New York City 7 Day Itinerary

Title: 7-Day NYC Itinerary: A Comprehensive Guide for First-Time Visitors

Day 1: Manhattan Exploration

  • Morning: Start your day with breakfast at Buvette, located in the West Village.
  • Afternoon: Visit iconic landmarks like Central Park, The Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET) and the Guggenheim Museum. Don’t forget to take a stroll across the famous Brooklyn Bridge!
  • Evening: Explore Times Square, have dinner at Shake Shack or Carmine’s Family Restaurant, and catch a Broadway show if you prefer.
  • Tips: Use the MTA Subway system for transportation within Manhattan. A MetroCard is the best way to pay for your rides.

Day 2: Staten Island & Ellis Island

  • Morning: Take the free Staten Island Ferry (departs from Battery Park) for stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan skyline. Have lunch at one of the local eateries on Staten Island.
  • Afternoon: Visit Ellis Island, where you can learn about America’s immigration history.
  • Evening: Head back to Manhattan, have dinner in Little Italy (Joe’s Pizza for a classic slice) or Chinatown (Noodle Bar by Jean-Georges).

Day 3: The High Line & Chelsea

  • Morning: Grab breakfast at The Smith in Chelsea, then explore The High Line.
  • Afternoon: Visit the Flatiron Building, Madison Square Park, and the New York Public Library. Have lunch at Eataly.
  • Evening: Explore the trendy neighborhoods of NoHo or SoHo for dinner (try Prince Street Pizza or Ruby’s Cafe).

Day 4: Brooklyn

  • Morning: Head to Brooklyn, have breakfast at Five Leaves. Visit the Brooklyn Museum or DUMBO for a great view of Manhattan skyline.
  • Afternoon: Explore Williamsburg, home to hipster culture, artisanal coffee shops, and indie boutiques (try Stumptown Coffee Roasters or Artists & Fleas).
  • Evening: Dine in Williamsburg at Maison Yaki or Lucali, followed by a drink at Night of Joy.

Day 5: Rockefeller Center, Top of the Rock & The Rockettes

  • Morning: Have breakfast at The Bowery Hotel’s Garden Bar and visit Rockefeller Center.
  • Afternoon: Spend your afternoon shopping on Fifth Avenue or exploring the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum.
  • Evening: Go up to Top of the Rock for stunning city views at sunset, followed by dinner and a show of The Rockettes’ Christmas Spectacular (November through December) or Radio City Music Hall Stage Door Live! (rest of the year).

Day 6: Central Park & Upper West Side

  • Morning: Have breakfast in Central Park at Loeb Boathouse before exploring Strawberry Fields and Bethesda Terrace.
  • Afternoon: Visit the American Museum of Natural History or The Cloisters, then grab lunch at Zabar’s.
  • Evening: Explore the Lincoln Center district for dinner and performances (check out their events calendar).

Day 7: Finale & Farewell

  • Morning: Have a leisurely breakfast, then visit any missed attractions or neighborhoods before checking out of your hotel.
  • Afternoon: If time allows, explore Grand Central Terminal, the Oculus, or the World Trade Center Observatory. Have a final meal in NYC at a place that resonated with you during your trip.

Things to know:

  • New York is a 24/7 city, so there’s always something happening!
  • Tipping is customary and expected in restaurants, bars, and taxi services.
  • Use the Citymapper app for seamless navigation within the city.
  • Stay safe: Avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep your belongings secure.