New York City, the city that never sleeps, offers an endless array of activities and sights. This 3-day itinerary will help you explore some of the city’s most iconic attractions, ensuring you experience the best of what NYC has to offer. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Classic NYC Landmarks

Morning: Central Park
Start your day with a stroll through Central Park. This vast green oasis in the middle of Manhattan offers a peaceful respite from the city’s hustle and bustle. Don’t miss the Bethesda Terrace, Bow Bridge, and the Central Park Zoo. If you’re visiting in the warmer months, consider renting a bike or a rowboat on the lake.

Late Morning: The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Located on the eastern edge of Central Park, the Met is one of the world’s largest and finest art museums. Spend a couple of hours exploring its extensive collection, which spans 5,000 years of art from every corner of the globe.

Afternoon: Rockefeller Center & Top of the Rock
Head to Rockefeller Center and take the elevator up to the Top of the Rock Observation Deck for breathtaking views of the city skyline. The deck offers a unique perspective, including a fantastic view of the Empire State Building.

Evening: Times Square
Finish your first day with the bright lights and bustling energy of Times Square. Enjoy the neon lights, giant billboards, and street performers. Grab dinner at one of the many restaurants in the area and, if you’re interested, catch a Broadway show.

Day 2: Historical and Cultural Exploration

Morning: Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
Start your day early with a ferry ride to the Statue of Liberty. Explore the grounds and, if you have tickets, climb to the crown for an incredible view of the harbor. Afterward, visit Ellis Island to learn about the millions of immigrants who passed through its halls.

Afternoon: 9/11 Memorial & Museum
Return to Manhattan and head to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. The memorial pools, set in the footprints of the original Twin Towers, offer a poignant tribute to the lives lost. The museum provides a comprehensive and moving account of the events of September 11, 2001.

Evening: Brooklyn Bridge
Take a leisurely walk across the Brooklyn Bridge as the sun sets. This iconic bridge offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. Once in Brooklyn, explore the DUMBO neighborhood and grab dinner at one of its trendy eateries.

Day 3: Architectural Marvels and Hidden Gems

Morning: Empire State Building
Kick off your final day with a visit to the Empire State Building. Head to the observation deck on the 86th floor for panoramic views of the city. For an even higher vantage point, you can visit the 102nd-floor observatory.

Late Morning: Grand Central Terminal
Next, visit Grand Central Terminal, one of the most beautiful train stations in the world. Admire the celestial ceiling in the Main Concourse and explore the various shops and eateries.

Afternoon: Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
Spend your afternoon at MoMA, home to an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art. Highlights include works by Van Gogh, Picasso, Warhol, and many more.

Evening: Rockefeller Center & St. Patrick’s Cathedral
Return to Rockefeller Center for a closer look at this bustling complex. Don’t miss the famous ice skating rink (in winter) or the Channel Gardens. Across the street, visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture.

Night: Times Square (Again)
Conclude your trip with another visit to Times Square. Experience its electrifying atmosphere one last time, take in the sights, and enjoy a late-night snack or dessert from one of the nearby vendors.

Tips for Your NYC Trip

Get a MetroCard: Public transportation is the most efficient way to get around the city. If you have a credit/debit card, you can also tap to pay at the NYC subway.
Book Tickets in Advance: For popular attractions like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and Top of the Rock, booking tickets in advance can save you time.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so make sure your footwear is up to the task.
Plan for Security Checks: Many attractions have security screenings, so allow extra time for these procedures.