. They only serve 12 a day and you must be sitting at the bar. Arrive when the bar opens at 5:00 to snag your seat. They start taking food orders at 5:30.
• Shake Shack is the best fast food burger in my opinion. Go to the original location at Madison Square Park which has outdoor seating only and a view of the Flatiron Building.

Where to eat Pasta

• Bar Pitti is a classic spot for home made pasta and Italian favourites in a casual setting. They don’t take reservations which I kind of love. The first time I went here I ended up sitting next to Uma Thurman! The specials are a big portion of the options, so pay attention to those!

Where to go for Coffee

New Yorkers take their caffeine seriously, so it’s no wonder there are plenty of cute places to have a coffee .

• Felix Roasting Co . has a regal and glam feel to it. A temporary escape from the streets of New York.
• Maman is a french chic cafe that gives you all the best vibes.
• Remi Flower and Coffee is one of my favorite places to grab a cup of joe. The setting inside a flower shop is lovely.

New York Itinerary: Day 1. Uptown Manhattan + Central Park + Times Square

Central park walking tour.

Start off day one at Central Park. Loeb Boat House, Bethsheda Fountain, Bow Bridge and Alice and Wonderland statue are all quite close to each other which makes it easy to see them all at once.  They are also some of the best photos spots in Central Park.   You can enter on East 72nd Street to see them all.

• Loeb Boat House – The row boats are seasonal and only open from 10 until sundown. I’ve gone there for about 11:30 and didn’t have to wait too long. The row boats are $15 for 1 hour plus a $20 deposit. CASH ONLY
• Bethsheda Fountain is a beautiful fountain with 2 sweeping staircases on either side. You’ll definitely recognize this spots from the movies!
• Bow Bridge is another classic spot. It’s a cast iron bridging acting as a connection between the two sides of the lake.
• Alice and Wonderland Statue comes straight out of the Lewis Carrol storybook. A bronze statue of the characters Alice, the white rabbit and the Mad Hatter.
• Belvedere Castle is somewhat of a hidden gem, even though it was created in 1872.  You can get a view of the The Great Lawn from the observation deck.

Subway Stations closest to Central Park include West 92nd St. (B, C),  East 92nd St.(Q, M, R),  West 86th St.(1,2),  East 86th St. (4,5,6, Q) West 81st St. (B, C), West 72nd St. (B,C)East 77th St. (4,5,6), 59th St. Colombus Circle(1,2,3),  57th St./7th Ave (N,Q,R,W), 57th St. (F), 5th Ave/59th St. (N,W,R).

Food near Central Park

Food inside the park consists mainly of take away vendors selling hot dogs or pretzels. The two sit down restaurants are  Loeb Boat House and Tavern on the Green both of which are classic American restaurants with a mid range to high end price point and atmosphere.  This is a common theme for many of the restaurants surrounding Central Park. Obviously, if none of the above suit   your taste it may be worth grabbing bagels and snacks before you enter the park. There happens to be a handy food market at Colombus Circle called Turnstyle Underground Market with a variety of to-go options.

Must Visit Museums

• The Met (Upper East Side) or Metropolitan Museum of Art has a $25 admission Fee.  Located on the Eastside of the park. If you plan on doing many of the top attractions and museums it may be worth purchasing the New York City Pass . Fast travel option at many locations to skip the line!
• National History Museum (Upper West Side) Entrance to the museum is on a “pay as you wish” basis. This museum is located on the west side of the park.
• MoMa   (Midtown) or the Museum of Modern Art.

Times Square + Broadway Show

Can you really spend 4 days in New York without seeing Times Square and a Show?! I like going to Times Square at dusk because it’s amazing to watch the lights come alive, however it will be very busy around this time. If you are planning on seeing a show You can prebook your tickets or take a chance at the discount ticket booth in the middle of Times Square.

New York Itinerary :  Day 2. Midtown Manhattan + Grand Central + Empire State Building

Start off day 2 of your 4 days in New York with a walking tour in midtown.   It’s a great way to get your bearings and learn some interesting facts about New York City. There are so many options to consider from history tours to food tours or very niche ones like a Superhero tour. An additional option is to do a self guided tour with the help of this NYC itinerary. I’ve listed these New York itinerary locations in the order from North to South.

Radio City Music Hall

Radio City Music Hall is a performance venue where you can see a variety of shows. From the famous Rockettes in the Christmas Spectacular to comedy performances to musicals.

Rockefeller Center

Rockefeller Center is home to Top of the Rock Observation deck and ice skating rink. This is the where the Rockefeller Tree is housed every holiday season. Millions of people flock to New York City during the holidays to take part in this tradition as well as others.

Grand Central Station

A walk through Grand Central Station is a must during your New York itinerary! This massive commuter hub has a gorgeous main hall with a starry blue sky. Restaurants and bars are scattered through out the terminal including the classic Cipriani, Grand Central Oyster Bar and The Campbell Bar.

Empire State Building or   Top of the Rock

Choose between the Empire State Building or the Top of the Rock for an amazing view. Both are expensive but it’s the kind of thing everyone should see once. However, I don’t think you need to do both. The Empire State building just had a massive renovation but if you want to actually see the Empire State Building in your view than the top of the Rock is a better option. If you don’t feel like spending the money on either of these, you can always opt for a cocktail at one of the many rooftop bars.

Madison Square Park

Madison Square Park is one of the prettiest areas in Manhattan and one of my favourite locations to take photos. It’s home to original Shake Shack and has a perfect view of the Flatiron Building. Eataly is across the street if you’re in the mood for seasonal Italian. Serra Birreria in Eataly is a seasonally themed rooftop popular with tourists.

Chelsea Market has a ton of artisan shops and food. Shop at Artists & Fleas then grab a lobster roll at the Lobster Place. The Highline  is one of the most incredible urban parks in the world, and somewhere that both locals and tourists enjoy. The elevated park is 1.45 miles long on the West side and built on an old train path.  This is a FREE attraction. My favourite part of the Highline is actually right near Chelsea market. Enter the Highline on 16th street for some epic photo spots.

Chelsea Galleries

So many galleries in Chelsea, this could be a whole other day in New York. Check out the Chelsea Galleries exhibitions listing for ideas.

Hudson yards

Hudson Yards is the newest neighborhood in NYC. This is where you can see the Vessel. At the moment it doesn’t cost anything to visit the Vessel, but you have to book a ticket. Some tickets for the Vessel are kept for release on the day so i f you can’t book in advance make sure to get there early.

Hudson Yards also has a huge shopping mall with designer stores, and the Jacob Javits Center.

See a sports game in the  evening for the ultimate NYC atmosphere.

What’s more New York than a ball game? Depending on the season, you can add one of these sports games to your NYC itinerary. Don’t underestimate how much the temperature can drop at night, sometimes even in the summer. You’ll want to pack at least a light sweater with you.

• Mets of Yankees (baseball) – From late March/early April through late September/early October.
• Knicks (basketball) – From October through April.
• Rangers (hockey) – From October through April.
• Jets or Giants (football) – From September through December.

New York Itinerary: Day 3. Lower Manhattan, Financial District and Statue of Liberty

It took me so long to explore all the way downtown Manhattan including Tribeca, Wall Street, and the Seaport, but now I really enjoy it! I don’t remember ever going to Ellis island or Liberty island, but I’ve put it on the top of my summer list!

Tribeca or “triangle below canal street” is a neighborhood with a different vibe. It’s a quieter and more family friendly location than most Manhattan neighborhoods located all the way on the West side.

Form this area there is easy access to Pier 25 which has a mini golf course, park and Grand Banks, a bar on a stationary boat!

Financial District

The Financial District in New York is actually one of the more confusing locations to navigate in Manhattan with many more short, broken streets than it’s midtown counterpart.

• The Oculus is a mall and transport hub with a striking modern design.
• The 9/11 Memorial
• One World Trade Center +  One World Observatory 
• 11 Wall Street is the address of the New York Stock Exchange, but the Wall Street district is 8 blocks wide.
• The Charging Bull is a very popular photo spot so you may have to wait in line to snap your pic.

South Street Seaport

The Seaport District is a historic and seriously cute part of Manhattan. There are restaurants, shopping and experiences going on year round.

Statue of Liberty

From Battery City Park on the tip of Lower Manahattan you can take a ferry right over to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island . Ferry tickets are $19.25 per adult and there is no extra fee for pedestal access. You get two for one with this tour to the Liberty Island and Ellis Island!

Happy hour drinks in Financial District

Spend happy hour with the New Yorkers who work in the financial district. Get in before the crowds to grab a seat at the bar.

• Stone Street is a pedestrian cobblestone street in the financial district.
• Dead Rabbit is must visit bar consistently winning best bar in the world.

New York Itinerary: Day 4. Downtown Manhattan + Brooklyn

End your 4 days in NYC with a trip downtown and then over to Brooklyn. I’ve added Brooklyn to the list because it really has become so popular. Gone are the days that a trip to New York means only visiting Manhattan. If you only have 4 days in NYC it’s difficult to explore the other boroughs too much, but squeezing in Dumbo and Williamsburg is totally doable for your New York itinerary.

Downtown NYC

If you’re feeling up for it, downtown is another great location for a walking tour . It’s a very diverse area of  NYC and is where the best food is! I’ve listed some notable places to eat here but obviously there are soo many more.

• Maman is a french chic cafe.
• Russ & Daughters is the go-to spot for bagels and lox.
• Butcher’s Daughter is a tasty healthy cafe joint.
• Katz Deli is known for ultimate pastrami sandwich in an old school setting.
• Raoul’s is a classic french New York institution.
• Emmy Squared has the best burger in NYC.
• Balthazar is an iconic French brasserie.
• Momofuku Noodle Bar by David Chang.

West Village/ Greenwich Village

The West Village is trendy area for clubs and restaurants. Home to the  “Meatpacking District” a popular clubbing area, as well as Washington Square Park, IFC Center, The Stonewall Inn and Smalls Jazz Club.

• The Garret is a speakeasy behind a Five Guys! It can get crowded, but it’s worth a try for this secret location.
• Wilfie and Nell
• Village Tavern is a whole in the wall dive bar.
• Dante NYC opened it’s doors in 1915 and has been a class New York establishment for years.

Lower East Side or LES

The Lower East side is one of the most electric areas in NYC. I like it’s grit and mix. There are certainly some iffy looking establishments, especially in Alphabet city.

Soho is where the fashion crowds hang out. Designer stores and trendy bars fill the streets. Artists & Fleas, The Apple Store and MoMa Design Store, Pearl Street Market are some of the most notable.

• Sweet and Vicious is great for frozen margaritas and outdoor space.
• The Backroom NYC is a prohibition style bar serving cocktails in cute tea cups.

Little Italy/ Chinatown

Known for hand pulled noodles, bubble tea and Canal street shopping. If you’re looking for a great rooftop try the Crown at 50 Bowery.

• The Crown at 50 Bowery  is a rooftop with one of the coolest downtown views in Manhattan.
• Peachy’s is a chic lounge under a Chinese restaurant.

The Tenement Museum

The Tenement Museum is a really cool and lesser known Museum amongst tourists. It’s where you can learn about the immigration and migration to NYC through apartment and walking tours. Super informative and unique!

Take a walk over the Brooklyn Bridg e from Lower Manhattan to Brooklyn. I like to do this myself every few months! It will take you about 1 hour to walk over the bridge. Please don’t walk in the bike lane, you will get yelled at by commuters!

You’ll have the option of seeing the Brooklyn Bridge and the entire skyline when you get to the other side and explore the Dumbo area.

• T ime Out Market – Hand selected food joints by the editors of Time Out Magazine all under one roof.
• Washington Street Vantage Point – Arguably one the most Instagrammable  places in NYC.
• Amazing views of Manhattan Skyline line this part of Brooklyn. You need to get out of Manhattan to truly see it all!

Williamsburg

As you may have heard, Williamsburg is one of the trendiest neighbourhoods in Brooklyn. Places like the Brooklyn Brewery, Smorgasburg, vintage stores and plenty of bars and restaurants will keep you busy for the rest of your day and night! Here are a few notable bars and restaurants in Williamsburg .

• Pies and Thighs serves, you guessed it, fried chicken and delicious pies!
• Eat at Sunday in Brooklyn for super popular brunch. Yummy dishes like their Sunday Pancakes or Crispy Fried Chicken.
• Go to Maison Premiere for oyster happy hour.
• The Bedford has one of the best burgers ever. It’s made with a mac and cheese bun!
• Skinny Dennis is a live music bar and one of my favorites in all of NYC for its super casual vibe.
• The Knitting Factory is another live music venue.  The bar and the stage areas are separated by glass so you can easily grab a  drink with a friend and be able to hear them talk while keeping and eye on the performance and still be
• Freehold serves coffee, cocktails and beats wit ha living room like and an outdoor space.
• The Water Tower at the Williamsburg Hotel has uncompromised skyline views of Manhattan.
• The Woods is great for dancing and tacos.

Evening Activities to add to your NYC itinerary:

• See a sports game – Baseball, Hockey, Basketball or Football game depending on the time of year.
• Go to a Broadway Show
• See a Comedy Show
• See Live Music
• Rooftop Bars- Typically open air rooftops open sometime in May.

Alternative New York itinerary ideas:

Other activities for 4 days in nyc:.

• Attend a live taping
• Explore filming locations.
• Take a food tour
• Roosevelt Island is a great spot to visit in the spring when the cherry blossoms are in season.  Make it an adventure by travelling across on the cable cars from Second Ave and East 60th St. Use your Metrocard just like you would for the subway.
• Astoria is the trendiest part of Queens right now, known for it’s Greek food!
• Flushing has the second biggest Chinatown in NYC and it’s definitely a place for foodies.
• Long Island City is an up and coming area with quite a few good breweries to check out! MoMa PS 1 is also here which hosts music events in the summer. Head to East River Park for a view of Manhattan.
• The Rockaways are home to the best of NYC’s beaches. The best way to get here is by taking the ferry! Jacob Riis Park is one of my favorite spots because of the other amenities and food on offer.
• Greenpoint is a great alternative to Williamsburg because it’s still a little under the radar. Try hanging out on the Barge if its a nice day.
• Prospect Park has plenty of events like Smorgasburg and Prospect Park Soiree.
• Coney island is a classic boardwalk and seaside neighborhood with the famous Cyclone Rollercoaster and Nathan’s hotdogs.

Staten Island

• Taking the Staten Island Ferry is free and you’ll be able to get a glimpse of the Statue of Liberty.

Check out Get Your Guide for a tons of ideas of tours and attractions in NYC.

Planning on coming to nyc during the holidays read my holiday guide to nyc  or find out where to eat in drink for the holidays ..

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About the author: lauren mcgill.

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4 Days in NYC: The Ultimate (Massive) 4 Days in New York Itinerary

Trying to put together the perfect 4 days in New York itinerary for your first visit to the city? You have your work cut out for you!

New York is alive in a way that few cities are. It is intense, enormous, intricate, invigorating, and ever-changing.

Restaurants, storefronts, fads–they all come and go with ease in New York. Yesterday’s Instagram sensation is today’s quiet dessert shop is (possibly) tomorrow’s closed business.

A generation ago Little Italy thrived, now what’s left of the neighborhood has been given over to tourists, and the Italian community is over on Arthur Avenue.

On and on New York goes–in every neighborhood and every borough, change is the constant heartbeat of the city.

And yet, there is the iconic side to New York as well: the Empire State Building, Grand Central Station, Central Park, the Brooklyn Bridge: any first trip to New York is likely to include those.

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But ultimately, no one person experiences New York the same way, because New York isn’t quite the same city to any one person (just ask the three people we love best in NYC: an employee at a tech startup, a longtime New York bartender, and a Williamsburg-dwelling artsy type who is allergic to Midtown–it’s hard to believe that these three inhabit the same city sometimes).

After many visits to New York, often led around by our local loved ones and occasionally dragging them off to see iconic sights they’d rather skip (see: Times Square), this is what we know about New York: it’s just as incredible as everyone says… and just as overwhelming, too.

We’ve put together this 4 days in New York itinerary to help curb that feeling of being overwhelmed, while also increasing the amount of joy and wonder found in a trip to New York. A visit here is a dream trip for so many–and with only 4 days in New York, you want to get it right.

Table of Contents

Who is this New York itinerary for?

Day 1 in new york itinerary: upper manhattan + midtown, day 2 in new york itinerary: midtown + museums, day 3 in new york itinerary: financial district + staten island ferry, day 4 in new york itinerary: the village + chelsea + brooklyn, where to stay in new york, more time in nyc, getting around during 4 days in new york city, travel tips for nyc.

There are as many possible New York itineraries as there are people in NYC (more than 8.6 million, that is), so this New York itinerary is designed with a particular visitor in mind: a first-time visitor to the city who wants to hit up most of the iconic things to do in New York , while also occasionally stepping a bit away from the crowds and tourist buses.

We’ve designed it for an independent traveler, someone happy to jump on a unique tour or buy tickets to an amazing attraction, but who isn’t interested in being led around the city’s best-known spots in an enormous group of people or boarding one of the giant tour buses that you often see in the Financial District and Midtown.

Of course, no 4 days in New York could hope to cover all the city has to offer–you’d need a lifetime for that–but this itinerary will ensure you leave feeling like you’ve definitely gotten a taste of New York City.

Map of Day 1 in New York

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

Start your day at one of New York’s most iconic museums.

There’s no better way to kick off your 4 days in New York than with a peek inside one of the museums that make the city so famous!

New York is littered with museums, from the enormous and iconic to the tiny and quirky, but for this first morning, opt for one of the big three:

The Metropolitan Museum of Art (Upper East Side)

New York’s premier art gallery, home to everything from American paintings to an impressive collection of historic armor sourced from around the world to Egyptian artifacts to entire Parisian rooms that have been relocated to New York.

Book your skip-the-line tickets for the Met now with no extra cost! Prefer the context of a tour? This one gets great reviews and will show you the best of the Met.

American Museum of Natural History (Upper West Side)

Known for its impressive dinosaur fossils, including the first-ever found fossil from the tyrannosaurus rex, the American Museum of Natural History is home to a mind-bogglingly large collection of specimens pertaining to the natural world.

This is one of our favorite museums in the world, and the one we personally chose to visit on our very first trip to New York!

Shop skip-the-line tickets for the Natural History Museum now with no extra cost!

The Museum of Modern Art (Midtown)

More of a modern art person? Consider making your way to the famous Museum of Modern Art to start your 4 days in New York, which is home to, among many other things, Van Gogh’s Starry Night and works by Andy Warhol and Jackson Pollock.

Keep in mind that while the Met and Natural History Museum are both right next door to Central Park and located a mere 15-minute walk across the park from each other, MOMA is a bit south of the park into Midtown–for that reason, if you decide that MOMA is the museum for you, you may want to start your morning with a stroll through Central Park and then head to the museum, rather than the other way around.

Book skip-the-line tickets for the MOMA today for no extra charge!

Stroll through Central Park.

What could possibly be more iconically New York than a walk through Central Park?

The park itself is enormous and could easily eat up an entire day’s itinerary, which you quite honestly don’t have time for when trying to see New York in 4 days.

Here are a few things to consider adding to your list: visiting Belvedere Castle, rowing across Central Park Lake in an adorable rowboat, checking out the Alice in Wonderland statue, strolling through the beautiful Bethesda Terrace Arcade, and meandering through The Ramble.

You probably won’t have time to fit all that in–but all of these highlights are concentrated in the southern half of the park, south of the Met and the Natural History Museum, so make geographic sense for this New York itinerary.

Wander down Fifth Avenue.

Combining transportation with sightseeing is the best way to check out Fifth Avenue: as you make your way further south toward the rest of the day’s highlights, be sure to slow down long enough to ogle Fifth Avenue’s famous stores and buildings!

Notable locations that you’ll pass on this section of Fifth Avenue include the Plaza Hotel, Tiffany & Co., and Bergdorf Goodman. The Saks Fifth Avenue is also just a smidge past St. Patrick’s Cathedral, so if you’re the shopping type, be sure not to miss that stop, either!

Check out St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

Arguably the most impressive religious structure in New York, the impressive Neo-Gothic St. Patrick’s Cathedral looks almost out of place on busy, modern, consumer-focused Fifth Avenue, but the building is stunning and well worth a look inside.

Pay a visit to Rockefeller Plaza (and maybe visit the Top of the Rock).

Turn 180 degrees away from St. Patrick’s Cathedral, you’ll be facing Rockefeller Plaza.

Walk toward the plaza and you’ll be confronted with Rockefeller Center, numerous recognizable stores (Lego, Nintendo, FAO Schwartz, etc.), the famous ice-skating rink in the winter, and Radio City Music Hall just slightly further down W 50th.

If you’re ready for some epic skyline views of New York, this is also a great time to head to the Top of the Rock!

Want to experience incredible views from the Top of the Rock? Buy your Top of the Rock tickets today!

See a Broadway show.

Seeing a show on Broadway is the perfect way to spend your first evening in New York.

If you’re hoping to see Hamilton, you’ll still need to be prepared to pay through the nose for seats–but many shows, including fan favorites like Phantom of the Opera , Chicago , and The Lion King can all often be found for under $100/ticket if you’re willing to grab the cheap seats (in well-designed theaters, there’s no such thing as a bad seat in Broadway).

Check prices & shop Broadway tickets for Phantom of the Opera , Chicago , The Lion King , and more today!

Drop by Times Square at night.

Yes it’s cheesy, yes it’s touristy, but it has to be done: Times Square at night is an absolute marvel, and finishing the night off here is a great way to end your first day in New York City, especially since you’ll likely be right next door after wrapping up at your show of choice.

Be sure to be cautious of your pockets here–it’s one of the riskiest places for pickpocketing in the city–but other than that, enjoy the lights and the photo ops (just remember: like any other tourist zone in the world, if you take photos of or make eye contact with one of the “characters” or street performers, they will want to be paid–we recommend not engaging with them at all).

Map of Day 2 in New York

Get a classic new york breakfast to kick off your day..

What two things are more iconically New York breakfast than diners and bagels?

Since you’re going to be kicking off sightseeing with Grand Central Station in a few minutes, we recommend heading somewhere nearby for breakfast.

While there are literally endless delicious restaurants in New York (including plenty of amazing New York brunches ), for options within a reasonable walk of Grand Central, we can recommend Sarge’s Delicatessen & Diner for somewhere with a great New York vibe and reasonable prices for a sit-down breakfast.

If you’d prefer a grab-and-go option, Bagel Express is nearby, tasty, inexpensive, and no-frills.

With either of these options, be sure to look up when you’re walking down Lexington Avenue to get a peek at the Chrysler Building, which is one of my personal favorite buildings in the Manhattan skyline!

Check out Grand Central Terminal.

Grand Central Terminal is just as busy as you might expect–and also just as beautiful.

Somehow, in all the TV shows and movies I saw the station featured in growing up, I never managed to catch sight of the stunning turquoise ceiling–I saw it for the first time in person, and it’s now one of my favorite features of the building.

Optional: Not tired of books? Go see the Morgan Library & Museum.

Granted, with a $22 entrance fee, the Morgan (think J.P Morgan Chase) Library & Museum probably isn’t going to be a must-see for any but the truest bibliophiles during their 4 days in New York, but as it’s located just a few minutes south of Grand Central, it still bears mentioning here: the library itself is absolutely lovely, and there are plenty of interesting rotating exhibitions that come in and out (there was an intriguing looking one on Tolkien going on during our last trip to New York).

If you’re not keen to part with your cash but still want to duck inside, admission is free on Friday evenings from 7pm – 9pm, and there are a few other free time slots available throughout the week to see the library only (so not including the adjoining museum).

Marvel at the New York Public Library.

New York’s Public Library (to be clear: we’re talking about the main branch on 5th Avenue here) is an absolutely unmissable piece of the city, especially for bibliophiles like us!

Not only is it absolutely gorgeous–the lion statues out front and the Rose Reading Room inside are both must-sees–it’s also free to visit, which will give your wallet a much-needed break (as I’m sure you’ve noticed by now, working through an iconic 4 day New York itinerary isn’t easy on the budget).

If you go by on the weekend, there’s a good chance you’ll see some wedding photos being snapped out front!

Still want to relax a little after visiting the library and not quite ready to move on? Bryant Park is right next door to the New York Public Library and a great place to rest your feet for a bit.

Say hello to the Empire State Building.

Is there a more iconic building anywhere in New York? Doubtful.

A visit to the Empire State Building–or walking by it at the very least–is an absolutely must-do during your 4 days in New York!

If you didn’t visit Top of the Rock yesterday, or if you are addicted to viewpoints and want to visit both, this is the time to head to the top of the Empire State Building!

If you’re visiting at any point but the dead of winter, you’ll absolutely want to purchase a skip-the-line ticket to the Empire State Building –and even if you’re purchasing a “normal” ticket, definitely be sure to purchase your ticket in advance, so that you can skip the ticket line itself at the very least.

Don’t want to pass up the opportunity to see New York from the Empire State Building? Book your tickets to visit the Empire State Building today!

For lunch, head to either Murray Hill (Indian) or Koreatown.

While Chinatown is incredible, there is so much more to New York’s international food scene than that!

After visiting the Empire State Building, you’ll be in a great location to hit up either Murray Hill for some of the best Indian food of your life or Koreatown for some truly epic Korean barbeque.

There are literally endless restaurants in these neighborhoods, so we recommend googling to find out which options are near you, have great reviews, and are in your price point. Of course, this is New York–restaurants only get so cheap–but you definitely don’t want to accidentally walk into a $$$ place when you’re looking to spend $, you know?

Head down to the Flatiron Building.

New York’s famous triangle-shaped Flatiron Building makes a great photo op, but if you’d like to stick around the area longer than it takes to snap a few shots, be sure to take a look around!

In the immediate vicinity of the building is the lovely Madison Square Park (home of the original Shake Shack), Eataly (dedicated to all things Italian food–the rooftop bar is a cool place to grab a drink if you’re not hungry), the Museum of Sex (which gets mixed, bordering on mediocre, reviews), and the Museum of Mathematics (which gets primarily good reviews).

Also, on a completely related note: Shake Shack > In-N-Out any day of the week, and you should definitely stop by one whenever you’re craving a quick and (relatively) inexpensive burger during your 4 days in New York.

Drop by Union Square.

The #1 reason to visit Union Square? The Strand Bookstore.

Is our bias toward all things book related showing yet? Seriously, though, this giant bookstore sells everything from new bestsellers to used books to rare books to fun book-related items ranging from tasteful to kitschy, and it is worth adding to your New York itinerary.

Make your way to an epic New York Museum of your choice.

Yesterday you visited one of New York’s most iconic museums–but since New York is home to an endless number of museums, we recommend finishing up your second day in the city with another one!

For most first-time New York visitors, this will probably be either the Met, MOMA, or the American Natural History Museum, depending on what you did on your first day–but if you’d rather get a bit more off the beaten track for this visit (or just aren’t a museum person and want to find something else to do), the “More Time in NYC?” section below has some great ideas for you!

Map of Day 3 in New York

Head to the financial district and say hello to the charging bull..

The Financial District on the southern tip of Manhattan is chock full of memorable sights and locations.

The best place to get started in the morning is the most famous of them all: the charging bull statue in front of the New York Stock Exchange.

This spot is usually jam-packed with tourists who often form literal lines to get their photo with the bull.

If you want your own, other-people-free photo with the bull, we recommend getting a very early start.

Drop by Federal Hall.

Though the current structure is the third iteration of the original 1703 building, Federal Hall is worth dropping in on for its significance to a piece of American history that far predates the more modern vibe of the Financial District as a whole.

This is the spot where George Washington was sworn in as president, where the first US Congress was held, and also–a bit earlier than the other two events–a letter to King George was drafted by the colonists formally protesting “taxation without representation”.

Today, the current building (which was built as a Customs House) operates as a museum and is free to enter during business hours (9-5, Monday-Friday).

Check out Trinity Church.

The historic Trinity Church is still an active Episcopalian parish, and the Gothic revival building immediately sticks out on Wall Street as distinctly different from the more modern skyscrapers that surround it.

Hamilton fans will no doubt recognize Trinity Church, whose cemetery holds the Founding Father and his family. Hamilton was also involved with the church life, whose history predates the formation of the USA.

The church and its grounds are free to visit, so be sure to take a peek inside during your 4 days in New York.

Visit the unforgettable Oculus.

Part shopping mall, part subway stop, part memorial, part bizarre marvel, the Oculus is nothing if not unforgettable.

What do you see when you look at it: a whale, a bird, something else entirely? And when you step inside–do you feel a bit swallowed?

It’s a bizarre place, but however strange, also an emotionally charged one: the Oculus is built right on Ground Zero, and, in addition to its other purposes, functions as a somewhat subtle memorial to 9/11 .

Pay tribute to a terrible piece of history at the 9/11 Memorial and Museum.

While most of this New York itinerary focuses on the fun, vibrant side of the city, there’s no doubt that some of the most central pieces of New York’s history are incredibly dark–perhaps none better known than 9/11.

The Twin Towers were in the Financial District near the southern tip of Manhattan, and today the 9/11 Memorial sits exactly where they once stood.

The memorial itself is hauntingly beautiful, and if you have the time (and are in the right headspace, as visiting is an emotional and powerful experience), strongly consider visiting the 9/11 Museum as well.

Regardless of whether or not you decide to visit the museum, though, absolutely make dropping by the 9/11 Memorial part of your 4 days in New York.

Book tickets for the 9/11 Memorial & Museum here . Historical context is especially important here, so if you’d prefer more detail, a this well-reviewed tour is a thoughtful way to learn more about this tragedy before entering the museum.

Take the Staten Island Ferry for amazing views of the Statue of Liberty.

Want absolutely incredible views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline… for free? Take the Staten Island Ferry !

This ferry runs every day, doesn’t require a ticket, and drinking is allowed–so grab a drink (beer and wine are sold at both terminals), sit back, and enjoy the ride.

We do strongly recommend avoiding rush hour both to make the experience more pleasant and to avoid clogging up public transportation at peak times for commuters.

Once you’re in Staten Island, depending on how much time you have, you can either turn right around and head back to Manhattan, or stick around the borough for a bit–Staten Island is largely residential, but it is home to the popular Flagship Brewery and is supposed to boast an incredible Sri Lankan food scene!

Enjoy a slice of New York nightlife.

There is far more to New York nightlife than Broadway and bars–though there are plenty of those, too!

For your third night in New York, make it a night of doing something memorable, exciting, and different than your usual night out–but what exactly that might be comes in all sizes and budgets!

Here are just a few ideas:

See a comedy show.

Comedy shows are constantly going on in New York–find a nearby club with good reviews and get ready to laugh!

Attend a TV show taping.

This one requires a bit more advance planning and being in the city at the right time of year, but if you’ve always wanted to be in the audience for a TV show, New York is the place to do it.

Check out Sleep No More.

An immersive theatre experience based on Macbeth, Sleep No More is extremely popular and an unforgettable way to spend an evening in New York!

Find a small concert.

No matter what your musical taste is, there’s a concert going on in New York City on any given night that suits it! Many of them are fairly inexpensive–we’ve been to $20 shows in New York more than once.

Check what museums have free hours.

Generally, when the famous New York museums have their free hours, it’s in the evening. For example, MOMA’s free hours are Fridays from 4-8pm. If you’re a big museum person, you may want to note which days are free at which museums before even arriving for your 4 days in New York!

Enjoy the jazz scene in Harlem.

Whether you head to a show at the iconic Apollo Theater or a less-known venue, jazz and Harlem go hand-in-hand, and you’re bound to find some amazing music here.

Map of Day 4 in New York

Start the day with a stroll across the brooklyn bridge..

The iconic, magnificent Brooklyn Bridge is an absolute must-see during your 4 days in New York–so I sure hope you’re willing to get up early!

The earlier you get here, the better: the Brooklyn Bridge gets extremely crowded with both tourists and commuters alike, and you’ll have a much more peaceful experience by showing up early.

We recommend starting on the Manhattan side of the bridge and walking toward Brooklyn for the sake of this 4 day New York itinerary.

Enjoy photo ops around DUMBO.

Once you cross the Brooklyn Bridge, you’ll be deposited in Dumbo (short for Down Under The Manhattan Bridge Overpass–New Yorkers love acronyms, or at least not using six whole words to describe a neighborhood).

Be sure to visit Brooklyn Bridge Park, Pebble Beach, and Jane’s Carousel, all popular things to see in Dumbo .

And of course–don’t forget to stop by the intersection of Washington Street and Front Street, where you can capture the iconic Manhattan Bridge photo for yourself–be sure to note the way that the Empire State Building is perfectly framed in the arch of the bridge.

Choose your own adventure: spend the morning in Brooklyn.

With only 4 days in New York, the sad truth is that there will absolutely not be enough time to see everything–so with what time you have to explore Brooklyn, make sure to visit exactly what you’re craving most!

Here are a few ideas of how to have an incredible morning in Brooklyn: go walk around trendy Williamsburg and have a delicious brunch, attend the epic Smorgasburg food festival if you happen to be visiting on a Saturday, check out Prospect Park, go treasure hunting at Brooklyn Flea (Saturdays and Sundays), or take a street art tour through hipster Bushwick .

Alternatively, if you’d rather concentrate on more of Manhattan for this portion of your New York itinerary, this would be a great time to head to Chinatown for some delicious food, or SoHo/Nolita for some upscale shopping and cool street art. For the foodies of the world, this is also a great time to check out some of the best brunches in NYC .

Want to get a crash course in the highlights of SoHo, Little Italy, and Chinatown? This popular tour will show you around!

Head back to Manhattan & hit up Washington Square Park.

Washington Square Park is the center of NYU student life: campus buildings surround the square, it’s a great spot for people-watching (and more importantly, dog-watching), and it’s home to the famous Washington Square Arch.

D ō , the edible cookie dough Instagram sensation from a couple of years back, is nearby if you’re looking for a trendy NYC dessert fix (we loved it the first time, weren’t as impressed the second–but feel free to judge for yourselves!). And, while we’re on the topic of Instagrammable food–Black Tap, famous for their freakshakes, is less than a 15-minute walk away.

If you choose to indulge in a sugary treat, keep it small, as there’s more eating soon to come on this 4 day New York itinerary… unless that is, you’re a true sweet fiend who wants to prioritize sugar above all other cuisines for the afternoon, in which case I present to you the Greenwich Village Cupcake Tour .

Dessert lovers, book your cupcake tour today!

Admire beautiful brownstones & explore the West Village.

The West Village is one of the better-known areas of New York City and is full of classic New York charm.

This is one of the oldest parts of New York City, and the streets have a tendency to wind together somewhat incomprehensibly here, looping back in on themselves and generally feeling worlds away from the wide, manicured avenues of Midtown.

If you’re a 90’s sitcom fan, the West Village is probably best recognized as the home of Carrie Bradshaw and the gang from Friends (if you’re the type to hunt down filming locations, you can find the buildings used for the exterior shots of both buildings nearby).

There’s also a national landmark in the West Village: the Stonewall Inn, which was the birthplace of the LGBT rights movement in 1969.

Today, you can find everything from trendy boutiques to delicious brunch spots to improbably small and #instagrammable coffee shops in the West Village, along with beautiful residential streets.

Pay a visit to the Chelsea Market.

Chelsea Market is practically overflowing with boutiques, shops, and endless delicious restaurants and food stalls (starting with Los Tacos No. 1, which is said to serve up some of the best tacos in New York).

Assuming you didn’t go cupcake crazy this afternoon, we recommend considering a Chelsea Market food tour to make the most of the market here–with a short amount of time, this is a great way to taste some of the best that the market has to offer.

The tour includes a few architecture and history facts as well, so you’ll be sure to stay entertained and to learn a bit more about New York in between bites.

Arrange your Chelsea Market food tour now!

Enjoy a walk along the High Line.

Once a railroad track and now a park, the High Line is popular for so many reasons: it offers beautiful views of the surrounding area, it’s an improbable and eclectic use of space (why put a garden in the sky?), and–perhaps most importantly–it’s a great place to walk off the ridiculous amount of food that you probably ate in the Chelsea Market.

The entire High Line is almost a mile and a half long, and don’t feel obligated to walk the whole thing–but definitely spend some time up there checking out the views and the art.

Head back to the West Village to close out your 4 days in New York City.

What better way to end your trip to New York than with dinner and a drink in one of the city’s best-known areas?

If you’re looking for a memorable final night in the city, here are a few bars in the West Village to consider–they all have incredibly different vibes.

Marie’s Crisis Cafe

This tiny, sing-along piano bar is perfect for show tunes lovers: if you want a final Broadway fix in the city, grab a drink and sing your heart out (don’t worry–it’s loud enough that no one can hear you!) at Marie’s Crisis Cafe.

Like so many places in New York, you’ll probably have to wait in a line to get in… but you can just write that off as participating in an iconic New York ritual in and of itself.

Stonewall Inn

Whether you’re looking for a chance to visit an iconic institution in the history of LGBT rights in the USA or simply looking for a great place to dance, you can’t go wrong with a visit to the famous Stonewall Inn.

Looking for a relaxed atmosphere, possibly some live music, pool tables, and board game rentals? Fat Cat is the place for you.

With a cozy vibe, reasonably-priced cocktails, and tasty burgers, Art Bar is a great option for a relaxed end to your trip to New York.

Be sure to walk through the front room and check out the cozy back room of the bar at some point!

There’s no getting around it: New York is expensive , and lodging is one of the major factors that will drive up your budget.

If you can, we recommend staying in Manhattan, ideally in the Village or Midtown. We’re absolutely spoiled by having a friend who lives just a few blocks from Grand Central that we stay with, and while Midtown isn’t necessarily the most trendy section of the city, it is extremely well-connected and home to many iconic sights. It’s also centrally located and easy to get in and out to explore the rest of the city.

The traditional choices to try to save a bit of money on lodging by getting out of Manhattan–Williamsburg, Dumbo, Astoria, Long Island City–are all quite popular themselves now but definitely take a quick look out there if you’re trying to save cash.

Get much further out, though, and you’re going to be eating up your 4 days in New York by sitting on the subway, so be wary of that!

Our number one tip for choosing a place to stay in New York? Make sure it’s within, say, a 10-minute walk of the subway. Any further, and your commute every time you want to rest up in the hotel for an hour will get on your nerves immediately.

Also: renting a full apartment for less than 30 days where the host is not present on Airbnb is illegal in New York. If you want to rent a private room in a place where the host is staying, have at it–but those prices are high, too (I know you’re shocked).

Here are a few well-reviewed hotel options to take a look at–you can’t go wrong with the locations on any of them, and they should give you an idea about what you’re going to be looking at budget-wise for lodging in New York:

Seton Hotel — Good reviews, a clean-but-no-frills property, and an excellent central location near Murray Hill: the Seton Hotel is a great pick for your 4 days in New York if you want to be economical without dipping into a hostel (New York has very few hostel options) or staying further out.

Check rates & book your stay at the Seton Hotel!

Club Quarters Hotel Midtown (Times Square) — Times Square can be a surprisingly affordable (in relative terms, that is) place to stay in New York. The reason to consider staying nearby has nothing to do with Times Square itself, and everything to do with how well-connected it is transportation wise to the rest of the city–it is very easy to get around from Times Square.

The Club Quarters brand gets great reviews for their customer service and crisp, modern hotels across the city, and makes an excellent mid-range choice. And, of course–you can’t beat being within walking distance of highlights like Times Square, Grand Central, and the Empire State Building!

Check rates & book your stay at Club Quarters Hotel Midtown!

Library Hotel — As there is no end to the number of luxury hotel options in the city, I’ll go ahead and feature one that I’m personally dying to stay in: the library-themed (and aptly named) Library Hotel, which is located right by the New York Public Library and boasts themed rooms, a stunning reading room, and a rooftop bar. For bibliophiles–or just those looking for a swanky and popular property in a great location–you can’t go wrong with the Library Hotel if you’re looking for a piece of luxury during your 4 days in New York.

Check rates & book your stay at the Library Hotel!

A lifetime would literally not be long enough to explore all of the nooks and crannies of New York: there is a truly endless amount of things to do in the city, and its status as constantly evolving ensures that when one trend fades away, at least two more pop up in its place. Such is the nature of New York.

If you are lucky enough to have more than 4 days in New York City, here are just a few more things to consider adding to your wish list: visiting Flushing in Queens to see (read: taste) the city’s largest Chinatown, spending an afternoon at the Bronx Zoo, going shopping at the boutiques in SoHo, checking out Arthur Avenue in the Bronx for a taste of what Little Italy in Manhattan used to be, paying a visit to Coney Island and nearby Brighton Beach, heading to the top of the Statue of Liberty (though to be honest, we’ve heard it’s underwhelming), visiting Ellis Island, trying out a quirky brunch or afternoon tea , and seeing a Yankees Game.

You can also consider adding on some of the city’s hundreds of fascinating and lesser-known museums to your itinerary: the Cloisters, the Frick Collection, the Museum of the City of New York, the Tenement Museum, the Queens Museum (home to an entire miniature replica of New York City!), and the New York Transit Museum are all great options.

Wondering how exactly to get around during your 4 days in New York? Exactly how you end up managing transportation will depend on a combination of your travel style, budget, and group size.

Here’s a quick rundown of your options.

Our number one tip for getting around in New York? Walk everywhere you can.

True, you’ll still likely need to pick up alternate transport a few times a day–New York is enormous–but by walking where you can, you’ll save money, see more of the city, and often not waste any extra time (seriously–check the time difference in driving, catching the subway, and walking–in some spots and especially during rush hour, you’ll be shocked at home little of a time difference there is).

New York’s subway is not known for being well-run–quite the opposite, actually–but it’s still often one of the best ways to get around the city.

In order to ride, you must purchase a Metrocard, and from there you can buy a daily pass, a weekly pass, or simply buy tickets by the ride.

Uber & Lyft

Uber and Lyft are popular in New York (Uber a bit more so), and are great options if you want to be driven and are coming from somewhere that taxis aren’t common.

At one point, ridesharing generally a bit cheaper than the taxis, but changes over time plus many back-and-forth legal battles with the city have moved the needle enough that they’re normally about even on price.

New York’s iconic yellow taxis are most commonly found in Midtown, so if you’re looking to hail one, that’s the place to do it from! The taxis are happy to take you anywhere, but good luck stepping outside and picking one up in, say, Brooklyn.

When the numbers on top of the cab are lit up, that means that the cab is open and accepting rides, and you can stick your arm out and hail it.

All New York taxi drivers are required to use the meter, and we’ve never had an issue with one trying not to. You can pay by credit card.

Taxis are definitely a more expensive way to get around than the subway, but if you’re traveling with a group, it can be more economical than you might think.

Due to traffic, New York’s buses aren’t known for always running on time, but if you’re looking to get somewhere via public transportation that doesn’t have a great subway connection during your 4 days in New York, they’re an option.

You can use the Metrocard that you purchased for the subway on buses as well.

Rental Cars

Don’t bother driving on a trip to New York. Just… don’t.

Pay careful attention to what airport you fly in and out of.

What do JFK, Newark, and LaGuardia all have in common? They all service flights to New York City–and they’re not particularly close to each other.

Be sure to check and double-check what airport you’re flying into and out of–the last thing you want to do is finish your 4 days in New York by heading from Manhattan to JFK when you need to be traveling from Manhattan to the airport in Newark !

Avoid empty subway cars.

If a subway car is empty, there’s a reason for it. Your nose will thank you for braving the crowded car next door instead.

Don’t let yourself get out-museumed.

New York is known, among many other things, for its world-class museums–and if you try to visit every museum you’ve heard of during your 4 days in New York, you’ll no doubt walk away incredibly tired of them.

Save some–make that most–for a later trip, and prioritize just your two most coveted museums on this one.

If you want to visit an Instagram sensation, prepare to wait… and pay.

Freakshakes. Cookie dough. Giant cotton candy. The Color Factory. Mini kebabs served at your table. Colorful, Instagrammable NYC cafes .

Whatever the Instagram sensation is that recently happened across your social media feed, if it blew up within the past year, be prepared to wait in a long line to get your hands on it… and to pay a hefty fee.

There’s nothing wrong with trying these things out–some are fabulous, some are mediocre–but don’t plan your entire trip to New York around them, or you’ll find yourself eating up too many precious sightseeing hours in line for gimmicks.

Consider picking one unmissable dish or experience, and then saving the rest for a different trip.

Bring cash.

A surprising number of New York bars and restaurants are cash-only, so come prepared!

Step out of the way if you need to stop on the sidewalk.

If there’s one thing New Yorkers are notorious for, it is moving fast and being abrupt–or even rude–on the street.

They’re not rude, they’re just busy, and wondering why in the world someone is staring around like a lost puppy in the middle of their commute!

If you need to stop on the sidewalk to check directions, especially if you’re in a crowded area, step off to the side first.

Wear very comfortable shoes.

Any New York itinerary is bound to involve lots and lots of walking, and this one is no different. Bring shoes that you feel comfortable wearing all day, and your trip will automatically improve.

Check restaurant reviews before sitting down.

New York’s restaurant scene is consistently amazing… and constantly evolving. Every day, new restaurants open, old ones close, local favorites come under new management–it would literally be a full-time job to keep up with them all.

For that reason, we strongly recommend checking the reviews (we use Google reviews) on restaurants before picking a place to eat–it’s the most reliable way to get up-to-date information about a location and ensure that you won’t be disappointed with a single meal you eat during your 4 days in New York.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

22 thoughts on “4 Days in NYC: The Ultimate (Massive) 4 Days in New York Itinerary”

Absolutely one of the best reviews I have ever read. Thanks so much for all the details which make my trip planning a much easier task. I’m coming to NYC soon and will stay there exactly full 4 days as your schedule so will probably follow everything you suggest. Keep on the good work and have a good day!

Thank you so much, Trung! Hope you have an amazing trip to NYC!

And by the way I think the Hudson Yard is also a cool place to add in the list.

As a traveller, I love reading reviews and this by far one of the best ones! Thank you so much!!

Thanks so much, Sanisha!

Thank you so much! My 16 year old daughter and I are going to NYC next month and this has helped so much. She is a huge book lover so I love all the library and book stores you mention. I am a fellow Mediaviner so I always love and sharing great content!

Thank you, Amy! Love meeting other Mediaviners out in the wild, so to speak. 🙂 If your daughter wants even more bookish ideas I’d also recommend Albertine Books–haven’t made it there ourselves yet but it looks incredibly beautiful and we hope to make it soon!

Great tips. Couple of questions – (1) Your thoughts about Peter Luger & (2) Do you have any recommended record shops to stop by for that hard to find vinyl?

Hi Pete! Never been to Peter Luger but I did read that recent (scathing) NY Times review. Steakhouses aren’t big on our priority list so it’s never been something we’ve considered. Same with record stores, I’m afraid–not really our scene!

I am planning a trip for a bunch of family to head to NY over the holidays. I have been completely overwhelmed. This review is everything I needed!! I am so thankful you took the time to share all of this info. Thank you SO much!!

So glad we could help, Heather! Hope you and your family have an amazing time in NYC! It’s so lovely during the holidays. 🙂

I am first time traveller to NY and for that matter to USA. I heard a tons of myths about the NY and glad that your write up is the one stop solution I needed. Thank you for covering all aspects of visiting NY including transportation, accommodation, food and places to visit. I will be travelling alone. Do you have additional tips in this case please.

Thank you so much! So glad we could help you plan your New York trip.

NYC is actually an amazing city to travel in alone, as it’s the perfect place to move at your own pace. The only specific solo-travel tip I would suggest is to be a little extra-aware of pickpockets in touristy areas like Times Square, but you should be just fine by staying vigilant! You may also want to check for last-minute solo tickets to popular Broadway shows, as you can potentially find good deals that way.

Thanks for sharing very helpful tips, Kate! My husband and I will be traveling (1st time) from California to Boston, then NYC on NYE for 4 days! Very excited but also anxious about what to expect that time of year -crowds and weather- in the East Coast. Any tips on the best way to get to NY from Boston? We plan to drive from Boston, but don’t intend to drive in NYC. Thanks again, and happy holidays!

So glad we could help, Karen! That trip sounds lovely, we adore both Boston and NYC (and they’re so festive during the holidays!).

I would 100% expect it to be cold. So, so cold. Obviously the weather varies but the winters in Boston and New York are intense, especially if you come from a place with much milder temperatures like much of California (or Oklahoma, where we’re from) experiences. Think heavy coats and long underwear!

If you absolutely want to drive from Boston to NYC you sure can, but I honestly wouldn’t recommend it. It’s a big hassle to park in both cities, you never know what the driving conditions will be like during winter, and traffic can be rough. If it were our trip, we’d either splurge for the train or hop on a bus (we’ve ridden Megabus between NYC and Boston several times and while it’s not a luxurious experience, it’s not a terrible one).

Hi! Do you recommend riding the Staten Island Ferry to see the Statue of Liberty instead of purchasing tickets for the tour?

thank you! Enjoyed your post!

Hi Aphton! We have not personally toured the Statue of Liberty yet (we plan to eventually), but based on tips from our local friends, the tour is only okay–they much prefer the view from the ferry!

Do you recommend buying a city pass or other discount ticket pass for admission to your recommendations?

The last time I ran the numbers, no, and we’ve always purchased ala carte ourselves. However, if you add in a few other very popular attractions like visiting Ellis Island, and you don’t plan on doing any specialty tours, free admission days at museums, etc, it can sometimes be worth it. The only way to know for sure is to run the math based on your exact plans (and the pricing of a city pass at that time) to double-check!

Absolutely great suggestions.!!! Heading to NYC for the first time this summer for 4-5 days. This is incredibly helpful. Thank you.

This has been excellent!

Thank you for making this, it’s been very helpful!

Super excited to get there this year!

Thanks, Cathal! Hope you love New York!

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Travel Blog | Travel Inspiration

4-Day New York Itinerary: Experience The Best Of NYC In 2024

New York is an exciting city, with lots to see and do, but you can get a lot of enjoyment out of a 4-day New York itinerary.

Sure, you won’t see and do everything there is to see and do in New York –but it’s an expensive city and we don’t all have a huge amount of time and money to spend. Many of us, myself included, might only have a few days to explore the Big Apple, so we need to make the most of that time. In fact, all of my trips to New York have either been 4 or 5-day trips, so I feel like I am well-practised at making the most of 4 days in new york!

This 4-day New York itinerary is based on my experience of all of my previous trips: what worked and didn’t work well. I wrote this with an NYC first-time visitor in mind, and as such, it covers the main sights that most visitors will have on their NYC bucket list , but also a couple more unique NYC experiences . This itinerary would also work well for someone who hasn’t been to New York for a long time and wants to rediscover the city.  

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. These are links to products or experiences I recommend and if you were to buy something after clicking on them, I might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Any earnings go towards the upkeep of this blog, which I appreciate.

Table of Contents

4-Day New York Itinerary – At A Glance

If you follow my 4-day New York itinerary, you’ll get to experience the following in NYC:

• Day 1: Greenwich Village, Flatiron Building, Madison Square Park, New York Public Library Fifth Avenue, The Empire State Building, Grand Central Terminal, Top Of The Rock and Hudson Yards
• Day 2: Lower East Side, Little Italy, Chinatown, 9/11 Memorial & One World Trade Centre, Financial District, Staten Island Ferry & Brooklyn Bridge
• Day 3: Central Park, the Upper West Side, Times Square and Broadway
• Day 4: Harlem, the Upper East Side, the Metropolitan Museum Of Art, the Guggenheim Museum and Bemelmans Bar in the Carlyle Hotel

This 4-day New York itinerary assumes you’ll have four full days, so it could work for either a 4 days + 4 nights duration or 4 days + 5 nights. 

In order to maximise the time spent in the city, I’ve put quite a lot of activities into the first two days, but, mindful that it can be exhausting to explore all day for four days, the second two days have a slower pace.

4-Day New York Itinerary – In Detail

Here’s my 4-day New York itinerary in detail, with recommendations for places to eat lunch and dinner throughout.

Day 1 – Greenwich Village, Midtown & Fifth Avenue

Start your day by exploring the cutest neighbourhood of NYC: Greenwich Village . In the 1950s and 60s, Greenwich Village was the bohemian capital of New York City, the nucleus of art, counter-culture and the LGBT community. It has been increasingly gentrified over the last few decades and these days, the quiet, leafy streets of Greenwich Village feel somewhat sedate.

You could follow my free self-guided walking tour of Manhattan , which starts in the East Village and then heads westwards into Greenwich Village.

Things to do in Greenwich Village include

• Wander the pretty streets – this area has many attractive tree-lined streets
• Walk the High Line , which is an elevated walkway starting at Gansevoort Street and Washington Street and heading north into Chelsea (although you’ll need to either start early or only do a short bit of this if you want to fit in the rest of what I have planned for Day 1!)
• Washington Square Park , a vibrant city park that contains the Washington Square Arch monument
• Stonewall National Monument , which is The Stonewall Inn, where there was a significant protest against harassment of LGBT people in 1969.
• The Village Vanguard , a legendary club that showed folk music, beat poetry and now jazz music.
• See the ‘Friends building’. The building that was used for the exterior shots of Monica & Rachel and Joey & Chandler’s apartments in the TV show is on the corner of Grove Street and Bedford Street
• See Carrie Bradshaw’s apartment from Sex And The City. The exterior of her brownstone building was shot at 66 Perry Street (even though she is supposed to be living on the Upper East Side).

For something nice, I really liked Gotham Restaurant on East 12 th Street, but it’s not low-cost. A cheaper alternative could be Joe’s Pizza , a classic NYC pizza joint that sells by the slice.

Head into midtown. I suggest you do this on foot (again, you can follow my Manhattan walking tour ) – I think walking is the best way to really get the feel for a place. But you could take the subway or buses if you prefer; and taxis if you have the budget.

Tip: if you don’t know NYC public transport, try the Citymapper app, which can help you plot a route via subway, bus or train.

Midtown contains many famous landmarks in NYC, which you can see in this order if you head north from Greenwich Village sticking close to Fifth Avenue (an attraction in its own right for shopaholics):

• Union Square Park – a smallish park known for its chess players
• Flatiron Building – the iconic 1902 tower with a narrow angled front
• Madison Square Park – surrounded by skyscrapers, this small park is a lovely spot to take a rest (and you have Eataly right next to it if you need some refreshment, or somerhere to seek shelter if it’s a rainy day in NYC )
• Empire State Building – the enduring landmark of NYC dominate midtown
• New York Public Library – the calm beaux-arts style building is a rare
• The Chrysler Building – an art deco showpiece and my favourite part of the new york skyline
• Grand Central Terminal – has an impressive interior – even if you have no intention of catching a train, it’s worth checking out
• SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is a new viewing experience with an art installation as well as wonderful views across Manhattan
• Rockefeller Centre & Top of the Rock – the best viewing platform in my opinion with both indoor and outdoor floors offering 360-degree views of NYC
• St Patrick’s Cathedral – nestles between the skyscrapers, this catholic Cathedral is known for its Gothic Revival style steeples
• Some of NYC’s high-end shops, including Saks Fifth Avenue and Tiffany’s .

Some of these are likely to be of more interest than others, so you can pick & choose which landmarks you spend time on vs simply taking a look and moving on.

If you’re choosing which observation deck to go up, my personal recommendation is Top Of The Rock. While the top of the Empire State Building is a classic (and also one of the romantic things to do in NYC ), I think the view from the Top of the Rock is better because it has the Empire State in it – slap bang in the middle of the southward view towards downtown.

You’ll have worked up an appetite, so why not reward yourself with a classic New York steak? Keens Steakhouse has quirky old décor and amazing cuts of meat. It’s the perfect place to relax in the evening.

If you have any energy after dinner, head west from Keen’s towards Hudson Yards where you’ll find a couple of the newest attractions in NYC:

• The Vessel , an interactive artwork structure made of open-air stairways
• Edge , the highest sky deck in the Western Hemisphere, with views across Manhattan. It is open until 10pm if you want to see the city lit up like Christmas.

Day 2 – Lower Manhattan, Staten Island Ferry & Brooklyn Bridge

Today, you’ll explore the historic area of lower Manhattan or downtown Manhattan.  It is one of the oldest areas of the city, dating from the 17th century. The land was originally inhabited by Indigenous Americans, but Dutch colonists built a city they called New Amsterdam (later renamed New York by the English). This area of NYC remains the financial and civic heart of the city.

You can follow my self-guided walking tour of lower Manhattan on Day 2 of this 4-day New York itinerary if you like.

Start your day in the Lower East Side , which was an area known for immigration in the late 19 th and early 20 th centuries. Visit the Tenement Museum to learn about the experience of working-class immigrants living in cramped conditions in tenement buildings.

Early Lunch

Katz Deli is an old lower east side favourite. It’s one of the many well-known movie locations in NYC, having been the setting for a memorable orgasm scene in When Harry Met Sally. Come early to avoid too much of a queue (and because we have a lot planned in the afternoon). And if you do have to queue, know that the hot sandwiches are worth it!

Continue on foot into some of the other neighbourhoods of Lower Manhattan, including:

• Little Italy , named for the Italian immigrants who formed a community around Mulberry Street here in the late 19th century
• Chinatown – a buzzy community that, unlike Little Italy, is still home to many Chinese Americans. My favourite spot is Columbus Park , where you might see people playing Mahjong or Xiangqi (Chinese chess)

Next, head to the 9/11 Memorial and the Freedom Tower . If you’re following the lower Manhattan walking tour , this will take you past New York City Hall on the way.

The 9/11 Memorial is comprised of two square pools that are on the footprint of the two towers of the World Trade Centre, which fell on September 9, 2001. The names of the 2,977 victims are engraved on marble around the edges. There’s also Survivor Tree’ a pear tree that survived the terror attacks and was re-planted in the Memorial in 2010.

One World Trade Centre  opened in 2014, with the  One World Observatory  at the top (although time-wise, you might have to skip this one).

After the 9/11 Memorial, go deeper into the financial district to check out:

• Wall Street
• The New York Stock Exchange
• Charging Bull

From Battery Park , you could catch the free Staten Island ferry to Staten Island and back again.  It’s a nice ride, and you get a view (from a distance) of the Statue of Liberty. For a better view, you’d have to book a boat tour to Ellis Island & the Statue of Liberty.

End the day with a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge . The brick towers are iconic and walking along the bridge will give you plenty of opportunities to look backwards and take in the skyline of lower Manhattan as you get further away from it.

There’s a really special place for dinner just under the Brooklyn Bridge. The River Café is a Michelin-starred restaurant that serves amazing food with a view of the Manhattan skyline and the Brooklyn bridge – it a wonderful at sunset as the sky goes pink and the lights come on. It’s perfect for a special meal.

However, it is pricey, and you need to be smartly dressed, so if that feels like too much of a stretch, consider one of the other places in the Dumbo area of Brooklyn, including Juliana’s Pizza or The Migrant Kitchen .

You could spend the evening in the Dumbo area enjoying the view of Manhattan and the Brooklyn bridge.

If you want to see even more, of the skyline, jump on the subway or get a taxi to Westlight , the rooftop bar on top of the William Vale Hotel in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. The cocktails are great, and the view of midtown Manhattan is breathtaking! It’s one of the best things to do in New York at night .

Day 3 – Central Park, Upper West Side & Times Square

On the third day of this 4-day New York itinerary, your schedule will be less busy – and if you’ve been walking as much as I recommend, your feet might thank you for going slower today.

Start by exploring Central Park at a leisurely pace. It’s a big park (843 acres!), with a variety of landscapes, including trees, boulders, meadows, ponds, a lake and a reservoir.

Some of my favourite spots to check out include:

• The Mall and Literary Walk
• Naumburg Bandshell
• Bethesda Terrace & Bethesda Fountain
• The Lake , on which you can go row-boating (another one of the romantic things to do in NYC )

You could of course bring your own lunch in the form of a picnic that you eat in Central Park. The Sheep Meadow is a popular spot for picnics.

If you prefer a sit-down meal, why not go for a classic central park restaurant: Tavern On the Green (which features in the movie Ghostbusters, if you’re interested in movie locations in NYC ).

After lunch, have a mooch around the affluent Upper West Side and admire some of the iconic apartment buildings that line the park, including The San Remo , whose residents have included Rita Hayworth, Bruce Willis and Bono, and The Dakota , where John Lennon lived and was killed in 1980.

If you’re a history fan, why not visit the American Museum of Natural History , which has a pretty broad mission to ‘to discover, interpret, and disseminate information about human cultures, the natural world, and the universe’. I feel like we all know it for the dinosaur exhibits, though!

Other things to do in the Upper West Side are:

• Satisfy your sweet tooth at Levain Bakery , renowned for their cookies
• Check out another landmark NYC building: The Ansonia
• Catch a performance at Lincoln Center for The Performing Arts
• Shop for delicacies at Zabar’s , a gourmet food emporium
• Stroll through Riverside Park , on the waterfront of the Hudson River

I’m a fan of Jean-Georges , an upscale restaurant just off Columbus Circle on the SW corner of Central Park. Their salmon sashimi is incredible – I had it on one trip to NYC and then I had to return the next time I was in the city!

However, it’s rather expensive, so might not be for everyone. There are some lower-cost alternatives in this area, including Bareburger and Joe G Pizza .

With the night lights on, why not have a quick wander through frenetic Times Square (it’s not somewhere to dwell long, in my opinion) – another great thing to do in NYC at night .

NB. If you wanted to do a Broadway show (such as The Lion King ) while you’re in this area of NYC, you’d have to either have an early dinner or a late one, to work around the show time.

Day 4 – Harlem & The Upper East Side

On the last day of your 4-day New York itinerary, head to Harlem , in Upper Manhattan

Harlem is named for the city of Haarlem in the Netherlands because the first European settlers here were Dutch. In the 20 th Century, its African-American community grew and the area is known for the Harlem Renaissance, an intellectual and cultural revival of African American music, dance, art, fashion, literature, theatre and politics in the 1920s and 1930s.

In the morning, have a wander around the area. You might want to check out:

• Martin Luther King Boulevard and Malcolm X Boulevard , named after the civil rights activists
• The Apollo Theater , a former burlesque theatre and music hall on 125th Street
• El Museo del Barrio , which documents Latino, Caribbean, and Latin American cultures
• Graffiti Hall of Fame in East Harlem

Lunch / Brunch

Try to get a table at the Red Rooster (you’ll need to book well in advance), which serves brunch on Saturdays and Sundays. The Red Rooster is known for its American comfort food and its live music. The Sunday Gospel Brunch involves a full-on gospel choir performance. I was blown away by the performance when I visited – I’d never heard anything like it live. It is definitely one of the more unique things to do in NYC .

Tickets are $12, on top of the food.

After lunch, saunter on down into the Upper East Side of Manhattan. I quite like to wander around here, admiring the handsome streets and smart apartment buildings of this elite neighbourhood, imagining what it might be like to live here.

Check out Madison Avenue , which lent its name to the ‘Mad Men’ nickname for advertising execs in the 1960s, and of course Park Avenue , a sought-after address. On 60 th street, you’ll find the high-end department store, Bloomingdales .

There are some great museums and galleries, here, too.

• Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum is a uniquely shaped building designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Its main exhibitions of modern art are shown for a season and then change. You can check what’s coming up online. I didn’t love the collection I saw when I went, but I did love the interior of the building.
• The Metropolitan Museum of Art (or, simply, the Met) is a major museum with a huge collection of art from ancient times to contemporary works. It is also known worldwide for its glamourous Met Gala.
• The Frick Collection is an art collection known for its Old Master paintings and European sculpture and decorative arts. The museum is temporarily closed at the time of writing, but only for renovation, so it is expected to reopen.

On your last night in NYC, have a drink in Bemelmans Bar , possibly my favourite cocktail bar in the world (and I’ve been to a few!).

Stepping inside feels like going back in time: it has intimate tables with leather banquettes and low lights. Exquisite cocktails are served by immaculately-dressed waiters; a jazz pianist plays live music.

Bemelmans is part of the stylish Carlyle Hotel on 76 th Street and Madison Avenue. It gets its name from the artist whose illustrations decorate the walls and lamps: Ludwig Bemelmans.

As you’d expect in a luxury hotel like this, the drinks are not cheap (priced in the $20s and $30s) and there are cover charges which kick in from 5:30 pm and increase at 9/9:30 pm when a jazz trio plays. So, this is why I suggest you go early, then go on to dinner later in the evening.

How about Italian for dinner? Caravaggio is an elegant Italian restaurant on 74 th and Madison Avenue

Map: 4-Day New York Itinerary Things To Do

Here’s a map showing all the things to do for each day of this itinerary.

How To Use This Map : Click the tab in the top left-hand corner of the map to view the layers. If you click the icons on the map, you can get more information about each one.  If you click the star next to the map’s title, it will be added to your Google Maps account. To view it on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the menu, go to ‘Your Places’ or ‘Saved’, then click Maps and you will see this map in your list.

4-Day New York Itinerary FAQs

Is 4 days long enough in new york / how many days is ideal in new york.

There’s no correct answer to these questions. New York is a big city, so you could definitely spend more than 4 days there and not get bored. And you could also have a great time with only 1, 2 or 3 days in New York. However, I think four days is a decent amount of time to get to know the city Centre, focussing on Manhattan. And it’s especially good if it’s a 5-night trip so that you have four full calendar days in between arriving and departing.

I’ve done several 4-day trips to New York and had a great time on all of them. This itinerary is based on my experience across 4x 4-day/-night trips to New York, learning from what worked and didn’t work on those trips.

What Should I Pack For A 4-Day Trip To New York?

The most important thing for an itinerary like the one I have laid out above is comfortable shoes because it involved a lot of walking around New York City.

In terms of clothes, it’s going to depend heavily on what season you go in. The winters can be very cold (with lows of 26-27 degrees F / -3 degrees C in January and February), so you’ll want layers, a good coat, scarf and gloves.

And the summers can be super-hot (average highs of 85 degrees F / 29 degrees C in July), so you’ll want clothes to help keep you cool (and also sunscreen).

I most prefer NYC in Spring (eg April-May) and early Autumn (Fall), especially September. There’s a chance of rain in these shoulder seasons, but generally, the milder temperatures make it far more comfortable to explore the city, whether on foot or using public transport.  In these seasons, light layers are good, so you can adjust to the weather, plus a waterproof if you get caught out with showers.

How Much Does It Cost To Go To New York For 4 Days?

Sorry to keep saying ‘it depends’, but of course, it does depend on lots of things including the kind of accommodation you like and the kinds of activities you want to do. If you want to try several of the amazing observation decks and tours in NYC, you could be looking at around $40-50 each. Add some meals out and the costs will start adding up.

As a very rough guide, if I was trying to go to New York on a low budget, while still doing some activities and eating out at modest places, I would probably plan for the following:

• $150 a night minimum for a budget hotel, which might well have a shared bathroom (I always think hotels are the first place to cut spend)
• $75 a day for food, excursions and getting around

But I feel like there’s no upper limit on what you could spend in NYC!

How To Get To New York

New York has three airports you can fly into:

• John F. Kennedy International (JFK) is the main international airport for NYC and is based in Queens. You can connect via the AirTrain to the subway, but you can also get a taxi for a flat rate to anywhere in Manhattan.
• Newark Liberty International (EWR) – although this airport is in New Jersey, it is relatively easy to get to and from if you’re staying in Manhattan. Trains go to and from Penn Station and Newark Airport Express buses from mid-town 
• LaGuardia (LGA) – more popular for domestic flights, and based in Queens, LaGuardia connects to the central parts of NYC by bus  

I use Sk y scanner to find well-priced flights.

Where To Stay In NYC

For all my recent New York visits, I have stayed in AirBNBs in NYC, but I’ve started to wean myself off these back to hotels, mainly because I typically travel solo these days.

If I was going back to New York soon, I’d check Booking.com , because they have a wide range of hotels, apart-hotels and also hostels.

Here are a couple of pretty special-looking places that have been recommended to me:

• Arlo NoMad  in Midtown offers rooms with big windows and outstanding views of the city
• The  Dominick Hotel  in SoHo has a suite called the Landmark Sunset Suite with bedroom views of the World Trade Center and Lower Manhattan skyline and two bathrooms with soaking bathtubs with views of the city or Hudson River.

You could also check out this guide to the best places to stay in New York from a fellow travel blogger.

The Last Word

I hope this itinerary for 4 days in New York has been helpful in showing you how you can maximise your time in this exciting city!

If you’d like to get a little more off the beaten path, do check out my post on unusual and unique things to do in NYC . And, if you’re going to be in New York as a couple, you might want to read my guide to the most romantic things to do in NYC .

Finally, if the forecast is bad, you might need my ideas for things to do in NYC on rainy days .

If you like this article, I'd be delighted if you shared it!

About The Author

Martha Knight

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4 thoughts on “4-day new york itinerary: experience the best of nyc in 2024”.

Wow what a packed and exciting itinerary you’ve put together. Thanks for sharing all your knowledge of the city with us and making an excellent selection on activities for a New York Itinerary covering 4 Days. New York strikes me as one of those places that will keep on giving no matter how often you come back to it. Of course as a first time visitor you want to see all the popular sights and have some downtime to take all the impressions in. I agree with you, walking is the best way to explore and make your own mental map of a new destination.

Carolin | Solo Travel Story

Thanks for your encouragement, Carolin! Days 1 & 2 are definitely packed! And when I did the day 1 route, I went further and carried on into the Upper East side – but my feet didn’t thank me the next day, so I thought it would be too much to recommend to anyone else, ha ha

What a fun trip. You saw so much during this 4 day stretch. Well done. Central Park itself is like a small city when you walk the entire park. I sometimes walk the sidewalk perimeter outside of the park but also do the path-track-road too. Big time workout. Plus you have the seemingly endless fields, mini-parks and woods on the interior. My favorite experience: running on the quiet north end in Harlem one late evening with 10 degree F temperatures. I saw no humans for virtually the entire workout but ample raccoons and other wildlife. Special evening, that was.

Oh that sounds really nice! It’s special to find those quiet places and moments in an otherwise frenetic city, isn’t it?

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for Solo Travel Over 50

Best of New York City in 4 Days Solo Itinerary & Guide

UPDATED 9/23/23

Want to go to New York City for an extended weekend to see the top sights? Here’s how to see the best of New York City in 4 days solo so you can enjoy New York without breaking the bank.

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All You Need for This 4 Day New York Itinerary

The ultimate new york travel guide, new york city travel tips, new york solo travel packing essentials, arriving in new york city, getting around new york city, where to stay in new york city, new york sightseeing flex pass / citypass, day 1 – welcome to the big apple, day 2 – brooklyn and then some, day 3 – more free sightseeing, day 4 – high on art.

Here are all of the sites you need to successfully book these perfect 4 days in New York City alone. I recommend you bookmark and use these sites early to lock in your New York City solo travel itinerary and get the best New York City travel deals.

Cheap Flights to New York City

JFK Airport One-Way Transfer

La Guardia Airport One-Way Transfer

Best Mid-Town City Hotels

Manhattan Hostels

New York City Sightseeing Flex PASS

In addition to this New York City itinerary, don’t forget to use my New York Solo Travel Guide . It is a helpful one-stop-shop guide to plan first time New York travel with:

• Popular New York Activities
• Best Time to Visit New York
• City Travel Guides
• Booking New York Travel Resources
• Budget Travel Tips
• New York Eco Travel Ideas

If you’re a first-time traveler the USA, also use my amazing USA Solo Travel Guide full of tips on culture, travel requirements, tipping, holidays, links to state travel guide, and more.

I want you to have the BEST time in New York City.  It’s an amazing city with so much to do and see. It can also move quite quickly, so if you’re not used to this, you may feel out of your element or overwhelmed. So, here are my New York City travel and safety tips for the best experience in New York City:

• The best time to visit New York City is shoulder season months (October and April are lovely) with pleasant weather and fewer tourists and lower prices than peak season (summer) months.
• Wear good walking shoes. You’re going to cover a lot of concrete in this 4 day New York City itinerary.
• Do not over exert yourself. Stop as often as you need and stay hydrated, especially if you go in the summer.  It can be damn hot and humid. I think I’ve lost 5 pounds in one New York City summer day.
• Don’t be afraid to take public transportation. The subway and bus systems are easy to navigate, quick, and inexpensive. 
• Engage with New Yorkers. Despite what you may have heard, many are friendly and have helpful tips about their city they are proud to share.
• If you find yourself in an area or situation that makes you feel uncomfortable, leave.
• Always keep your belongings on you. Avoid keeping lots of things in your pockets.
• Bring a good day bag big enough to fit your essentials, any emergency items and camera, but not too big or overloaded while you’re pounding the pavement. You want to keep your belongings secure and easily accessible at all times. I always travel with my Victorinox Altmont monosling bag for these exact reasons.

More USA Travel

• Planning a USA Solo Road Trip – Expert Tips
• 3 Days of the Best Hiking in Southwest Virginia
• Top San Francisco Sights in 1 Day On Foot
• Spend a Long Weekend in Alaska Solo
• How to Tour the Hoover Dam
• Best of Maui in 4 Days Solo
• US States Travel Guides

Since there are multiple ways to get to New York City, I would avoid driving into New York City, if you can help it.  Traffic and parking will absorb a lot of your time and money.

JFK and La Guardia Airports

Arriving to the “city that never sleeps”, be safe and allow at least 2 hours to commute from either airport to Manhattan. Three hours might be best if you’re arriving during rush hour, which I recommend you try to avoid, just to make sure you’re not stressing yourself out.

If you’re flying into JFK, the subway and most airport shuttles are your cheapest option to getting into Manhattan, but they will take longer.  If you have the funds, the easiest and quickest way is to catch a taxi, which runs on a flat rate.  Here are some helpful JFK to Manhattan transportation tips .

If you’re flying into La Guardia, again, the taxi is the quickest transportation, but rates are metered and also depend on where in New York you’re staying, so it could be pricey . Look for the taxi stand line outside airport pick up area. The line does move quickly.

Consider the transfer options at the top of this page, or try the Go Airlink shuttle service or the Via app , which offers a share riding service for a flat rate .

You can check for the latest taxi rates . No matter which ground transportation type, don’t forget to tip your driver.

New York City Airport Transportation Options

Grand central terminal.

I love the train, so if you’re fortunate enough to take this transportation, you’re going to head straight into the Grand Central Terminal , in the heart of Manhattan. Lucky you. If not, don’t worry – popping into this historic building is part of this New York City 4 day itinerary.

Port Authority

Arrange to arrive by bus to the Midtown Port Authority location. Like Grand Central, it’s a convenient location, unless you’re staying further south. Then you might want to arrive at the World Trade Center location.

Walking is the standard in New York City.  New Yorkers do a lot of walking. They also take public transportation, which is what I recommend as a solo traveler.

You can get a MetroCard for buses and subway services at any one of the subway vending machines or from an attendant (attendant’s take cash only). MetroCards require a minimum purchase amount up initially.  After that, you have options. You can get a Pay-Per-Ride card, a SingleRide card, or an Unlimited Card that allows unlimited amount of rides within a certain timeframe. 

If you want to ‘fix it and forget it’, like I do sometimes, you could just opt for the 7-day Unlimited Card and you’re covered on this entire 4 day itinerary, with Staten Island being the only exception.

More New York City Transportation Options

Don’t forget to hang on to your MetroCard so you don’t have to buy a new one when you got back to New York City.

The subway can cover a lot of city blocks quickly, but the bus can also cover ground above ground providing for more viewing of the city if this is your first time to New York City. 

Of course, there are taxis galore in the city, which could be pricey. More budget friendly on solo travel in New York City would be the above methods of transportation or even the Hop On-Hop Off bus , which can be part of your New York City Flex Pass .

Honestly, this depends on what you want to do and see. Different areas of Manhattan will have different prices. If you know in advance what you’ll be doing, then obviously stay close to those sights and activities. Why waste your precious New York City time getting from point A to point B?

That said, you’ll be all over Manhattan in this itinerary, so I recommend staying in a Midtown sustainable-rated hotel to be centrally located. Of these, the Residence Inn by Marriott or the Courtyard by Marriott are some good suggested stays.

Since I tend to be anxious to get out and about, I pick an accommodation that offers breakfast, or at least a coffee and nibble before I venture out.  I like to save my meal expenses for lunch and dinner. For 4 days in New York City solo over 50, you may feel the same.

Reserve Your Mid-Town Hotel Early

There are many benefits to purchasing the New York City Flex Pass .  By knowing what you want to do in advance, you can look up the price of entry and compare to the Flex Pass pricing , and possible required reservations, on over 100 attractions.

The Flex Pass’s “skip the line” options can also be a huge time saving value. You can also cancel it up to 24 hours in advance, if need be.

You can buy your pass online and download it to your smartphone.  If you can’t download it, there are four Midtown locations where you can pick up your pass. Bring your confirmation with you.

The Flex Pass covers many of the top attractions on this New York City 4 day itinerary, like the Top of the Rock Observation Deck , Radio City Music Hall Tour , and the Museum of Modern Art (MOMA), for example. It does not cover The Frick, also on this 4 day itinerary. 

I used the Flex Pass on this itinerary so it’s a great option.

Another great option for touring New York City is the NewYork CityPASS , however, it would work better on a different itinerary.

New York City 4 Day Itinerary

Now you’ve got the lay of the New York City land, let’s get you out there seeing top New York City sights.

Staten Island Ferry

First, relaxing by way of ferry. The Staten Island Ferry , that is. Use your MetroCard and catch the subway to the Whitehall Terminal where you’ll hop on the ferry to Staten Island.

The ferry is FREE and takes about 25 minutes one way across the New York Harbor. You’ll get to kick back with fresh are while you take in the scenic views of lower Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty , Ellis Island and Governors Island . You’ll see why it’s been called, “One of the world’s greatest (and shortest) water voyages.”

Alternatively, you could take the 1 hour cruise around the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island or the 30-minute fast cruise if you want to save some time.

Times Square

Feeling a little refreshed? Perfect. Hop the subway back to Midtown for some Times Square exploring and shopping (if that’s your thing).

Warning: This is a crazy tourist area, but it’s worth at least a bit of time to see the hub of New York City’s commercial, tourist and entertainment district all rolled into one for yourself. Keep your belongings close to you and no valuables in your pockets.

Now’s probably a good time to head back to the hotel and refresh yourself for a classic New York City pastime:  dinner and a show.

I know, I know… Broadway tickets can be pricey to downright expensive . I recommend purchasing as far in advance as possible and trying to score some show ticket deals . But this is New York City . How else can you best kick off your first night?

Conveniently located, you’ll be walking distance from your hotel to the Broadway district where shows and restaurants are plentiful.  I hope you made your dinner reservations.

I’m no dining critic, so I’ll leave your restaurant exploration to you. Kodama Sushi and Sangria 46 were very nice choices for good food, service and reasonable prices; however, they were closed due to COVID-19, unfortunately. Of course, there are numerous other New York City eats in Midtown to choose from.

The more time you have to dine and absorb the sounds and smells, the better, but make sure to get to your Broadway show at least 10 minutes prior to curtain.  If you’re late, you could end up waiting in the lobby until the next break. That would be a huge bummer.

After showtime, venture out for a night cap or just do a face dive into your hotel pillow.

I hope you had a great night’s sleep because this day you’ll be getting up early and working your feet.

MetroCard in hand, the York Street station in Brooklyn is a convenient 22 minute subway ride from the Bryant Park station.  Walk another 2 minutes and you’ll find the Brooklyn Flea on Pearl Street in the DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) neighborhood.

Open Sundays April through October, you’ll be able to explore the outdoor stalls full of antiques, eclectic clothing, food, collectables, and more. Grab a bite if you missed breakfast.

If you’re not there on a Sunday, then explore the cobblestone streets of DUMBO full of trendy cafes, boutiques and such.

Make your way to the water and hang out at Brooklyn Bridge Park, take in the Manhattan skyline scenery, and ride Jane’s Carousel .  St. Ann’s Warehouse has a gallery and regular performances.  DUMBO has many things to hold your attention in one morning.

Hang in DUMBO for 2 or 3 hours, then grab some grub to-go for your next adventure.

Walk the Brooklyn Bridge

Within minutes, you’ll be at the entrance to the Brooklyn Bridge Pedestrian walkway (watch for any construction) to walk back to Manhattan. Talk about more skyline views.  This is why we start the day in Brooklyn.

Just over one mile in length, the Brooklyn Bridge is a leisurely stroll that could take you anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on how many snaps you take.

A couple of blocks past the base of the bridge is the Brooklyn Bridge City Hall Station where you can catch the Green 4 or 5 line north. This subway ride gives your feetsies a little break.

Get off at the 68th Street station and walk a few blocks west towards Central Park.

The setting and art collection here are simply divine. I have been to this museum more than once. 

Set inside Henry Clay Frick’s former 5 th Avenue residence, The Frick Collection holds quintessential pieces I even studied in art school.  It’s more of an intimate setting than a larger museum. It’s also a shorter visit time than most museums in New York City.

My favorite piece in the Frick Collection? The “St. Francis in Ecstasy” by Bellini. The colors mesmerize me. I can look at it forever .

However, if you have not been to New York City and wish to go to The Metropolitan Museum of Art , The Guggenheim Museum , or other, I completely don’t blame you. These are fabulous places to see, and I will offer that on a separate New York City itinerary. 

I have been to New York more than once, so of all of the art museums, I include The Frick as the go-to art stop for a four day visit.

Alternate New York Museum Options

Central park.

No matter what time of year, by now you should still have plenty of daylight to walk across 5 th Avenue and relish Central Park with all of its beauty, iconic features and music.

From The Frick, walk eight blocks north and enter the park at 70th Street.  There are maps of the park at the entrance or you can download one to your smartphone. You can arrange for a guided tour if you wish. This is the last attraction on your day’s itinerary.

Walking by yourself, zig zag along the east side of the park. I recommend meandering south past the Alice and Wonderland statue , a favorite for kids.

Southeast of the statue is the Conservatory Water holding model bloats floating and racing about. East is the Hans Christian Andersen statue .

Grab a drink and an appetizer at the iconic Loeb Boathouse outdoor bar (check for hours).  It could be very busy but you can put your name on the waiting list. You may even see someone famous. I sat next to Mark Ruffalo and his folks last time.

If you want, rent a row boat .

From there, keep walking southwest towards the Bethesda Fountain , a great place for resting your feet while you people watch and listen to the outdoor musicians.

From the fountain, head south towards The Mall and Literary Walk .  Check out what the local vendors are selling. 

Keep walking south past the Naumburg Shell – there may be an outdoor performance – to the Balto Statue . 

If time permits, you’ll walking past the Central Park Zoo .  Although I’m not big on zoos, it is small enough for a quick diversion, but closes at 5pm on weekdays, 5:30pm on weekends and holidays. It is also available on the Flex Pass .

Past the Gapstow Bridge is the East Drive exit where you’ll walk out to 59 th Street and the The Plaza Hotel . Pop into their second floor Rose Club to keep your New York City celebration going with a glass of bubbly. It’s a great excuse to rest your feet. Again. 

Head back to your hotel to change before dinner or just stay out as-is. You’ve had a long day so it’s your call.  If you have beautiful weather, I do recommend trying dining on a roof-top bar and catch the sun going down over the city.

Alternate New York Walking Tour Options

Bryant park.

Take your morning coffee outside today in the memorable Bryant Park .  Enjoy watching New York City go by.

Historic New York Buildings

When you’re ready to motivate, start a little walking tour of some of New York City’s iconic buildings and history.

Since you’re there, drop into the New York City Public Library (Stephen A. Schwarzman Building). It’s free and beautiful to see. They also offer free, docent-led library tours at 11am and 2pm Monday through Saturday.  Tickets are first-come, first-serve.  Tours last an hour.

Two blocks east is awe-inspiring Grand Central Terminal , one of the most popular filming locations in New York City – more than 50 films and TV shows have been filmed in this historic building since its opening in 1913 (after 10 years of construction). Look up at the ceiling. Amazing.

One more block east is the famous, Art Deco style Chrysler Building .  You can enter the lobby only, but it’s so worth it to see the red marble and artistry of the period. 

Start making your way to 1260 Sixth Avenue for your pre-arranged tour of Radio City Music Hall , another historic New York City building.

Grab a slice of classic, New York zahhh to-go on the way.  Don’t forget to stop by the LOVE statue on 55 th and 6 th .

Radio City Music Hall

If you can catch the Radio City Music Hall Stage Door Tour by 1:30 or 2pm, you’re doing great. Tours start every 30 minutes and last 75 minutes long.

Walk on the stage and through the hallways that hosted numerous, legendary performers who have played at Radio City since its opening in 1932. It’s amazing how much there is to learn about this entertainment institution that almost folded for good.

Rockefeller Center / Top of the Rock

Just a five minute walk away is famous, Rockefeller Center . Walk the plaza and fountains outside first and then enjoy the black marbled hallways before you head up to your ‘skip the line’ entry to the Top of the Rock Observation Deck .

The deck is open 365 days a year and offers 360 degree views of the city. It closes at 12:30am if you want to view the city lights. You can take as much time as you want, but I suggest allowing just an hour should you want to do more than I provide this particular day.

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St. patrick’s cathedral.

Exit Rockefeller Center towards 5 th Avenue, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral is right across the street. It’s free to the public 7am to 8:30pm, but please observe the cathedral’s service schedules.

This marks the end of your third day in New York City.  You may have time to catch another attraction, or just relax at your hotel a while before venturing out for your last night of dinner and drinks on the town.

Try one of the New York essentials for dining. If you have the energy, check out one of the many jazz clubs afterwards for libations and live music.

I recommend an evening departure so you can still have time for a few more New York City musts on your last day.

Sleep in a bit.  Arrange your transportation. Then leave your bags at the hotel when you check out so you can enjoy the day before your flight leaves.

The High Line

Catch the subway blue line south to 14th Street and 8th Ave and walk west to the High Line northern entrance.

The High Line is an elevated linear park and greenway that used to be part of the New York Central Railroad. You can walk its almost 1.5 mile path towards Washington Street if you have the time, stopping to enjoy the art work and murals along the way.

Chelsea Market

Stop midway through the High Line at the Chelsea Market Passage and pop into Chelsea Market to grab a bite.  There are great food vendors and shopping. It’s also a cool place to duck out of the sun on a hot day.

For your final New York City attraction in this fun-filled, New York City 4 Day itinerary, I give you the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA).  There are a variety of exhibitions and must-view art pieces only the MOMA holds. 

Sit outside and enjoy a bit of tranquility before your travels start again. If you didn’t get to eat along the High Line, the MOMA also offers a café for travel bound sustenance.

More New York Itinerary Attractions

More top sights in new york city.

I hope you enjoyed your 4 days in New York City 4 stay solo over 50.

Of course, you can’t see all of New York City in four days. If you’re fortunate enough to have more time in New York City, check out the following top sights and attractions. 

• Empire State Building
• American Natural History Museum
• Washington Square Park
• Statue of Liberty / Liberty Island
• The Whitney Museum
• Prospect Park
• Carnegie Hall
• The Cloisters
• The Roosevelt Island Tramway
• 9/11 Memorial and Museum
• One World Trade Center
• Battery Park
• Brooklyn Botanic Garden
• Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
• Lincoln Center for Performing Arts
• Madison Square Garden
• New York Botanical Garden
• United Nations Headquarters
• Apollo Theater
• Tour NBC Studios
• Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises
• Belvedere Castle
• New York Aquarium
• New York Yankees game

Let Me Hear From You

I would love to hear if this solo New York City 4 day solo itinerary was helpful to you. Post me your thoughts or questions in the Comments section below. Thank you!

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• solar eclipse

New York City, Tri-State experience the total solar eclipse

NEW YORK (WABC) -- A midday darkness fell across New York City and the Tri-State area as a total solar eclipse arrived at 3:25 p.m.

Eclipse mania brought droves of people to Central Park and the Edge Observation Deck in New York City to witness the celestial event.

The eclipse began at 2:10 Monday afternoon as the moon covered a small sliver of the sun. By 3:25 p.m., darkness covered the city.

That's when nearly 90% of the sun was covered, with only a slim crescent shining through.

Although New York City was predicted to get significant cloud cover, it turned out to be a fair viewing experience for spectators amid the high clouds, as meteorologist Dani Beckstrom predicted on Eyewitness News This Morning.

City officials urged New Yorkers to take precautions before the eclipse, urging people to avoid looking at the sun without certified glasses, as it can cause permanent eye damage.

The show got underway in the Pacific before noon EDT. As the darkness of totality reached the Mexican resort city of Mazatlán, the faces of spectators were illuminated only by the screens of their cellphones.

During Monday's full eclipse, the moon slipped right in front of the sun, entirely blocking it. The resulting twilight, with only the sun's outer atmosphere or corona visible, would be long enough for birds and other animals to fall silent, and for planets, stars and maybe even a comet to pop out.

The out-of-sync darkness lasted up to 4 minutes, 28 seconds. That's almost twice as long as it was during the U.S. coast-to-coast eclipse seven years ago because the moon is closer to Earth. It will be another 21 years before the U.S. sees another total solar eclipse on this scale.

It took just 1 hour, 40 minutes for the moon's shadow to race more than 4,000 miles (6,500 kilometers) across the continent.

The path of totality - approximately 115 miles (185 kilometers) wide - encompassed several major cities this time, including Dallas; Indianapolis; Cleveland; Buffalo, New York; and Montreal.

An estimated 44 million people live within the track, with a couple hundred million more within 200 miles (320 kilometers).

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Watch CBS News

Earthquake maps show where seismic activity shook the Northeast today

By Lucia Suarez Sang

Updated on: April 5, 2024 / 7:51 PM EDT / CBS News

Residents across the Northeast were rattled by a  4.8 magnitude earthquake that shook  the densely populated New York City metropolitan area and much of the surrounding region on Friday morning. The U.S. Geological Survey was quick to release maps showing the spot where the quake was centered, in New Jersey, and the area where it was felt.

The USGS reported the quake occurred about 7 miles north of Whitehouse Station, New Jersey. It indicated that the quake might have been felt by more than 42 million people. There were several aftershocks later in the day, including one with a magnitude of 4.0.

People in Baltimore , Philadelphia , New Jersey, Connecticut, Boston and other areas of the Northeast reported shaking. Tremors lasting for several seconds were felt over 200 miles away near the Massachusetts-New Hampshire border.

The map below shows the seismic intensity of the earthquake. The map, which is mostly a lighter shade of blue, shows that the intensity was light to weak, depending on the distance from the epicenter. 

Another map released by the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre on X, formerly Twitter, highlights the eyewitness reports of shaking and possible damage levels during the seismic event. 

#Earthquake 18 mi W of #Plainfield (New Jersey) 23 min ago (local time 10:23:20). Updated map - Colored dots represent local shaking & damage level reported by eyewitnesses. Share your experience via: 📱 https://t.co/IbUfG7TFOL 🌐 https://t.co/wErQf69jIn pic.twitter.com/jBjVw1ngAD — EMSC (@LastQuake) April 5, 2024

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and New York City Mayor Eric Adams have been briefed on the quake. 

"We're taking this extremely seriously and here's why: There's always the possibility of aftershocks. We have not felt a magnitude of this earthquake since about 2011," Hochul said. 

People across the region were startled by the rumbling of the quake. One New York City resident told CBS New York's Elijah Westbrook, "I was laying in my bed, and my whole apartment building started shaking. I started freaking out," 

It's not the first time the East Coast and New York City have been hit by an earthquake. 

A 5.0 quake was measured in New York City in 1884. 

The shaking stirred memories of the Aug. 23, 2011, earthquake that jolted tens of millions of people from Georgia to Canada. Registering magnitude 5.8, it was the strongest quake to hit the East Coast since World War II. The epicenter was in Virginia.

That earthquake left cracks in the Washington Monument, spurred the evacuation of the White House and Capitol and rattled New Yorkers three weeks before the 10th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terror attacks.

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Total solar eclipse April 8, 2024 facts: Path, time and the best places to view

In the U.S., 31 million people already live inside the path of totality.

Scroll down to see the list of U.S. cities where the April 8 total solar eclipse will be visible, the duration of the eclipse in those locations and what time totality will begin, according to GreatAmericanEclipse.com .

"Eclipse Across America," will air live Monday, April 8, beginning at 2 p.m. ET on ABC, ABC News Live, National Geographic Channel, Nat Geo WILD, Disney+ and Hulu as well as network social media platforms.

On April 8, 2024, a historic total solar eclipse will cast a shadow over parts of the United States, prompting a mass travel event to the path of totality -- from Texas to Maine and several states and cities in between.

A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and the Earth and, for a short time, completely blocks the face of the sun, according to NASA .

The track of the moon's shadow across Earth's surface is called the path of totality, and to witness the April 8 total solar eclipse, viewers must be within the 115-mile-wide path. To discover when to see the solar eclipse in totality or the partial eclipse in locations across the U.S. outside of the path, check out NASA's Eclipse Explorer tool .

Eclipse travel

In the U.S., 31 million people already live inside the path of totality, bringing the celestial phenomenon to their doorsteps, Michael Zeiler, expert solar eclipse cartographer at GreatAmericanEclipse.com told ABC News.

MORE: Eclipse glasses: What to know to keep your eyes safe

But for individuals outside of the path, investing time and money are needed to experience the event in totality.

Eclipse chasers, or umbraphiles, are individuals who will do almost anything, and travel almost anywhere, to see totality, according to the American Astronomical Society .

"There's a very active community of solar eclipse chasers and we will go to any reasonable lengths to see solar eclipses anywhere in the world," Zeiler said. "All of us are united in pursuing the unimaginable beauty of a total solar eclipse."

MORE: The surprising reason why a Texas county issued a disaster declaration ahead of April total solar eclipse

Bringing together both eclipse experts and novice sky watchers, the total solar eclipse on April 8 is projected to be the U.S.'s largest mass travel event in 2024, according to Zeiler, who likened it to "50 simultaneous Super Bowls across the nation."

"When you look at the number of people expected to come to the path of totality for the solar eclipse, we estimate those numbers are roughly the equivalent of 50 simultaneous Super Bowls across the nation, from Texas to Maine," he said.

Eclipse map, path of totality

In the U.S., the path of totality begins in Texas and will travel through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan will also experience the total solar eclipse, according to NASA.

Best times, places to view eclipse

Below is a list of some American cities where the April 8 total solar eclipse will be most visible -- pending weather forecasts -- the duration of the eclipse in those locations and what time totality will begin, according to GreatAmericanEclipse.com.

• Eagle Pass, Texas, 1:27 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 23 seconds
• Uvalde, Texas, 1:29 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 16 seconds
• Kerrville, Texas, 1:32 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 23 seconds
• Austin, Texas, 1:36 p.m. CDT: 1 minute, 53 seconds
• Killeen, Texas, 1:36 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 17 seconds
• Fort Worth, Texas, 1:40 p.m. CDT: 2 minutes, 34 seconds
• Dallas 1:40 p.m. CDT: 3 minutes, 47 seconds
• Little Rock, Arkansas, 1:51 p.m. CDT: 2 minutes, 33 seconds
• Jonesboro, Arkansas, 1:55 p.m. CDT: 2 minutes, 24 seconds
• Poplar Bluff, Arkansas, 1:56 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 8 seconds
• Cape Girardeau, Missouri, 1:58 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 6 seconds
• Carbondale, Illinois, 1:59 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 8 seconds
• Mount Vernon, Illinois, 2:00 p.m. CDT: 3 minutes, 40 seconds
• Evansville, Indiana, 2:02 p.m. CDT: 3 minutes, 2 seconds
• Terre Haute, Indiana, 3:04 p.m. EDT: 2 minutes, 57 seconds
• Indianapolis 3:06 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 46 seconds
• Dayton, Ohio, 3:09 p.m. EDT: 2 minutes, 46 seconds
• Wapakoneta, Ohio, 3:09 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 55 seconds
• Toledo, Ohio, 3:12 p.m. EDT: 1 minute, 54 seconds
• Cleveland 3:13 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 50 seconds

Pennsylvania

• Erie, Pennsylvania, 3:16 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 43 seconds
• Buffalo, New York, 3:18 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 45 seconds
• Rochester, New York, 3:20 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 40 seconds
• Syracuse, New York, 3:23 p.m. EDT: 1 minute, 26 seconds
• Burlington, Vermont, 3:26 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 14 seconds
• Island Falls, Maine, 3:31 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 20 seconds
• Presque Island, Maine, 3:32 p.m. EDT: 2 minutes, 47 seconds

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When is the next total solar eclipse in the US after 2024 and what is its path? What to know

The highly anticipated 2024 total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , giving millions of sky-gazers the chance to see a rare cosmic event that won't be viewable again for 20 years.

The eclipse's  path of totality  will travel over a portion of northern Mexico before entering the U.S. It then it will cross 13 states  from Texas to Maine, where the spectacle is expected to attract huge crowds.

If you aren't lucky enough to be in the path of totality this time around, you will have another chance - you'll just have to wait until the 2040s.

Here's what we know about the next total solar eclipse to cross over the U.S.

Eclipse playlist: Fans return to Bonnie Tyler's 'Total Eclipse of the Heart' ahead of total solar eclipse

When is the next total solar eclipse visible from the U.S.?

It will be 20 years before there's a chance to  witness a total solar eclipse  in the United States again.

According to NASA, after Monday's total solar  eclipse , the next one viewable from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

2044 total solar eclipse path of totality

Unfortunately, the 2044 total  solar eclipse  won't have the broad reach across the U.S. as the 2024 eclipse.

The path of totality during the 2044 eclipse will only touch three states, according to the Planetary Society, a nonprofit involved in research, public outreach, and political space advocacy.

The eclipse will begin in Greenland, sweep through Canada and end around sunset in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota.

Pets and the eclipse: Will my pets be safe during the April 2024 solar eclipse? What experts say.

2045 solar eclipse

While the 2044 total eclipse will only touch three states, a 2045 eclipse will have a more robust path across the U.S.

Expected to occur on Saturday, Aug. 12, 2045, this solar eclipse will trace a path of totality over California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Florida, and Georgia.

A partial solar eclipse will also be viewable in 35 other states, according to National Eclipse.com

What is a total solar eclipse?

Any celestial object like a moon or a planet that passes between two other bodies can create  an eclipse  by obscuring the view of objects like the sun.

In the event of a solar eclipse, the moon comes in between the Earth and the sun, blocking its light from reaching a small part of our planet. Partial eclipses, when some part of the sun remains visible, are the most common, making total eclipses a rare sight to behold.

Total eclipses can lead to a period of darkness lasting for several minutes, during which time nocturnal animals stir while confused birds and insects may fall silent, NASA says.

When a solar eclipse reaches totality, people are able to see the sun’s outer atmosphere called the corona, which is usually obscured by the sun's bright surface. This offers scientists an uncommon opportunity  to study the corona .

Totality also offers spectators a chance to gaze upon the spectacular sight with the naked eye, though  proper  safety  glasses  are still required for the rest of the time.

What states are on the 2024 eclipse path of totality?

Mexico's Pacific coast will be the first location in continental North America to experience totality, which is expected to occur at about 11:07 a.m. PDT,  according to NASA .

As the moon's shadow will northeast, totality in the U.S. will begin in Texas at 1:27 p.m. CDT. The path will then cut diagonally across the country, traveling through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont and New Hampshire.

The eclipse's path is expected to end in Maine at 3:35 p.m. EDT before visiting the maritime provinces of Canada, according to estimates.

See  interactive maps of the 2024 path .

Contributing: Doyle Rice, Ramon Padilla & Janet Loehrke, USA TODAY