5 Days in NYC: A Fun-Filled Travel Guide
Experience the pulse of the city that never sleeps in the Big Apple.
22 April 2023
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
A trip to New York City, the city that never sleeps, as a tourist is an unforgettable experience. The city is known for its iconic skyscrapers, world-famous landmarks, diverse cultures, and endless activities. From exploring Central Park, walking the streets of Times Square, to visiting the Statue of Liberty, New York City has something for everyone.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Check in at Pod 51 Hotel in Midtown Manhattan.
- Grab a big, classic New York bagel at Ess-a-Bagel for breakfast.
- Head to Central Park, rent a bike and cycle around. Don't miss the Alice in Wonderland statue!
- For lunch, visit Shake Shack for delicious, juicy burgers.
- Afternoon visit to the impressive Metropolitan Museum of Art.
- End the day with cocktails at the trendy rooftop bar, The Press Lounge.
- Start the day off with a Williamsburg food tour, tasting the best bagels, pizzas and cocktail spots in the hippest Brooklyn neighborhood.
- Walk across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge for stunning views of the city and Statue of Liberty.
- Brunch at Buttermilk Channel, tasting Southern-style chicken and waffles.
- Explore the Brooklyn Museum, with over 1.5 million artifacts.
- Dinner at Llama Inn, a Peruvian-inspired spot with the best stir fry in town.
- Visit Lower Manhattan and the 9/11 Memorial Museum.
- Take a ferry to the Statue of Liberty and climb the crown for panoramic views.
- Lunch at Delmonico's, America's first fine dining establishment.
- Afternoon at the One World Observatory, the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.
- Dinner at The Oyster Bar, tasting the best oysters on the East Coast.
- Visit the famous New York Public Library and browse the stacks.
- Shop for designer brands at the stylish Hudson Yards shopping center.
- Lunch at Eataly, a gourmet Italian marketplace and restaurant.
- Explore the Museum of Modern Art and witness Van Gogh's Starry Night.
- Have a classic dinner at Peter Luger Steakhouse, the best steak in town.
- See a Broadway show at the Lyric Theatre.
- Take a stroll through Times Square and admire the neon lights.
- Lunch at Katz's Delicatessen, where the famous movie scene in "When Harry Met Sally" was filmed.
- Afternoon visit to the Empire State Building and the Top of the Rock.
- End the day with a night out at the historic jazz club, Blue Note.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The best way to get to New York City by plane would be to fly into John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), which is the main international airport serving the New York City metro area. Other airports within close proximity include Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and LaGuardia Airport (LGA).
Car
The best way to get to New York City by car would be to take the major highways leading to the city, including the New York State Thruway, the Garden State Parkway, and the New Jersey Turnpike, among others. However, driving in the city can be challenging with heavy traffic and limited parking options.
Train
The best way to get to New York City by train would be to take the Amtrak, which provides both regional and long-distance train service to New York City with Penn Station as the primary rail hub.
Boat
The best way to get to New York City by boat would be to take a ferry or cruise ship, which provides a scenic and relaxing way to arrive in the city. Ferries depart from various ports within the metropolitan area and nearby cities, while cruises usually dock at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal or the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal.
Bus
The best way to get to New York City by bus would be to take the Greyhound or Megabus, which offer frequent service to New York City from major cities throughout the United States.