New York
Ideal 3 day itinerary exploring ALL New York!
Day 1 we'll explore midtown Manhattan, day 2 is lower Manhattan, and day 3 is the cherry on top exploring two extremes, a New York Yankees game and Coney Island.
Included in this guide I link best routes for public transportation from whichever airport you arrive through, how to find the best $7 sunset cruise of the city, and how I can save you $50 on entries to major landmarks.
In this guide are 40 research hours and 40 hours of video edits to being you the best 1 minute guides of all major landmarks. You will not have any doubts of what places to visit with this if it's your first time visiting of your 18th time.
23 Places • 19 Saves • ago
Free
Recap & Cost Breakdown
Transportation
You will arrive at either JFK or LaGuardia. Both are outside of the city but easily accessible via train.
I did book this with the Southwest 40% off deal and points so only paid $11 roundtrip!
John F. Kennedy International Airport
@TravelingRosas
JFK is in Queens so you can get to Manhattan in about an hour taking the E line 9 stops from Sutphin Blvd to 7 Avenue Station
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LaGuardia Airport
@TravelingRosas
LaGuardia is the closest airport to Manhattan which takes about 35 via subway to get to. The airport offers a free bus (LaGuarida Link) from terminals C and B to the subway.
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Details
Uber is also an option but expect to pay ~$70 one way
I highly recommend using the subway! It may be scary to some but google and apple maps both have the option to get directions anywhere using public transportation and that's what I used. Average ride is $2.75 and you can simply tap your card at the gate to get in.
Stays
Staying in Manhattan is a must for me to save time and money getting to most spots I want to visit.
$694 for 2 people for 4 nights =$87 a night
YOTEL New York Times Square
@TravelingRosas
Your stay will most likely be one of the biggest expenses so I checked Airbnb, hostels, and hotels. My recommendation is to stay as close to where you'll be doing your activities to not loose too much time via transportation especially if you're pressed for time.
I booked this Yotel which is a small room in a very modern hotel for $87 a night per person. Be aware most hotels require a tax to be paid when you check in so take that into consideration.
Add to
Details
Day 1- Midtown Manhattan
I walked 12 miles but got to see everything and anything in midtown Manhattan.
Vessel
@TravelingRosas
The vessel is temporarily "closed" to go up but you can still visit the grounds around it. We arrived at 8am and picked up breakfast before getting there to have a breakfast picninc on the gounds around. We were able to take amazing pictures since it was pretty empty as well so early morning is the best time to go.
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Details
Edge
@TravelingRosas
Average price is $43.55 but this was included with the CityPass. No reservation in advance is needed and the earlier you arrive the better. Doors open at 10am but people start lining up at 9am. We got there 9:30am with and had no issues. You'll take an elevator 100 floors up to the observation deck and I recommend going on a clear day because the weather is amazing!
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Details
Bryant Park
@TravelingRosas
Check out for free events in the park. This day we were able to catch free broadway at the park and right after there was free yoga!
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Details
Grand Central Terminal
@TravelingRosas
“I like to move it move it” is all I can think about. Grand Central is the heart of rail terminals and obviously the place of the iconic Madagascar scene where the cops surround the animals!
In all seriousness this is in the top 10 most visited tourist attractions in the WORLD! You can find some shops and tours here too. Check it out if you visit.
Add to
Details
Los Tacos No.1
@TravelingRosas
I can't put into words how good these tacos are. I travel to Mexico on a monthly basis and I know good tacos. These are the best ones I've had in the states by far. Line might be long but it moves incredibly fast so don't get scared.
Get the asada tacos with everything (onions, cilantro, guac, and salsa). Their aguas frescas are also delicious!
Add to
Details
Times Square
@TravelingRosas
No explanation is necessary.
Ok this is my take, no trip is complete if you didn’t at least take 1 picture in Times Square. Lots of tourists, lots of photo ops and lots of good food too. Can’t go wrong with anything here.
Add to
Details
Radio City Music Hall
@TravelingRosas
Nicknamed "The Showplace of the Nation", it is the headquarters for the Rockettes. Even if you can’t catch a show, the iconic outside Radio City sign is a must
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Details
Top of The Rock
@TravelingRosas
There are several observations decks in NYC but in my opinion this is the best one in terms of views. I went around 3pm and we nearly had the place to ourselves. There are 3 levels of 360 views and make sure to check them all out. These tickets are also included in the CityPass so check them out.
Add to
Details
Central Park
@TravelingRosas
Where to start. There is so much to do here from horse drawn carriage rides, bikes, the Friends fountain, row boats, roller skating, picnics, concerts, and much more. You can spent as little or as long as you want here. We decided to stop by for a nap in the middle of the day then took a bike tour to cover as much of the park as possible.
Add to
Details
Empire State Building
@TravelingRosas
Visiting the Empire State Building will most likely be on your itinerary since it's the most iconic skyscraper in the city. Tickets are included in the CityPass but you do need a reservation so make sure to schedule that since they do sell out. The walkway around the building is on the smaller side but the views are still great.
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Details
Day 2- Lower Manhattan
Little Island
@TravelingRosas
Do not miss out on visiting Little Island. I woke up at 4am to make my way to Little Island when they opened up at 6am and it was the best decision of the trip. We had the entire island to ourselves and caught the best sunrise we could've imagined.
It's completely free and they also have concerts and activities during the day.
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Details
Pier 57 Rooftop Park
@TravelingRosas
There are lots of free rooftops but this one is very underrated. Pier 57 is right next to Little Island along the Hudson and when we went there wasn't a single person there.
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Details
One World Observatory
@TravelingRosas
The One World Trade Center is impossible to miss in the city skyline. This entrance is also included in the CityPass and you can save over $15 that way. I arrived 30 minutes before the doors opened and I do recommend arriving early to not be there when it was too busy.
This is the tallest building in the US so you can’t get a bad view here. There is an incredible reveal at the top and two floors of 360 views.
Add to
Details
Statue of Liberty
@TravelingRosas
Possibly one of the most emblematic landmarks, the Statue of Liberty 🗽 is a must see but you do need to get ferry tickets. I suggest looking on Groupon for discounted tickets. There are ferries that leave often from Battery Island to Liberty Island so try to get a view from the top deck. One you’re at Liberty island you can get pedestal tickets or crown tickets although the crown is currently closed so check their website for when they open again!
Add to
Details
Brooklyn Bridge
@TravelingRosas
The most iconic bridge of New York.
You can’t simply drive it, you should get the full experience and walk across it. It takes 20-30 minutes to cross but there’s plenty of street vendors along the bridge. Take your time and get some good pics but also be conscious of the traffic flow.
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Details
Jane's Carousel
@TravelingRosas
For $2 you can get a 2 minute ride but even if you don’t ride the carousel you should walk around this area for incredible views of Manhattan and Brooklyn bridge.
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Details
Dumbo
@TravelingRosas
Slightly controversial, I don’t think DUMBO is that great. My recommendation is to walk to blocks over to Janes Carousel for views that are 10x better!
Add to
Details
Sightseeing Cruise
@TravelingRosas
👏🏼these👏🏼are 👏🏼the👏🏼best👏🏼$7.50👏🏼ive👏🏼ever👏🏼spent👏🏼
I found a Groupon deal for 2 people for $15 and I thought it was a scam but figured it didn’t hurt to try it. I was not prepared for the amazing videos on this boat ride 7-11pm.
There is food and drink on this tour plus a great dj. Please check it out!
Add to
Details
Day 3- Yankees and Coney
Yankee Stadium
@TravelingRosas
I for last minute tickets to a Yankees game and I can’t recommend this experience enough! I paid about $30 for tickets behind home base and I picked up a bucket of wings at the concession stand. I was in heaven. We even got there early enough to get one of their free baseball caps before the game!
Add to
Details
Coney Island
@TravelingRosas
Not many visitors plan on making the trek out to Coney Island but I recommend you add it to your itinerary. You can either take a $100 Uber ride or $2.75 subway ride, pick your poison.
Once you make it to Coney Island there is so much to do from rides, carnival games, amazing street food and even dancing. We went during sunset and picked up a hot dog and elote. Yummmm
Add to
Details
* * *
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New York
Ideal 3 day itinerary exploring ALL New York!
Day 1 we'll explore midtown Manhattan, day 2 is lower Manhattan, and day 3 is the cherry on top exploring two extremes, a New York Yankees game and Coney Island.
Included in this guide I link best routes for public transportation from whichever airport you arrive through, how to find the best $7 sunset cruise of the city, and how I can save you $50 on entries to major landmarks.
In this guide are 40 research hours and 40 hours of video edits to being you the best 1 minute guides of all major landmarks. You will not have any doubts of what places to visit with this if it's your first time visiting of your 18th time.
23 Places • 19 Saves • ago
Free
Recap & Cost Breakdown
Transportation
You will arrive at either JFK or LaGuardia. Both are outside of the city but easily accessible via train.
I did book this with the Southwest 40% off deal and points so only paid $11 roundtrip!
John F. Kennedy International Airport
@TravelingRosas
JFK is in Queens so you can get to Manhattan in about an hour taking the E line 9 stops from Sutphin Blvd to 7 Avenue Station
Add to
Details
LaGuardia Airport
@TravelingRosas
LaGuardia is the closest airport to Manhattan which takes about 35 via subway to get to. The airport offers a free bus (LaGuarida Link) from terminals C and B to the subway.
Add to
Details
Uber is also an option but expect to pay ~$70 one way
I highly recommend using the subway! It may be scary to some but google and apple maps both have the option to get directions anywhere using public transportation and that's what I used. Average ride is $2.75 and you can simply tap your card at the gate to get in.
Stays
Staying in Manhattan is a must for me to save time and money getting to most spots I want to visit.
$694 for 2 people for 4 nights =$87 a night
YOTEL New York Times Square
@TravelingRosas
Your stay will most likely be one of the biggest expenses so I checked Airbnb, hostels, and hotels. My recommendation is to stay as close to where you'll be doing your activities to not loose too much time via transportation especially if you're pressed for time.
I booked this Yotel which is a small room in a very modern hotel for $87 a night per person. Be aware most hotels require a tax to be paid when you check in so take that into consideration.
Add to
Details
Day 1- Midtown Manhattan
I walked 12 miles but got to see everything and anything in midtown Manhattan.
Vessel
@TravelingRosas
The vessel is temporarily "closed" to go up but you can still visit the grounds around it. We arrived at 8am and picked up breakfast before getting there to have a breakfast picninc on the gounds around. We were able to take amazing pictures since it was pretty empty as well so early morning is the best time to go.
Add to
Details
Edge
@TravelingRosas
Average price is $43.55 but this was included with the CityPass. No reservation in advance is needed and the earlier you arrive the better. Doors open at 10am but people start lining up at 9am. We got there 9:30am with and had no issues. You'll take an elevator 100 floors up to the observation deck and I recommend going on a clear day because the weather is amazing!
Add to
Details
Bryant Park
@TravelingRosas
Check out for free events in the park. This day we were able to catch free broadway at the park and right after there was free yoga!
Add to
Details
Grand Central Terminal
@TravelingRosas
“I like to move it move it” is all I can think about. Grand Central is the heart of rail terminals and obviously the place of the iconic Madagascar scene where the cops surround the animals!
In all seriousness this is in the top 10 most visited tourist attractions in the WORLD! You can find some shops and tours here too. Check it out if you visit.
Add to
Details
Los Tacos No.1
@TravelingRosas
I can't put into words how good these tacos are. I travel to Mexico on a monthly basis and I know good tacos. These are the best ones I've had in the states by far. Line might be long but it moves incredibly fast so don't get scared.
Get the asada tacos with everything (onions, cilantro, guac, and salsa). Their aguas frescas are also delicious!
Add to
Details
Times Square
@TravelingRosas
No explanation is necessary.
Ok this is my take, no trip is complete if you didn’t at least take 1 picture in Times Square. Lots of tourists, lots of photo ops and lots of good food too. Can’t go wrong with anything here.
Add to
Details
Radio City Music Hall
@TravelingRosas
Nicknamed "The Showplace of the Nation", it is the headquarters for the Rockettes. Even if you can’t catch a show, the iconic outside Radio City sign is a must
Add to
Details
Top of The Rock
@TravelingRosas
There are several observations decks in NYC but in my opinion this is the best one in terms of views. I went around 3pm and we nearly had the place to ourselves. There are 3 levels of 360 views and make sure to check them all out. These tickets are also included in the CityPass so check them out.
Add to
Details
Central Park
@TravelingRosas
Where to start. There is so much to do here from horse drawn carriage rides, bikes, the Friends fountain, row boats, roller skating, picnics, concerts, and much more. You can spent as little or as long as you want here. We decided to stop by for a nap in the middle of the day then took a bike tour to cover as much of the park as possible.
Add to
Details
Empire State Building
@TravelingRosas
Visiting the Empire State Building will most likely be on your itinerary since it's the most iconic skyscraper in the city. Tickets are included in the CityPass but you do need a reservation so make sure to schedule that since they do sell out. The walkway around the building is on the smaller side but the views are still great.
Add to
Details
Day 2- Lower Manhattan
Little Island
@TravelingRosas
Do not miss out on visiting Little Island. I woke up at 4am to make my way to Little Island when they opened up at 6am and it was the best decision of the trip. We had the entire island to ourselves and caught the best sunrise we could've imagined.
It's completely free and they also have concerts and activities during the day.
Add to
Details
Pier 57 Rooftop Park
@TravelingRosas
There are lots of free rooftops but this one is very underrated. Pier 57 is right next to Little Island along the Hudson and when we went there wasn't a single person there.
Add to
Details
One World Observatory
@TravelingRosas
The One World Trade Center is impossible to miss in the city skyline. This entrance is also included in the CityPass and you can save over $15 that way. I arrived 30 minutes before the doors opened and I do recommend arriving early to not be there when it was too busy.
This is the tallest building in the US so you can’t get a bad view here. There is an incredible reveal at the top and two floors of 360 views.
Add to
Details
Statue of Liberty
@TravelingRosas
Possibly one of the most emblematic landmarks, the Statue of Liberty 🗽 is a must see but you do need to get ferry tickets. I suggest looking on Groupon for discounted tickets. There are ferries that leave often from Battery Island to Liberty Island so try to get a view from the top deck. One you’re at Liberty island you can get pedestal tickets or crown tickets although the crown is currently closed so check their website for when they open again!
Add to
Details
Brooklyn Bridge
@TravelingRosas
The most iconic bridge of New York.
You can’t simply drive it, you should get the full experience and walk across it. It takes 20-30 minutes to cross but there’s plenty of street vendors along the bridge. Take your time and get some good pics but also be conscious of the traffic flow.
Add to
Details
Jane's Carousel
@TravelingRosas
For $2 you can get a 2 minute ride but even if you don’t ride the carousel you should walk around this area for incredible views of Manhattan and Brooklyn bridge.
Add to
Details
Dumbo
@TravelingRosas
Slightly controversial, I don’t think DUMBO is that great. My recommendation is to walk to blocks over to Janes Carousel for views that are 10x better!
Add to
Details
Sightseeing Cruise
@TravelingRosas
👏🏼these👏🏼are 👏🏼the👏🏼best👏🏼$7.50👏🏼ive👏🏼ever👏🏼spent👏🏼
I found a Groupon deal for 2 people for $15 and I thought it was a scam but figured it didn’t hurt to try it. I was not prepared for the amazing videos on this boat ride 7-11pm.
There is food and drink on this tour plus a great dj. Please check it out!
Add to
Details
Day 3- Yankees and Coney
Yankee Stadium
@TravelingRosas
I for last minute tickets to a Yankees game and I can’t recommend this experience enough! I paid about $30 for tickets behind home base and I picked up a bucket of wings at the concession stand. I was in heaven. We even got there early enough to get one of their free baseball caps before the game!
Add to
Details
Coney Island
@TravelingRosas
Not many visitors plan on making the trek out to Coney Island but I recommend you add it to your itinerary. You can either take a $100 Uber ride or $2.75 subway ride, pick your poison.
Once you make it to Coney Island there is so much to do from rides, carnival games, amazing street food and even dancing. We went during sunset and picked up a hot dog and elote. Yummmm
Add to
Details
* * *
CURATED BY
Travel simplified. Making travel attainable to all budgets, ages, and privlages.
PERSONALIZED TRAVEl SERVICES
Connect
with
a
local
expert
to
help
plan
your
ideal
trip
Send A Tip
Support TravelingRosas ’s work.
Select your tip amount
$5
$10
$20
$50
Or type in other amount