7 days in New York City

New York City is more than a destination — it’s an experience. The constant motion, flashing lights, and endless possibilities make every day an adventure. Whether you’re gazing from the top of the Empire State Building or grabbing a late-night slice, the city truly never sleeps.

This trip will be tiring and jam-packed, with something new around every corner. You’ll go to bed exhausted — and happy — every night. Even with this full itinerary, there’s still so much you won’t see, so let’s make the most of every moment! Bring your walking shoes, a refillable water bottle, and, of course, a camera to capture all the memories you’ll be making.

Day 1 – Arrival in the Big Apple

Welcome to New York! After landing, grab a MetroCard — your golden ticket for unlimited subway and bus rides. The subway is fast, reliable, and the most authentic way to move around.

Tip: Download Citymapper — it makes navigating the subway effortless.

Settle into your hotel, then stretch your legs with an evening walk through your neighborhood. For your first meal, head to Ess-a-Bagel, one of the city’s most iconic bagel shops. Their massive, chewy bagels piled high with cream cheese or lox are worth every bite — but go early! The line can stretch down the street and around the block.

If bagels aren’t your first pick, grab a quick New York pizza slice from a corner shop and eat it folded in half like a true New Yorker. If you’re near Times Square, stand beneath the lights for your first “wow” moment — the heartbeat of the city glows brightest at night.

Day 2 – Sky-High Views, Midtown Marvels & Floating Museums

Start your morning at the Empire State Building. Arrive early to beat the crowds and soak in sweeping views from the 86th-floor observatory — on a clear day, you can even spot the Statue of Liberty.

Next, wander over to Rockefeller Center to snap photos of the skating rink and the Atlas Statue, or head up to Top of the Rock for a skyline view that frames the Empire State itself.

Then walk to Grand Central Station, one of the city’s most stunning landmarks. Its celestial ceiling mural, marble staircases, and constant rush of travelers make it a living piece of New York history. Stand on the balcony staircase and take a moment to watch the flow of people below — it’s a scene straight out of a movie.

Hop aboard a hop-on, hop-off bus tour for an easy overview of the city’s neighborhoods. In the afternoon, explore the High Line Park, an elevated greenway filled with art, gardens, and Hudson River views.

Finish your day at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, where you can walk through an aircraft carrier, peek inside the Concorde, and stand under the Space Shuttle Enterprise.

Tip: The Empire State Building, Top of the Rock, and Intrepid Museum are all part of the New York CityPASS — a great time-saver.

Day 3 – Lady Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge & One World Wonder

Start early with a ferry to Liberty Island to meet the Statue of Liberty up close. Climb to the pedestal for stunning skyline views, then stop at Ellis Island to walk through the Immigration Museum, where millions of newcomers first arrived in America.

After lunch, take a Harbor Cruise around Manhattan to see the skyline and bridges from the water.

Later, stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge — one of the most photographed spots in the city — and grab a coffee or ice cream at Brooklyn Bridge Park while admiring the view.

In the late afternoon, visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum at Ground Zero, a deeply moving tribute to the lives lost and the resilience of the city. Walk around the twin reflecting pools, see the names engraved in bronze, and take a quiet moment to reflect. The museum itself offers powerful exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of that day and its aftermath.

End your day at the One World Observatory, just steps away, for breathtaking sunset views from the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere — a beautiful reminder of how the city continues to rise.

Tip: The Statue of Liberty, 9/11 Museum, and One World Observatory are all close together in Lower Manhattan — wear comfortable shoes and plan for a full, meaningful day.

Day 4 – Culture, Lights & Broadway Nights

Ease into the day at the grand New York Public Library, a marble masterpiece where you can peek into the Rose Main Reading Room and admire the quiet beauty inside.

Then have some fun at Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, posing with your favorite celebrities. Spend the afternoon in Times Square, where giant screens and street performers keep the energy high.

When evening comes, it’s showtime! Catch a Broadway show — same-day discounted tickets are often available at the TKTS booth in Times Square.

After the curtain falls, stop for dessert at Levain Bakery or a slice of cheesecake from Junior’s nearby.

Day 5 – Central Park & Natural Wonders

After several days of fast-paced sightseeing, today is your chance to slow down and enjoy some fresh air in the heart of Manhattan — Central Park, one of the most famous urban parks in the world.

Start your morning by renting a bike at the Columbus Circle entrance or near Strawberry Fields. Pedal your way through winding paths, past towering trees and sparkling ponds. The full loop around the park is about 10 kilometers (6 miles), offering a perfect mix of gentle hills, shady stretches, and postcard-worthy views.

Make time to stop often — that’s part of the magic here. Pull over at Bow Bridge for one of the most romantic spots in the park, then continue toward Bethesda Terrace, where you can listen to street musicians performing jazz, violin, or acoustic covers under the echoing archways.

At the Bethesda Fountain, take a few photos — it’s not the actual “Friends” fountain, but it’s close enough in spirit that fans always recreate the moment with a splash of nostalgia.

Find a shady spot on the Great Lawn or near The Lake for a picnic or just some people-watching. You might see joggers, artists sketching, couples rowing boats, and families enjoying the sunshine — it’s the perfect window into New York life.

When you’re ready, head across the street to the American Museum of Natural History, home to enormous dinosaur skeletons, glittering gemstones, and the awe-inspiring blue whale exhibit suspended from the ceiling. Spend a few hours wandering the exhibits — it’s as fascinating for adults as it is for kids.

Tip: Bring a water bottle and take breaks throughout your ride — Central Park is much larger than most visitors expect! With the CityPASS, you can skip lines at the museum, leaving more time to relax in the park afterward.

Day 6 – Shops, Sweet Treats & Skyline Views

It’s your final full day — time to indulge, shop, and soak in the city’s style.

Start at the Harry Potter Store near Flatiron for a bit of magic (and Butterbeer), then stroll up Fifth Avenue for high-end boutiques like Tiffany & Co., Apple, and Saks.

If you’re craving art, stop at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) to see Van Gogh’s Starry Night and Monet’s Water Lilies — entry’s included with your CityPASS.

For lunch, explore Chelsea Market, a bustling indoor food hall packed with bakeries, taco stands, and artisan shops. Afterward, wander to Hudson Yards to see The Vessel, a futuristic landmark that gleams beside the Hudson River — perfect for photos.

Treat yourself afterward to banana pudding from Magnolia Bakery or Cereal Milk soft serve from Milk Bar, two dessert icons.

As the sun sets, toast your final night at a rooftop lounge like Edge at Hudson Yards or 230 Fifth, where you can watch the skyline sparkle. Round out the evening with one last walk through Times Square — bright, busy, and utterly unforgettable.

Day 7 – Farewell to the City That Never Sleeps

Enjoy one last bagel breakfast — maybe even a return visit to Ess-a-Bagel if you’re up early enough to beat the line — before packing up.

If time allows, take a peaceful stroll through Bryant Park or stop for last-minute souvenirs. Then it’s time to head to the airport — the AirTrain + subway combo is the most affordable route, or book a shuttle for convenience.

As the plane climbs and the skyline fades into the clouds, you’ll already be dreaming of your next New York adventure — because once you’ve been here, the city stays with you.