YOU WANT TO BE A PART OF IT, NEW YORK, NEW YORK!

Come on you totally read that in the song, right??

If you only have three days, it's best to hit up the main attractions. Remember the city is huge and more than just Manhattan, but if you're short on time this is a great way to maximize each day! As someone that's lived in NYC since 2020, this is how I would take full advantage of the time. 

Pro Tip: Make sure you have tap & pay set up on your phone or a tappable card to use the subway with ease before you get here! The MTA card is being phased out and can be a hassle to reload. Also, with the OMNY machines if you use the same card or device, after 12 times in the same week, the rest of your rides are free (you still have to tap, just won't be charged)!

Day 1: Explore Manhattan

Morning:

Kick off your day with a breath of fresh air in the enchanting Central Park. Take a leisurely stroll, rent a Citi Bike, or even try your hand at rowing on the lake. Don't forget to snap some pics at the iconic Bethesda Terrace and Bow Bridge. Some of my favorites are also the Alice & Wonderland statue & the Belvedere Castle. Maybe even have a breakfast picnic on the great lawn!

Late Morning:

Head to the Upper West Side and get ready to be wowed at the American Museum of Natural History. From dinosaur fossils to cosmic wonders, it's a fascinating journey through time. You can even try to live out your Night at the Museum dreams if you're daring enough! It's easy to spend hours here so keep an eye on the clock if you don't have all day.

Afternoon:

Time for lunch! Make your way to Hell's Kitchen for a culinary adventure. Almost anything you want you'll find there! I recommend Kyma (technically Hudson Yards), Bites of Xian, Pure Thai, & Gyu-Kaku. Afterward, immerse yourself in the vibrant world of modern art at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA).

Evening:

Lights, camera, action! Catch a Broadway show in the Theater District. It's not just a show; it's a night of pure entertainment and Broadway magic. Make sure to book your tickets in advance!

To try and score cheaper tickets check out Today Tix, Telecharge Lottery, Broadway Direct Lottery, Lucky Seat Lottery, or the TKTS booth at Times Square!

Day 2: Discover Downtown

Morning:

Start your day with a visit to the 9/11 Memorial and Museum. It's a powerful experience that pays tribute to the lives lost. Take a moment to reflect on the resilience of the human spirit. The spots where the twin towers once stood are truly a spectacle & it's a very emotional experience.

Late Morning:

Take a short stroll to Battery Park and set sail on a ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Enjoy the sea breeze and soak in the incredible views of the city skyline. You can also simply take the Staten Island ferry there and back if you just want a quick view of the statue & which is a great free option! If you do a tour, which I highly recommend, make sure to start early as the ferry from Liberty to Ellis island stops in the mid-afternoon and you'll want enough time to see both spots. I spent five hours between both for reference.

Afternoon:

Time for a delightful lunch in the charming South Street Seaport. Explore the historic streets and waterfront. It's a great place to relax and enjoy some picturesque moments. Or grab a street hot dog or halal plate if you want to basque in NYC culture. I always get the chicken and lamb combo with white & hot sauce!

Evening:

SoHo is calling! Dive into the artsy vibes, explore unique boutiques, and indulge in a delicious dinner at one of the trendy restaurants. SoHo comes alive in the evening – don't miss out!

Day 3: Uptown and Culture

Morning:

Start your day at the iconic Grand Central Terminal. Admire the stunning architecture and grab breakfast at a classic spot like the Grand Central Oyster Bar. It's a grand way to begin your day! There's also an Apple store built into the station with a very unique layout if you're an Apple fan.

Late Morning:

Take a leisurely walk along Fifth Avenue to The Met. Lose yourself in the incredible art collection spanning various cultures and time periods. This is also the home of the famous Met Gala!

Afternoon:

Lunchtime! Enjoy a meal surrounded by the beauty of Central Park or find a cozy spot on Museum Mile. Afterward, explore the Guggenheim Museum for a dose of modern art and architectural wonder.

Evening:

Wrap up your trip with the dazzling lights of Times Square. It's a bustling, vibrant spectacle that captures the essence of the city. Grab a bite, do some late-night shopping, and soak in the energy! If you take any photos with characters they do expect tips. Watch out for scams such as "monks" trying to give you bracelets & then will harass you for money. Have fun, but stay vigilant! 

Final Thoughts

Make sure to check out if you can get discounts on any entrance fees. Lots of museums have discounts for students, military, first responders, and more! These are usually posted on their websites.

Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to create a friendly and personalized NYC adventure tailored just for you!