3 Days in NYC: How to Spend a Weekend in New York City

New York City is truly amazing. The food, energy, arts and culture scene – all of it. We`re very much city people, and New York satisfies all the aspects we love about cities. There`s so much to do and see in NYC that we`re fairly certain one could spend close to a decade trying to experience it all, and still have things left unchecked on the list.

However, you don’t possess a decade, do you? You’ve only got something like a weekend in New York City, so you’re going to have to be strategic if you want to see the best that the city has to offer in a few days.

Which is where we come in.

We lack a permanent residence in New York City, but we have spent a complete week in the city on two different occasions over the previous few years, providing us a relatively comprehensive perspective on exploring the city as visitors. We have experienced most of the primary attractions, and hold some (sometimes firm) viewpoints on what is worthwhile – and arguably more significantly, what is not – that we think will be practical as you scheme your New York City itinerary.

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In this (admittedly very long) guide to spending a weekend in NYC, we’re going to take you through exactly how we’d spend 3 days in New York City.

Our NYC itinerary proposal is based significantly on our personal experiences exploring the city. We`ve curated a plan we think others would appreciate following as well. Included are some popular attractions like museums and Broadway, along with plenty of walking between destinations and eating at local eateries. Unexpected places we encountered casually, such as the esteemed New York Public Library, are also worth allocating time towards in our opinion.

Along the way, we’ll also help you answer some less thrilling – but equally important – inquiries like where you should reside, what airport to fly into, and how to get around.

Sound good? Grab a cup of coffee (or tequila) and prepare yourself – this one’s a long one – as we delve deep into how to plan an amazing 3 day NYC itinerary.

Note: Planning a trip to NYC? We’ve got some other hugely detailed travel guides you might find beneficial. Read our guide to where to lodge in NYC for a thorough breakdown of the best areas to stay for your visit to assist you choose the perfect one. And our guide to the best gluten free eateries and bakeries in NYC if you’re a gluten free foodie, like us.

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

a park filled with lots of flowers on a sunny day

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Is 3 Days in New York City Enough?

Could three days in any significant city be adequate to experience everything? No, undoubtedly not. Specifically in a locale as substantial, diverse, and fascinating as New York City.

But there is a but. 

We understand your time is limited while vacationing, and a weekend is being used to maximize your experience. Though New York City could occupy a week, month or year, realistically that amount of time likely isn`t available.

Allocating 3 days in New York City allows you a decent amount of time to explore Manhattan, and spend half a day or so over in Brooklyn. You won’t be able to visit every museum and eat every delicious meal that the city offers, but you can get a taste of it, with plenty to see next time.

If you want to add a day trip over to Governors Island, spend more time in Brooklyn, or see some of the other museums or Broadway shows, add another day for each of those things.

If you’ve only got two days, plan on spending both days in Manhattan (which means not going over to Brooklyn), one day in Midtown / Central Park, and one day in Lower Manhattan.”

The primary New York City itinerary below is composed for 3 days, but in a segment below we have guides on how to spend one, two, and more than three days in New York to assist you in organizing your trip if you have more or less time in the city.

Where to Stay for a Long Weekend in New York City

New York City is enormous, so where you choose to stay is going to have a huge impact on what your weekend is like.

To avoid investing your entire trip in transit, we’d strongly suggest you to stay in Manhattan. Some people like the idea of staying in Brooklyn somewhere, but it’s really inconvenient if you’re going to be committing most of your time doing the main tourist attractions in New York City. Which is what this itinerary is written for.

If it’s your second or third trip and you’re less interested in things like Central Park, the museums, and Broadway, and you’re more interested in eating and drinking your way through Brooklyn, that’s when you should consider staying in Brooklyn.

Now, where would be most suitable for you to reside in Manhattan? We have three alternatives for your consideration, and we`ve personally inhabited all of them, furnishing us a distinctive capacity to appraise the benefits and drawbacks of each.

If you desire additional details, you certainly should examine our extensive comprehensive guide to where to lodge in New York City, which provides an in-depth exploration of each of these three neighborhoods with benefits and drawbacks, neighborhood highlights, and some cool places to stay.

Here’s the short version. 

  • Our comprehensive assessment depending on our direct experience is the Flatiron District / NoMad. It’s on the southern conclusion of Midtown Manhattan, which denotes you’re correct in the focal point of all the motion. But it’s far adequate enough withdrawn from the hecticness about Times Square that you’ll have a minuscule more quietness (if such a item is actually attainable in NYC). Greenwich Village, the East Village, Chelsea, and Midtown are all within jogging separation, and everything else is a concise Subway excursion away. We’ve remained at (and appreciated) the Ace Hotel and the Freehand. While nothing is particularly inexpensive in NYC, the Freehand is one of the better prices in the city.
  • The best position to reside for beginners who want to be as central as possible is going to be Midtown Manhattan. This location is simply northern of NoMad (the region we advised above) and is walkable to Times Square, Rockefeller Center, Broadway, and Central Park. It’s more crowded and packed with people at all hours, but it’s difficult to defeat the ease. We ADORE CitizenM Hotels, who have a Times Square locale. We’ve lodged in three of their hotels – Boston, Seattle, and London – over the past four months at the time of composing, and every solitary time we walk away impressed with the modern, streamlined experience from check-in (where you get to choose your accommodation, fundamentally) to check out. Matt additionally stayed at the Arlo Midtown on his last (solo) travel to NYC, and it’s a trendy choice in a great area with a cool rooftop bar.
  • The last choice we’d recommend is Chelsea or Greenwich Village, which are adjacent communities in southwestern Manhattan. While not as central as the two choices above, Greenwich Village specifically (and Chelsea, to a more reduced degree) is the area to be for food lovers. The whole region around Washington Square Park, the focal item to the area, is a charming place to expend an evening, and it’s saturated with the brownstones you see in series like Friends and Seinfeld. If you’re on a financial plan, scrutinize at the Leo House in the heart of Chelsea. If you’re not, lodge at the Moxy Chelsea or the Walker Hotel, the latter of which is a few blocks off of Washington Square Park.

Flying to New York City: Which Airport to Choose?

New York residents offered differing perspectives on this subject, with most saying the answer depends on individual circumstances.

There are three primary airports that serve New York City.

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

The main airport is John F Kennedy International (JFK), which is quite far east of the city center. It does have the best selection of flights, both domestic and international, but it’s quite a journey to get to.

Taking a rideshare from midtown to the airport on a prior excursion took 75 minutes, while the subway required close to 90 minutes for the same trip.

Here’s a guide to getting from JFK to Manhattan using public transit, which costs just $10.75 (AirTrain + Subway fare) and is decidedly the most affordable option.

For a slightly more relaxed trip, take the Long Island Rail Road from Penn Station to Jamaica Station and transfer to the Airtrain, which is $15.75 (off-peak) and closer to $20 for busier travel times.

For what it’s worth, I took the LIRR → AirTrain on my last trip, and it was seamless and easy to navigate.

LaGuardia Airport (LGA)

Closer in, just northeast of the city center in Queens, is LaGuardia Airport (LGA). There is a suitable selection of domestic flights departing from and arriving at LaGuardia, particularly on American and Delta airlines, but not as extensive as at JFK.

Additionally, the public transportation connections are a bit more challenging because you have to use both a bus (the Q70 is a pretty simple connection though) and the Subway (more on how to do that here), so a cab or rideshare is likely going to be your best option. Plan on $70 and 45-60 minutes to complete that journey.

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)

On the opposite facet of Manhattan in New Jersey is Newark Liberty Global Airport (EWR).

This airport acts as a hub for United flights, and as one person flying out of here to our destination quoted, `this place is a mess.` We advise choosing another airport if possible for travel, but if flying United (why choose that option?), you may end up here unfortunately.

There are a couple possibilities, though none are particularly simple – they all involve at least one transfer. A taxi or Lyft, while costly ($50-80 approximately), is the quickest way to get into Midtown. I just looked into it, and with morning traffic at 9:30am on a Monday, it`s only about 40 minutes.

So, Which Airport Should You Fly Into (if You Have a Choice)?

The question is, which should you opt for? Clearly, this totally relies on a variety of distinctive factors, but here`s our take according to personal experience and conversing with friends who live (or have lived) in NYC.

For visitors lodging in Manhattan (likely the case), LaGuardia or Newark airports make the most sense choices. While neither connect directly to the subway system, their proximity to Manhattan means shorter taxi/rideshare trips to hotels. However, public transportation is somewhat limited from both facilities.

If you’re staying in Brooklyn, OR you want to take public transportation to the airport, then you’ll want to choose JFK. JFK also has the best flight selection, especially for international routes, so if you’re coming from outside of the US, this is probably where you’ll land.

Or, if you’re like us, just choose the airport that gets you the most affordable (direct) flight and deal with how to get into the city later.

3 Days in NYC: A Complete Itinerary for a Long Weekend in New York City

Because there is SUCH AN ABUNDANCE TO SEE AND EXPERIENCE in New York City, just about everyone is going to have a different approach for how best to spend your time.

Our version incorporates a couple museums – but not spending all your time inside museums – and significantly exploring on foot. Walking is our favorite way to see a city, and NYC is flat and walkable. Aside from its vast size, which means you`ll need to use Subway or ferries at some points.

What won’t be found in the main part of this guide are specific food recommendations unless they`re an easy stop along the route. Instead, we’ve assembled a list of our top dining options in New York City in a separate section at the bottom of this post.

P.S.: Matt requires a diet completely free of gluten, as he has Celiac Disease, which means he needs to eat strictly gluten free (hence the name of our website). We have an extensive guide to the best gluten free restaurants in NYC if you face a similar dietary restriction but still want the top bagels, pastries, and tacos in the city!

Day 1: Times Square, Midtown Manhattan, and Central Park

On your first day in New York City, we’d spend your time becoming familiar with Midtown Manhattan, which in many ways is the pulsating heart of the city. At least for visitors, anyway.

Begin your outing in the lively Times Square area and make your way around the surrounding neighborhoods in a circular route, taking in some of the finest panoramas in NYC, exploring two of the premier parks of the city known for their natural beauty and open spaces, and seeing the most renowned church renowned for its architectural magnificence. Then, spend the afternoon immersed in the collections of one of the city’s most prized cultural institutions and embark on a self-guided walking excursion through Central Park before dinner and refreshments in Midtown.

Times Square

a city street filled with lots of tall buildings

Look, Times Square is quite a lot. We’ve been there early in the morning, late afternoon around sunset, and after nightfall when the bright lights truly shine.

If you’re looking for the complete experience – the street performers, the characters attempting to have you take a picture with them (hint: you have to pay them later!), and the massive crowds of people, then by all means come later in the day.

If you want to experience Times Square without the less desirable (in our opinion) elements, come early in the morning. There will still be people around – it arguably stands as the biggest tourist attraction in the country – but it is much less frantic and chaotic.

There is indeed very little else to communicate about Times Square. It is worth encountering once, but it is unlikely worth lingering. One thing we will mention is that virtually every restaurant in and around Times Square is not deserving of your time.

With one exception – Los Tacos No.1 – which also has a location in Chelsea Market. At both places, the queues are nearly always at minimum 20-30 minutes long. The wait is supposedly worthwhile, but they have both wheat and corn tortillas, which implies we don’t get to dine here (because Matt has Celiac Disease and a few crumbs of gluten is bad news barnacles for his body).

NY Public Library

people walking down a street in front of tall buildings

The iconic New York Public Library, situated at Bryant Park, was a notably excellent stop on our latest excursion to New York. The flagship building – the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building – contains quite the storied past, having commenced development over a century ago and opening to the public in 1911 after numerous years of construction.

There is no cost to enter, though currently you do need to make a timed visit booking to access the Polonsky Presentation (more on that in a moment). You can make them onsite – they have a couple of stations to register – but they may sell out at peak times and throughout the summer.

There are a couple activities and sights available here. The initial is the Polonsky Exhibition which collects artifacts spanning from a handwritten copy of the Constitution by Thomas Jefferson to the actual stuffed creatures that inspired Winnie the Pooh. There’s a truly intriguing free audio guide accessible online with your smartphone, so be sure to bring headphones to make the most of it!

a teddy bear sitting on top of a table
a large room with a large clock on the wall

The second activity proposed here involves a guided tour of the building led by docents. These tours are currently offered at 11:00 am and 2:00 pm from Monday through Saturday, though times may change so be sure to check the website, and last approximately one hour. Reservations can be made here, with tours limited to the initial 15 individuals who register.

Good hotel about a kilometer from T2 and accessible to all terminals via complimentary London public transportation services.

Bryant Park

people sitting at tables with umbrellas

Just outside the library is Bryant Park, an oasis of greenery in the dense urban center.

If you’ve got more time and it’s a pleasant day, they have a reading room, some board games – chess and Connect4, for example – to rent, ping pong, petanque, and more. It’s an exceedingly comfortable place to spend a couple of hours in the sunshine.

On a random Thursday while we were in town, a large crowd of people gathered near the fountain at the opposite end of the park from the library. A huge dance party was taking place! It was extremely fun, an experience that feels uniquely characteristic of “New York.” So much energy was present!

One of the more fascinating aspects of Bryant Park is their scheduled activities. From petanque competitions on summer Fridays, to operatic and dance performances, they maintain a recurring calendar showcasing various artistic and cultural exhibits throughout the warm-weather months. You can find the itinerary here – we believe it’s worthwhile to return later in the day if there’s an event that captures your interest.

A coffee note: If you’re seeking a little caffeine boost, head over to Culture Espresso, a few blocks south of Bryant Park at W 38th Street and 6th Avenue. When I was there last, they used Heart Coffee from Portland, which I was astonished to see so far from home!

Rockefeller Center & the Top of the Rock

a city with tall buildings and a sky background

Numerous individuals wish to reach the highest point of the Empire State Building, which is conceivable I figure, given its situation in the historical backdrop of visitor attractions in the United States. In any case, we`ve found that the highest point platform of the Empire State Building endures a comparative issue to other perspective stages atop significant visitor fascinations, like the Eiffel Tower in Paris or the Space Needle in Seattle.

The view is missing a iconic feature of the NYC skyline… the Empire State Building.

Instead, make your way over to the Top of the Rock Observation Deck, the viewing platform atop Rockefeller Center, for a breathtaking view of New York City, including the Empire State Building and Central Park. It’s pricey, but it offers the best city view for us.

Additional data, like pricing, hours of operation, and reservation options, can be found here.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral

people standing in front of a tall building

When compared to cities such as Paris or Rome, New York City is not generally known as prominently for its churches due to its historical roots as a more protestant city, meaning churches there tended to be less extravagant architecturally. It`s not altogether surprising that the leading Catholic church in the city is also the most impressive.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral is essentially right across the street from Rockefeller Center.

Constructed in the mid 19th Century, St. Patrick’s Cathedral is an impressive structure. The contrast between the Gothic Revival style and the modern structures surrounding it is quite something.

There’s a tour, but it’s $20 for a self-guided audio tour. You can decide whether you think that’s worth it, but I can tell you that we don’t think it is. We’d pay for a live guided tour, though.

Choose Your Own (Museum) Adventure

We`ve seen three of the major museums in NYC, and while all were excellent, we also don`t think spending your entire New York City itinerary indoors at a museum is worthwhile.

Additionally, unlike in London where entry to many museums is free, admission to these cultural institutions is not without cost.

Rather than trying to see everything at a museum, we`d choose one exhibit to experience in depth, allowing the better part of an afternoon to immerse ourselves. We`d dedicate two to four hours depending on how comprehensive our visit would be.

The three museums we’re talking about are the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Natural History Museum, and MOMA (the Museum of Modern Art).

Here’s our perspective on which museum you should choose. All three offer very divergent experiences, and it truly depends on what you’re looking to gain.

If you want to explore a diverse collection of works from numerous cultures amassed across many lands, consider the Met. Similarly, to the Louvre in Paris, the Met has a wide breadth of exhibits. Surprisingly, only a small portion can be found on display at any given time, as the remainder rests safely in storage. General admission for adults is $25, and we advise reserving tickets online beforehand to bypass waiting in line at the ticket counter. It`s closed on Wednesdays. More info about planning your trip may be found here.

people standing in front of a large building

If you want to see a more concentrated (sort of) collection of art from the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries, head toMOMA. Some of the highlights of this collection, which are worthy of note in our opinion, include Van Gogh`s Starry Night, Monet`sWater Lilies, and many colorful abstract works on the top floor. We definitely recommend starting with the fifth floor while you`re fresh, as this was our favorite area and is where you`ll find all three of those pieces, and then making your way down through the rest of the works. Tickets for adults are $25, and we`d advise purchasing them online in advance to avoid waiting in line at the museum ticketing desk. The museum is closed on Wednesdays. More info on planning your visit can be found here.

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If enjoying nature, magnificent animal skeletons (like a T-Rex!), or attending with children interest you more, then we’d opt for the American Museum of Natural History, which is situated across Central Park from the Met. They possess a bunch of cool permanent collections and a rotating group of special exhibits that require separate payment. The highlights of the permanent collections for us include the blue whale skeleton, an enormous T-rex, and Lucy, the most intact early hominid skeleton we’ve found. Tickets are $23 for adults, and you need to purchase them online beforehand. They’re open Wednesday to Sunday. More info on planning your visit here.

a large statue of a giraffe in a museum

Central Park 

Spend the rest of your afternoon exploring Central Park, which is the largest park in the nation.

📍 Google Maps directory | Phone: (303) 480-0220 | Organization website | Hours: 9:30 am – 6:30 pm daily

Still, Central Park is amazing considering the location right in the center of the most densely inhabited pieces of land worldwide. The fact that it’s not overrun by canine waste and trash (or, development) is a testament to the work that the Central Park Conservancy has invested over the centuries.

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Central Park is enormously extensive, and one may not view every section of its 800+ acres in a single afternoon.

With that viewpoint, we’d focus your time on the southern extremity of the park. Begin at “The Pond” in the southeastern corner, and make a circuit up to “The Lake” and Bow Bridge (pause at Belvedere Castle before looping back), before heading back past Bethesda Terrace and ambling along the Mall to Columbus Circle.

We know that’s extensive information – here’s a internet map route of that walk path. It’s roughly 2.5 miles in distance and will take about two hours total time, inclusive of any stops.

There’s an interesting audio guide with QR codes around the park where you can learn about its history as you walk.

Day 2: Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn

On the second day in New York City, starting with Lower Manhattan, which is the gateway to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, before hopping on the ferry over to Brooklyn for the afternoon and evening.

The Charging Bull, The New York Stock Exchange, and Coffee

a crowd of people walking down a street

Start your day by heading down to Lower Manhattan. For most people, unless you’re staying there, that means taking the Subway. If you’re coming from Midtown, you can ride the 1 to South Ferry or the 2 or 3 to Wall Street.

To start, coffee. Black Fox Coffee in Lower Manhattan was one of my favorite spots for coffee in the entire city, and it provided the perfect place to begin each day. They rotated through different roasters from all over the world (including Square Mile from London and Coffee Collective from Denmark when I was there), and had single origin coffee options, espresso beverages, and inventive specialty drinks such as a sesame chai that Alysha especially enjoyed.

Next, head west on Wall Street towards the New York Stock Exchange, which isn’t really particularly special, but is worth stopping by to see which company is conducting an initial public offering that day, with their banners draped over the front of the building and their public relations people taking thousands of photos around the area.

a sign that is on the side of a building

From there, continue along Wall Street until reaching Trinity Church. The renowned founding father Alexander Hamilton lies buried outside in the surrounding cemetery.

It’s an Episcopal church, which essentially denotes it’s an Anglican church – the church that the Royal Family in Great Britain began to, uh, “procure financial benefit” according to a historian we met in London – but in the United States (or various other places worldwide).

The Anglican denomination originated from Protestantism, but – and stop me if you’ve heard this one before – the British didn`t want to answer to people on the European mainland, so they decided to go their own way.

Why not just be an Anglican church, you ask? Well, because after the American Revolution, it wasn’t exactly popular in America to be required to pledge allegiance to the royal family. Which is what the Anglican church has to do because the royal family is viewed as holy.

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Anyway, during our visit we`re pretty sure you couldn`t actually go inside at the time, but it`s worth circling the southeast corner of the church where you can see the graveyard and resting place of Alexander Hamilton.

From there, it’s a short two blocks down to the final stop of this mini walking tour of Lower Manhattan, which is the bronze statue representing strong opposition.

If you don’t arrive early, you’ll likely need to wait in line to see it (there were lines starting at around 9:30 or 10:00 am when we were there). It’s a symbol of financial prosperity (a “bull market” is beneficial), and essentially represents Wall Street for sightseers.

In our opinion, the more intriguing sight here is the park located directly behind the sculpture, which is Bowling Green, the oldest public green space in NYC. The fencing enclosing the park is original from the 18th Century!

a large building with a clock on the front of it

If you’re interested, the building at the southern end of the park is noteworthy – the Alexander Hamilton U.S. Custom House – and it houses the National Museum of the American Indian, which can be visited free of charge and is worth taking a look inside for both an education on the history of American Indians, and the building itself.

Battery Park

two people walking down a sidewalk next to a park

From there, one can easily walk over to Battery Park, which is an enjoyable park located at the southern tip of Lower Manhattan.

To be honest, the primary function of Battery Park is to house multiple ferry terminals – you can get the Staten Island Ferry, the ferry out to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty (we’ll get there in the next section), and the ferry to Governors Island.

a park filled with lots of trees and buildings

However, there is a look at the Statue of Liberty from the really southern finish of the recreation center, however it’s a far off one.

If time permits, it`s worth returning here around dusk, when you can capture a nice shot of the Statue of Liberty in the distance with the orange-pink clouds overhead. It was a very pleasant way to conclude a day of exploring NYC.

The primary reason for being here is because, as mentioned above, it serves as the starting point for trips to both Ellis Island and Liberty Island.

Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty

a sailboat in the middle of a large body of water

Did you know there are two islands constituting the Statue of Liberty complex? Until recently, Ellis Island was believed to be where the Statue of Liberty stands. But that was incorrect – the statue is southwest on Liberty Island.

You learn something new everyday, I guess. 

Both islands symbolize the promise of achieving the American Dream. The well-known inscription on the Statue of Liberty states “Give me your tired, your poor, Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.” For countless immigrants – including many refugees – we welcomed them with open arms, offering the prospect of a better life full of opportunities.

Of course, after settling in, the real United States, which differs decidedly from the idealistic foundations it was built on, became apparent to them.

Interestingly, the history of Ellis Island actually shows that dichotomy – it became a holding center in the early 1900’s as nationalism and isolationism took hold in the country.

Following that unsettled period, numerous laws were passed to limit the number of migrants entering the country after decades of an open entrance policy with basically no documentation.

Then, shortly before closing permanently in 1954, it was utilized to detain immigrants who had affiliations with facist and communist regimes around the globe.

Given the current perspective in our political system, it appears some of our fellow citizens may have forgotten that America, at its core, has continually been a country built by immigration. There is no better reminder of this than Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.

Both of our families moved to the United States through Ellis Island (ironically, both of our families had people coming from Sicily – could we secretly be related?), following the same route as 12 million other Americans between 1892 and the 1950’s.

The islands are only accessible via ferry, and the ferries depart from Battery Park at the southern tip of Manhattan, making stops at both islands.

If touring the National Immigration Museum and the Family History Center (where visitors can search arrival records to potentially see their family`s name), then Ellis Island is desired. If wanting to check out the Statue of Liberty up close and personal (and visit the accompanying museum), Liberty Island is sought.

If choosing to explore both locations, it is possible but would require between two to four hours depending on the pace of movement. With limited time, focusing efforts on Liberty Island would be advised unless specifically traveling to research familial history through Ellis Island.

All admissions to the assorted museums and attractions are covered in the ferry ticket rate, so you don`t need to purchase individual tickets for each attraction.

There are self-guided audio guides available for all the major attractions.

The 9/11 Memorial

an aerial view of a city at night

The 9/11 Memorial, situated on the site of the original World Trade Center, is a museum and monument devoted to the victims of September 11th, 2001, an important date in American history.

I don’t know where you were on September 11th, but I distinctly recollect EXACTLY where I was.

I was raised in Washington State in the Seattle area, so we were three hours behind in terms of the time of day. So the assault on the World Trade Center interrupted my morning before school cartoon routine (Pokemon, for those of you wondering).

Then, I headed off to 6th grade, and we spent the entire day alternating between watching the news and talking about what had occurred. As a sixth grader, I didn’t really appreciate what was going on, but I’ve since realized that it was a pivotal moment in modern American history.

There are two components to this experience – the Museum and the Memorial. The memorial, which has two reflecting pools with black squares in the center, stands on the original site of the twin towers. The museum is a multimedia experience that tells the story of 9/11.

If visitors have a strong interest in learning more, I would suggest exploring their tours. That was how we might have opted to experience the museum (though as discussed below, we tried to obtain free admission without success, resulting in us skipping it this time).

Tickets have a relatively high price, but if you happen to be visiting on a Monday, then you can go in for free. You’ll need to get on at 7:00 am sharp on Monday morning, navigate to this page, and try to acquire some of the few complimentary tickets available that day. Unfortunately for us, we were unsuccessful, so we ultimately decided to skip exploring the museum.

Oculus Center

Directly across from the 9/11 Museum and Memorial is the expansive white Oculus Center, designed somewhat resembling two hands releasing a dove. I say `somewhat` because its immense size makes visualizing that imagery difficult without finding the right vantage point.

It was constructed following the September 11th attacks to serve as both a transportation hub and commercial center. Today, several Subway lines pass through it and it acts as the Lower Manhattan station for PATH (a high-speed rail network connecting New Jersey and New York City).

It’s worthwhile stepping inside the ground floor during mid-morning, when plenty of natural light streams through the windows lining the high ceilings. There are also a few high-end shops like Moleskine and an Apple Store present here.

Really, we’d visit just for the architecture. One tip we received after we had been here – try to come midday if possible. Since it’s a transportation hub, it’s extremely, very busy during commute hours (8:00-10:00am, 3:00-6:00pm, approximately).

Ferry to Brooklyn Bridge Park

a large white boat in the middle of a city

From there, direct your steps to the eastern end of Lower Manhattan`s Pier 11 ( as shown here on Google Maps), where you can access the East River Ferry to cross over to Brooklyn.

The ferry is, by far, the preferable way to get over to Brooklyn from Manhattan in our view. It’s more pleasant than the Subway, the views are better than the Subway, and you can sit outside on the deck on a nice day.

Additionally, it takes you directly to where you need to go to continue this itinerary!

Essentially, the ferry costs $2.75 per ride ($1.00 more if bringing a bicycle), tickets are purchased in advance before boarding either through the app or at the ticketing machines onsite, and it departs quickly once on the water.

Walk a Loop through Brooklyn Bridge Park and Brooklyn Heights

a large body of water with tall buildings

From the ferry terminal, you’re going to make two loops.

One will take you south along the waterfront, then up the hill and back through Brooklyn Heights, where you’ll have some excellent views of Manhattan first from the water level, and then from up a few levels higher.

The other will transport you from the ferry terminal eastward, pausing at the famed DUMBO photographic location of the Manhattan Bridge before traversing DUMBO`s heart.

First, travel south along the waterfront to Pier 6. This walk took us along the East River waterfront, which is essentially just astounding views of Manhattan from start to finish. In particular we enjoyed the views at the beginning of the walk, especially from Old Pier 1.

a large body of water filled with lots of birdsa row of benches on a city street

This part of the walk usefully outlines how the city has transformed prior industrial areas into green spaces along the waterfront. There’s another good illustration of this tomorrow, where you’ll stop at Little Island on the other side of Manhattan.

From there, head up into Brooklyn along Atlantic Avenue, hang a left on Clinton Street, and another left on Montague Street, which takes you down to Brooklyn Heights Promenade, which you can follow back to the DUMBO Ferry (the start of your next walk).

Here’s a route map. In total, taking into account potential stops, the journey will take approximately one hour and covers a distance of 2.7 miles

DUMBO Walk #2 (Jane’s Carousel and the Insta-Famous Photo)

a bridge over a body of water with a train on it

The other side of this figure eight loop is less about the Manhattan views, though it still certainly has some of those, but more about the food and beverages (sometimes with a view).

Begin heading east along the waterfront, where you will quickly come upon Jane’s Carousel and continue all the way to John Street Park (stop by Pebble Beach right after the carousel for good views of Manhattan).

Then, looping back through Dumbo, stopping at the spot where you can get that well-known photo of the Manhattan Bridge with brick buildings on either side and a picturesque cobblestone street in the foreground.

  • Wheeling Eateries– This yearly occasion relating to mobile cuisine happens over a prolonged weekend approximately Ascension Day (the 40th day of Easter). Dozens of rolling kitchens and food wagons head to this culinary pageant in the west of Amsterdam, where nearly every type of fare is shown.
a street filled with lots of traffic next to tall buildings

On my initial European excursion, I quite enjoyed (to the level of addiction) coffee but had not developed the same keen interest in specialty varieties as today. For example, I prepared coffee at home using either an antiquated automatic drip apparatus or a Keurig, satisfactory since in 2012, specialty coffee establishments in most of the continent were essentially nonexistent. The coffee found in Paris and Florence was dark, bitter, and all nuanced flavors were roasted away.

This hyperlink provides an estimated route for the walk beginning at the ferry terminal and looping throughout the main area of DUMBO: rel=”noopener” target=”_blank”>

Time Out Market 

a restaurant with a bar and a large clock on the wall

End your stroll in DUMBO at the Time Out Market, which is a multi-level nourishment hall with a rooftop bar and an endless assortment of places to eat and drink. The initial rendition of Time Out Market that we encountered was in Lisbon, and this one is even more impressive, with more vendors and a cool rooftop bar.

P.S.: If you’re puzzled why an online travel media company has a food hall, you’re not alone. We had a similar confused thought before our trip to Portugal when we were reading about the Time Out Market in Lisbon. You can read about how it came to be here.

If you visit in the morning (or early afternoon), take a moment to stop by Ess-A-Bagel, which friends with a specialized interest in baked goods recommended we try, though unfortunately it does not cater to a gluten-free diet, making it only suitable for Alysha.

If you`re up for a drink with a view, head up to the fifth floor to their rooftop-like bar. Love Local Beers offers a variety of local beers that you can enjoy out on the terrace or take home.

Dinner and Drinks in Brooklyn

If you’re up for staying in Brooklyn for a bit more time, there’s some good food and drinks to be had over on this side of the river.

One of our favorite dining establishments in NYC – Claro – is located in Brooklyn. Their menu highlights recipes from Oaxaca, where the head chef spent time, and their outdoor area provides an excellent setting for drinks and cuisine.

It’s expensive, and it’s a multi-course tasting menu. Make a reservation early, and order the berry aguachile and the chocolate mole dessert for great flavors.

a restaurant with tables, chairs, and umbrellas

a plate that has some food on it
a man sitting at a table with a plate of food

Tickets to Quinta da Regaleira cost €10/€5 (adult/youth and senior). You are able to reserve online ahead of time to save when you arrive. The estate is open daily for self-guided trips from 9:30 am to 6:30 pm, with the final entry at 5:30pm.

a bowl filled with vegetables on top of a table
a plate of food on a table

For a beverage, head to Cardiff Giant, which features a spacious outdoor courtyard filled with greenery and an exclusive selection of beers, wines, and hard ciders sourced from producers throughout New York State, as explained by the knowledgeable bartender.

If relaxing evenings with drinks and arcade games appeal to you, Glorietta Baldy could be an entertaining choice.

Day 3: Chelsea, Greenwich Village, and a Show

On your third day exploring Manhattan, traverse the western side starting with a stroll along the elevated High Line through Chelsea south into Greenwich Village before ending back in Midtown to catch a play, a quintessential New York experience for any visitor yet to see a Broadway or off-Broadway production.

The High Line

a man sitting on a bench next to a river

Inaugurate your last day in New York City with a stroll along the High Line, a former railway that has been reconfigured into a pleasant elevated greensward going from the southern limits of Hell’s Kitchen to the southern limits of Chelsea.

As urban areas become more densely populated, we will need to devise more methods of incorporating green spaces into the never-ending concrete jungle. The High Line is a creative example of thinking outside the box and transforming an unused area – in this scenario, a railroad – into a public green space.

It only covers around a mile, from the northern entrance at an address on the west side down to an address on the south side (just south of another address). We’d suggest exploring the entire route, starting here.

Don’t miss Vessel, a cool industrial structure that involves more than 150 interconnected staircases with some cool city views. It’s right near the entrance to the High Line ( here on Google Maps).

a large group of people standing in front of a building

Along the way, you’ll see some unique architectural styles, the coolest vehicle storage facility in existence (the autos are stacked vertically), and plenty of flowers and greenery that feels misplaced in industrial Chelsea.

Every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday, free guided tours of the High Line take place, covering the history of the park from its beginnings as a railroad up through its transformations over recent decades.

Excursions commence at the Gansevoort Street access ( here on Google Maps), and persist around 90 minutes. The timing of excursions fluctuates by season and you can view the times here.

I wish we had realized that these tours were accessible before Wednesday afternoon, because this is something we definitely would have been interested in.

two people walking down a street next to tall buildings

The High Line has become so favored that in summer – through the end of September – reservations are actually necessary for peak times (12:00 pm – 6:00 pm) on weekends and public holidays (Memorial Day, July 4th Weekend, Labor Day). Additional data regarding making reservations here.

Little Island

Mentioning repurposed industrial spaces, Little Island is another great example of a previously rundown industrial area in the city that has been transformed into an accessible green space.

In this case, it’s Pier 54 on the Hudson River which is now a multi-level outdoor area. It’s one of the newest public parks in NYC, opening in March of 2021.

Really, the entire section of the Hudson River is full of pleasant green spaces, which is another interesting way to create a brief break from the concrete urban area that is Midtown Manhattan.

Again, during peak hours a timed entry reservation will be necessary to access Little Island. The applicable dates are May 12 through September 19th, and a reservation will be required from 12:00 pm until closing on Thursdays through Sundays (and holidays).

They offer complimentary events almost daily in the summer, in addition to larger ticketed events. Seeing a performance or show in the little amphitheater on the river would be a fun evening out!

If you’re interested in the history and construction, there’s a 40 minute audio tour that’s completely free!

After exiting the High Line at its southern end, travelers will head toward the river and walk a short distance north to arrive there. When finished, crossing back over the road towards Midtown will place visitors near Chelsea Market, the next destination.

Chelsea Market

a city street filled with lots of traffic

Chelsea Market is a collection of mainly culinary stalls, with some shopping (even a weekend flea market – Thursday to Monday: 11:00am – 7:00pm) mixed in. It’s a great place to stop for an early lunch / late breakfast before continuing south to Greenwich Village.

Some of the notable dining options here include Friedman’s, a brunch-focused restaurant with many gluten-free selections (such as fried chicken and waffles) that are indistinguishable from traditional items, Los Tacos no. 1 (mentioned earlier as being located in Times Square) offering authentic tacos and often lengthy waiting times, Doughnuttery for creatively flavored donut holes (reminiscent of Pip’s in Portland, Oregon), and various other options.

This makes for a suitable restroom stop if the need has built up for some time.

Just east of Chelsea Market is one of our favored coffee locales in NYC, Terremoto, which is a small shop serving some of the best coffee in the city.

I love places where you can choose what beans you want to try, either for filter coffee or espresso, and this place checks that box with a few different coffees available at any given time.

Greenwich Village & Washington Square Park

a fountain that is in the middle of a city

From Chelsea Market (or Terremoto Coffee), head onto Greenwich Avenue going south towards Greenwich Village and Washington Square Park.

Moving gradually and at times abruptly, the architecture begins to vary from outdated industrial structures now housing art galleries to historic townhouses frequently depicted in television shows or movies set in NYC.

a row of windows on the side of a building

Greenwich Avenue itself is lined with bars, restaurants, and shops. It’s the kind of commercial strip in a residential area (as residential as it could potentially be in the heart of NYC, anyway) that we really enjoy.

Of the three main islands in the Puget Sound that make for an excellent day trip from SeattleBainbridge, Whidbey, and Vashon – Vashon is our preferred choice.

Make your way to Washington Square Park, which serves as the centerpiece of the neighborhood. On the opposing side of the park, you’ll find the main NYU campus, which lends this area a distinctly youthful atmosphere, and means it’s filled with excellent bars and restaurants. It’s worth returning here in the evening for dinner and drinks if you’re not seeing a show later on.

If you’re looking for lunch, we LOVED Nami Nori, a sushi joint serving handrolls, which are individual portions instead of rolls cut into 6-8 pieces.

a cut in half sandwich sitting on top of a white plate
a bowl filled with lots of different types of food

The original site of Magnolia Bakery is also located on Bleecker Street in New York City, and while it doesn`t offer gluten-free options (far from it), I brought back a collection of cupcakes for Alysha on my inaugural trip to NYC (along with some bagels from nearby Bagels on the Square).

Catch a Show

a white truck driving down a street next to tall buildings

Experience the diverse and impressive theater scene that is only available in a few select cities around the world, including New York and London.

In order to see one of the most famous productions worldwide, such as Hamilton or Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, advance planning is essential. Tickets must be purchased far in advance, and you must be willing to pay the price.

However, if you seek activities requiring a smaller monetary commitment, there exist some relatively low-cost methods to engage with it. Broadway for Broke People proves a valuable source for strategizing how to obtain tickets at reduced fares.

The best way for most individuals to get affordable tickets if you don’t have time to apply for lotteries and run around to box offices is to head to the TKTS booth in Times Square, where you can get tickets for most of the major performances happening in NYC at somewhere between 20% and 50% off.

See a complete listing of their options here, but you should know that not every show has availability for every day. Arrive early for the best selection, and right before show time for the best prices.

Broadway Roulette is another fun option, but attendees won`t be able to select a specific show – instead, a list of shows is provided (with a few potential exclusions) and one is randomly selected upon payment of $49-$59 for tickets. No returns or refunds apply, so this option is only suitable if the particular show is unimportant.

For what it is worth we have witnessed the following shows (not in NYC) and advocate for them for various reasons:

  • The Lion King: We`ve seen this stage production multiple times together, and it always provides great entertainment. The costumes, songs, and story are exceptional, and there is understandable reason for it running continuously for decades. We would gladly see it again if that expresses any endorsement for your interests.
  • Harry Potter and the Cursed Child: Unorthodox view – the narrative leaves much to be desired for devote fans of the original Harry Potter series (Matt has re-read the books over ten times by now). However, the technical wizardry and magic implemented is amazingly impressive and had us frequently wondering “how on earth did they do that?” throughout much of the show. It`s also quite lengthy so it really provides a full day`s entertainment (or can be split over two evenings) and may not be the most practical choice if you only have three days in NYC.
  • The Book of Mormon: Uproariously amusing and risqué, this likely isn`t the most suitable show for families with children. Or individuals easily offended by jokes pertaining to Mormonism, colonialism, faith generally, as well as an extensive range of other topics. It`s a musical from the creators of South Park, so if you dislike the sometimes too realistic humor from that program, then we`d advise skipping this.
  • Hamilton: We fortunately won the $10 ticket lottery to view Hamilton in San Francisco (Alysha wants me to emphasize that SHE secured the winning tickets, while I merely accompanied her), and it`s a truly magnificent spectacle. Sitting in the second row owing to the lottery meant experiencing the energy (and saliva) emanating from the stage up close and personal. The writing and performances are extraordinary, and we`d strongly recommend it if tickets can be procured.

What to Do with Less Time in New York City

Have less than a long weekend in NYC? Here’s how we’d spend one or two days in New York City.

One Day in New York City

On the off chance that you’ve just got one day in New York City, you’re going to need to pick and pick what you truly need to center around.

To us, the main highlights will be Midtown Manhattan,Central Park, and Battery Park / Ellis Island / the Statue of Liberty.

If interest lies in art and attendance is desired at one of NYC’s world-renowned museums, likely sacrificing a trip to see the Statue of Liberty will be necessary to fit in one of the museums – the Met (Metropolitan Museum of Art) or MOMA (the Museum of Modern Art) – each requiring a minimum of two or three hours. Furthermore, a difficult choice must be made between these two, as both cannot be experienced.

Therefore, assuming no museums, begin your day in the lower section of Manhattan at Black Fox Coffee, and follow that portion of the itinerary above to Wall Street, the New York Stock Exchange, Trinity Church, and the Charging Bull Sculpture.

Continue on to Battery Park, and take the ferry out to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. Pick one of the islands to explore – Ellis Island is the immigration museum where you can check the records for family names, Liberty Island is the Statue of Liberty.

Returning to the mainland, take the subway to the bustling borough of Midtown Manhattan. Follow the first day`s itinerary as outlined previously, excluding the museum stop. You will need to move at a brisk pace, and by the end you will feel fatigued, but it will be worth it if your time is limited to only one day!

2 Days in New York City

With 2 days, you’ve got a little more time, and you’ll probably be able to see most of the highlights.

Adjust plans for Brooklyn (unfortunately) and dedicate one day exploring Midtown, with the other day spent in Lower Manhattan and Chelsea / Greenwich Village.

That means you’d follow day 1 of the NYC itinerary above as written, and then combine the morning activities of day 2 (Lower Manhattan) and the morning activities of day 3 (the High Line, Chelsea, and Greenwich Village).

If you want to fit in a performance, it probably makes the most sense on the evening of day 1.

Eating and Drinking in New York City

Rather than attempt to squeeze our favorite eateries into the previously delineated itinerary, we opted to provide a separate segment highlighting them here (though when suitable, you`ll also find them integrated into the primary schedule).

Here are some of our favorite restaurants, bakeries, bars, and other spots in NYC, in no particular order.

Restaurants / Food Spots in New York That We Love

Cosme: I really enjoy Cosme, the Manhattan outpost of chef Enrique Olvera (of Pujol renown). I’ve dined there twice, and both experiences were excellent. It has a Michelin star, and the service, atmosphere, and cuisine are impeccable. Be sure to order the pork carnitas, which could feed an army, and DO NOT MISS the corn husk meringue, which may have been our best meal of the entire trip.

Beecher`s Cheese: It is worth noting that, a company located in Seattle ( Filson) also has a local outlet nearby – we seem to be taking over the area! I am quite fond of Beecher`s Flagship cheese, as my mother often has a portion waiting for me whenever I visit her home – they also offer a tasty mac n cheese here (though I cannot partake, due to gluten). Bedford Cheese Shop is another decent location close by, if you wish to browse a broader assortment of cheese varieties.

Los Tacos No. 1: As mentioned previously, we didn’t truly eat here because they serve gluten in multiple forms. But it was recommended by a couple New York friends we know who didn’t think of that part. They also have a location in Chelsea Market, but if you’re in Times Square and hungry, don’t be afraid to brave the quickly moving line for their tacos.

The area featured several reputable stores, excellent coffee selections ( Monmouth, specifically), and we relished Neal’s Yard Dairy, where we opted for a couple English cheeses to savor later with some outstanding fig jam.

Claro: We have visited this place twice before and really enjoyed the experience. The back garden area is where you should make a reservation if you plan on coming in the summertime. They now only offer a tasting menu format, and some of the most interesting menu items we tried were the strawberry aguachile (it`s spicy!), although everything we ate was fantastic. Additionally, the entire menu is gluten free!

For All Things Good: While we greatly enjoyed Claro and Cosme, two Michelin-starred Mexican dining establishments in New York City, this venture possibly showcased our preferred Mexican cuisine of the expedition. They utilize exceptionally fresh masa, and the initial aspect we perceived is HOW MUCH BETTER tortillas, memelas, and tlayudas are when the masa is freshly prepared. They had just initiated their evening meal service when we were present, and we opted to stop by for breakfast. One must not overlook the tlayudas (in essence, a pizza with a masa foundation, beans, cheese, and additional toppings) and tetelas (triangular-molded filled masa).

Modern Bread and Bagel: This establishment is for gluten free individuals. If you`re gluten free, really consider when you last had an excellent gluten free bagel. For many, the answer is “never,” and Modern Bread and Bagel is the remedy for bagels that are merely bread with a hole in the middle. The quality is so high, we went THREE times in one week. Seriously. It`s quite good. And their Jewish-inspired pastries like rugelach are also rather spectacular too. It`s a must visit for gluten free folks in NYC.

Coffee Shops in New York That We Loved

Nami Nori: We really enjoyed this sushi spot in Greenwich Village that offered temaki, which are essentially single-serve handrolls that are somewhat like tacos. Definitely get the furikake fries with tonkatsu ketchup, and the green curry shrimp roll, which was BY FAR our preferred selection. Sit at the bar for the best experience, where you get to watch them crafting your rolls individually.

a man standing in a kitchen next to a counter

La Cabra: Primarily, this importer from Denmark serves some spectacular coffees. I first discovered La Cabra at i/o Cafe, one of my favorite coffee shops in Paris, and I’ve never actually seen them outside of Europe. But they have a flagship in NYC! Great coffee, including special and interesting pour over options and perfectly pulled espresso. Secondly, they make all of their pastries in-house – which you can see happening through the big windows behind the pastry case. It’s cool to see them take the same intentional approach that they take to coffee and apply it to pastries. Even the ceramics are gorgeous!

a coffee cup sitting on top of a wooden table

Terremoto Coffee: This spot allows you to select the coffee beans used for your drink. They serve Unity Coffee, with a few beans open for filter coffee and espresso, in addition to some unique beans not found elsewhere (for a small supplemental charge). It`s a tiny location one block from Chelsea Market, presenting a good stop for coffee fans in the neighborhood.

Cool Bars in NYC

a bottle of beer sitting on top of a counter

Former cocktail bar in Midtown Manhattan: A enjoyable place serving mixed beverages in Midtown that was the primary place we ever visited in the city. We additionally found Stormalong Cider here, which has become one among our favorite hard cider brands.

Cardiff Giant: If an establishment that exclusively serves beverages like beer, wine, and cider locally made in New York seems like an enjoyable time, then this is the place. Additionally, the back garden is a superb location to spend a sunny afternoon postponing everything that needs accomplishing.

Arts and Crafts Beer Parlor: We came across this place on our initial trip to NYC, and spent a fair amount of time on our last visit trying to recollect the name and finding it on Google Maps. Found it! Great selection of beer and cider (including gluten free beer from Glutenberg) in a cozy below-ground bar (with now outdoor seating too).

Beer Culture: This bar and restaurant, only five blocks from a major attraction, is different from others in the area. It has an impressive variety of craft beers and ciders available both on tap and in cans or bottles. You can see their current selections here.

Getting Around New York City

Like cities such as London and Paris, while New York City is technically walkable since flat, it is the kind where you examine a map, think “oh that`s entirely walkable” only to realize it is a 72 minute trek on foot.

We’re all for walking, and think it’s the best way to see a city, but sometimes it’s simply not practical. Chances are, you’re going to need to use the Subway or other forms of transportation to get around while you’re in town, especially if you only have a limited amount of time.

Generally, if your trip is less than a mile, walking is recommended. It will take less time (and money) than traveling to the nearest Subway station and waiting for a train. If your journey is over a mile, take the Subway.

And, to speak honestly, we’d highly recommend the Subway. Generally, it’s swift, dependable, and simple to use (with a few provisos). We know New Yorkers love to complain about it, and that there have been a few tragic incidents recently that have gotten an disproportionately large amount of news coverage, but it’s usually safe, efficient, and straightforward to use.

Our number one tip would be to utilize the ferry transportation system as frequently as reasonably possible.

It’s easily among the best means to travel certain parts of the city – particularly from Manhattan to Brooklyn – and it’s faster and more scenic than the Subway. The ferry was a great suggestion from our friend Erin over at Gluten Free Globetrotter, a NYC local resident.

There are river cruises that you could pay $50 for… or you could simply board the ferry for $2.75 per person and ride it from the southern end of Manhattan at Wall Street up to the northern limit.

Riding the Subway in NYC

a train station with graffiti on the wall

Many New Yorkers tend to complain about the subway system, but ultimately the subway network in New York City demonstrates one of the better public transportation models in the entire United States.

To be sure, it can become crowded, train service sometimes experiences disruptions, and occasionally signs are visible of the ongoing issues with homelessness, mental health, and addiction impacting NYC (and every other city).

But upon full consideration, it’s the most convenient and effective way to get around NYC.

Traveling via subway in NYC has become significantly easier over the past few years with the debut of OMNY, a new contactless payment system. Before, you needed to obtain a MetroCard (which we did on our latest trip because we didn’t realize the advantages of OMNY) at one of the machines at a subway station, which have long queues and aren’t particularly straightforward to navigate.

The MetroCards are notoriously difficult for visitors to slide correctly (New Yorkers will hate you as you slide it seventeen times at different speeds and angles), and as we learned on our last trip, if you bend them even a little, they’ll just decide to stop operating altogether. And the attendants at the booths will NOT replace it for you.

At this stage, it can be confidently concluded that using a credit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay for the Subway is advisable. A single ride costs $2.75, and there is a weekly fare limit of $33 for 12 trips, meaning additional journeys beyond that quantity are free. That equates to around 4 rides daily over a three day NYC stay, a target that is effortlessly achievable.

Be certain to utilize specifically the very same payment option if you’re utilizing OMNY – either a physical card (that you can tap to pay elsewhere) or an Apple Wallet / Google Wallet.

They`ve even presented a $33 weekly fare limit lately, which means that after 12 journeys in a week (Sunday to Monday), you get the rest of the rides in that week completely free. The only reason you’d purchase a MetroCard prior to that introduction was to buy one of the endless weekly permits, but they’ve made those essentially obsolete.

It is worth reiterating that in order to benefit from capping your expenses at $33, YOU MUST USE THE EXACT SAME PAYMENT METHOD FOR THE ENTIRE TRIP.

For reference, here’s a full map of the Subway system.

The Ferry

a large white boat docked in a body of water

As mentioned earlier, the ferry system is a great way to navigate around New York City, specifically along the East River that runs between Manhattan and Brooklyn. If you’re attempting to get from Manhattan (Midtown or Lower Manhattan) to Dumbo or Williamsburg, we’d advise taking the scenic ferry route.

A diagrammatic portrayal of the complete ferry arrangements can be seen here.

Essentially, the ferry costs $2.75 per ride ($1.00 more if bringing a bicycle), tickets are purchased in advance before boarding either through the app or at the ticketing machines onsite, and it departs quickly once on the water.

It is primarily useful for traveling between Manhattan and Brooklyn only, even though theoretically one could also take it from Lower Manhattan to Midtown. However, the station locations are not conveniently placed for that, so the Subway provides a better option.


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Welcome to my travel website! I’m Mary Howard, an American who has been exploring the world full-time for 8 years.

Together with my husband, Intan, we often find ourselves in our second home, Bali, but our adventures take us to exciting destinations all over the globe.

Join us on our journey!

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