Now, you’re here for a week, and you want to make sure you’re hitting all the good stuff without running around like a madman. I’ve got the perfect 7-day itinerary that’ll cover everything from the big sights to some local spots, too.
Day 1: Start with the classics. Hit up Times Square in the morning (yes, it's touristy, but you gotta see it at least once). Then walk over to Bryant Park—this is where New Yorkers go to chill. Grab lunch from one of the food carts around there, they’re usually solid. Spend the afternoon at the New York Public Library right next door, even if you’re not into books, the architecture is insane.
Day 2: Let’s head downtown. Take the ferry to Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Go early to beat the crowds. After that, explore the Financial District. Check out Wall Street and visit the 9/11 Memorial. If you’re into history, the Museum of American Finance is right there, too. For dinner, head to Stone Street—it’s a cobblestone street with a ton of outdoor dining, a bit more relaxed than the typical NYC hustle.
Day 3: Time for some culture. Start at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (you could spend all day here if you wanted). Then stroll through Central Park, maybe rent a bike or just walk around. If you want some amazing views, head up to Belvedere Castle inside the park. For the evening, catch a Broadway show. You can usually score last-minute tickets for something decent at a discount in Times Square or online.
Day 4: Let’s get artsy. Spend the morning in Chelsea—hit up the Whitney Museum and then walk the High Line. It’s this elevated park built on old train tracks, and the views are great. You’ll end up in the Meatpacking District, which is full of cool spots to grab lunch. In the afternoon, explore Greenwich Village—get a coffee, walk around, check out Washington Square Park.
Day 5: Go Brooklyn. Start the day by walking across the Brooklyn Bridge—early morning is best. Once you’re over in DUMBO, explore the area, take some photos of the bridge from Pebble Beach, and grab pizza at Juliana’s or Grimaldi’s. After lunch, hop over to Williamsburg and spend the afternoon at the shops, cafes, and bars along Bedford Avenue. It’s got that hipster vibe but still worth checking out.
Day 6: Museums, part two. This time, go to MoMA (Museum of Modern Art). It’s not as massive as the Met, but it’s packed with cool stuff. After MoMA, head to Roosevelt Island—take the tram from 59th Street and you’ll get an amazing view of the city. You could even picnic there if the weather’s nice.
Day 7: End with some shopping and chilling. Hit up SoHo for high-end stores and boutiques, or if you want something a little more affordable, check out Canal Street for knockoff handbags and watches. In the afternoon, visit Little Italy and Chinatown—grab some amazing dim sum or Italian pastries.
Each day covers something new and gives you a good balance between the must-see sights and some low-key spots. You’ll get the best of both worlds, and by the end of the week, you’ll feel like you’ve seen the real New York City.
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