New York Itinerary: 3 Days of Iconic Sights and Local Favorites

Tackling NYC in just 3 days? Ambitious, but totally doable. This New York 3 Day Itinerary has you covered with iconic sights, killer food, and just enough time to pretend you’re a local. Let’s get started before the city moves on without you!

Three days in New York might sound too ambitious, but with a little planning (and a lot of stamina), it’s entirely possible to hit the highlights without feeling like a human tornado. From skyline views that stretch for miles to martinis worth their own cult following, this New York 3 Day Itinerary will guide you through the city’s greatest hits, blending sophistication and adventure (with a side of bagels, naturally). 

Early Morning: A Walk Through Central Park

There’s no better way to start your New York journey than with a serene, early-morning stroll through Central Park. This iconic 843-acre escape in the heart of Manhattan is a breath of fresh air—literally. Start by ambling around Bethesda Fountain, cross the beautifully arched Bow Bridge, and pay your respects at Strawberry Fields, a memorial to John Lennon. As the city slowly wakes up, you’ll have the park mostly to yourself—a rare and magical New York moment.

After soaking up the scenery, take a walk to the Guggenheim Museum. Admire Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural marvel from the outside, because even the building itself is a work of art, and gawk at its magnificent spiral shape.

Late Morning: The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Art buffs, rejoice! Your next stop is the Metropolitan Museum of Art, one of the world’s most prestigious cultural institutions. Spanning thousands of years of human history, the Met houses everything from ancient Egyptian artifacts to European masterpieces. Start at the Temple of Dendur for a peek into the Nile Valley, then breeze through the Impressionists before getting lost (in a good way) in the Arms and Armor collection. Plan to dedicate at least two to three hours here—long enough to appreciate the genius, but short enough to preserve your sanity.

• Getting there: After your park stroll, the Met is a pleasant 10-minute walk along 5th Avenue.
• Cost: Suggested admission is $30 for adults, $22 for seniors, and $17 for students (pay-what-you-wish for New York residents).

Read more: 10 Best Museums in NYC and Their Key Pieces

Lunch: Balthazar

It’s now time to indulge in some culinary excellence at Balthazar, an iconic French brasserie in SoHo. Expect to be surrounded by very cool diners (and maybe a celebrity or two) as you feast on steak frites, moules marinières, or a perfectly flaky croissant. Balthazar is the perfect place to savor deliciously decadent food while indulging in some serious people-watching at one of NYC’s most glamorous spots.

• Getting there: Take the 4/5/6 train to Spring Street, then enjoy a short walk to the brasserie.
• Cost: Lunch mains range from $25 to $45.

Early Afternoon: Explore SoHo

Since you’re already in SoHo, take some time to explore this fashionable neighborhood known for its cast-iron architecture and high-end boutiques. Whether you’re in the mood for shopping (your credit card might beg otherwise) or simply want to admire the artistry of the buildings themselves, SoHo provides a feast for the senses. Stroll through the cobblestone streets, pop into a gallery or two, and let the neighborhood’s blend of history and modern chicness sweep you away.

Late Afternoon: Top of the Rock at Sunset

Finish your first day with a sunset view from Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center. While many tourists flock to the Empire State Building, Top of the Rock offers equally stunning vistas with the added bonus of a perfect view of the Empire State itself. As the city’s skyline glows beneath you, watching the sun set over Central Park will cement the day’s magic. This is where you’ll get that iconic New York shot you’ve been dreaming of.

• Getting there: Walk or take the B/D/F/M trains to Rockefeller Center.
• Cost: General admission to Top of the Rock is around $40.

Dinner: Monkey Bar

To cap off your evening, indulge in an elegant dinner at Monkey Bar, a Midtown institution brimming with old-school glamour. Tuck into some lobster ravioli, savor a perfectly cooked steak, and enjoy the nostalgic charm of the Art Deco ambiance. You’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time to the golden age of Manhattan dining, with a side of witty banter, of course.

Post-Dinner: Broadway or Bemelmans Bar

After dinner, it’s time for a little post-dinner culture. Catch a Broadway show—because what’s a trip to New York without a toe-tapping, heart-soaring musical? If theater isn’t on the agenda, head to Bemelmans Bar at The Carlyle for a nightcap in one of the city’s most iconic watering holes. With murals by Ludwig Bemelmans (of Madeline fame) and live piano music, you’ll sip your martini while feeling like New York royalty.

Morning: Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge

Day two begins with a quintessential New York experience: walking across the Brooklyn Bridge. This iconic structure offers postcard-worthy views of Manhattan’s skyline. The earlier you start, the better—early mornings provide fewer crowds and a quieter, more magical crossing. Take your time as you stroll across, snapping photos of the sweeping views.

• Getting there: Take the 4/5/6 to Brooklyn Bridge/City Hall.
• Cost: Free.

Late Morning: DUMBO and Brooklyn Heights

Once you’ve crossed into Brooklyn, head down to DUMBO, one of the trendiest and most picturesque neighborhoods. Its cobblestone streets and art galleries make for an idyllic morning wander. Be sure to visit Brooklyn Bridge Park, where the skyline views are nothing short of breathtaking, and explore the neighborhood’s industrial charm.

After DUMBO, take a detour to Brooklyn Heights for a walk along the famous Promenade, where you’ll be rewarded with even more panoramic views of the city. This quiet, tree-lined neighborhood is perfect for strolling, with its rows of historic brownstones and an air of old-world elegance.

Lunch: Katz’s Delicatessen

After working up an appetite in Brooklyn, hop back over to Manhattan for a quintessential New York experience: lunch at Katz’s Delicatessen on the Lower East Side. Yes, it’s touristy, but where else can you get a pastrami sandwich this legendary? Plus, you can have your very own When Harry Met Sally moment—no faking required.

• Getting there: Take the F train from York Street to 2nd Avenue, and Katz’s is a short walk away.
• Cost: Sandwiches are large and run around $25, but they’re worth every penny.

Early Afternoon: 9/11 Memorial and Museum

After a satisfying bagel indulgence, make your way to the 9/11 Memorial and Museum. This sobering and powerful tribute to the lives lost on September 11th is a must-visit for anyone coming to New York. The museum walks you through the events of that day, while the memorial fountains, set in the footprints of the Twin Towers, offer a peaceful place for reflection.

• Getting there: Take the subway to Fulton Street (2/3/4/5/A/C/J/Z).
• Cost: Museum admission is $26 for adults.

Late Afternoon: Wall Street and Financial District

With some time to spare after the museum, take a walk through the Financial District, where the pulse of global finance is felt in every step. Stop by the New York Stock Exchange for a photo (although entrance is reserved for the financial elite) and pay a visit to the iconic Charging Bull statue, though good luck finding it without a crowd of tourists snapping selfies.

Dinner: Minetta Tavern

In the West Village you’ll find a charming mix of historic ambiance and trendy dining. For a classic New York experience, head to Minetta Tavern, where celebrities and locals alike gather to enjoy its legendary Black Label Burger and perfectly cooked steaks in a cozy, old-school setting.

Post-Dinner: Comedy Club or Django Jazz

For post-dinner entertainment, head to the Comedy Cellar, where you can catch top comedians (and the occasional surprise appearance from big-name stars) in an intimate setting. If you prefer a more musical end to your evening, make your way to The Django Jazz Club at The Roxy Hotel for smooth jazz in a speakeasy-style venue. Either way, you’ll be ending the night with a smile on your face.

Morning: MoMA (Museum of Modern Art)

Begin your final day at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), one of the world’s most influential museums of contemporary and modern art. From Van Gogh’s Starry Night to Warhol’s Campbell’s Soup Cans, MoMA’s collections will leave you both die-hard entusiast and casual observers inspired. 

• Getting there: Take the E or M train to 5th Avenue/53rd Street.
• Cost: General admission is $25 for adults.

Alternative Morning: American Museum of Natural History

If modern art isn’t quite your scene, swap the sleek galleries of MoMA for the exhibits at the American Museum of Natural History. Just a short walk across Central Park from the Upper East Side, this iconic museum offers a captivating journey through time, from towering dinosaur skeletons to dazzling gems and minerals. Take your time exploring its vast halls, and don’t forget to visit the massive blue whale hanging from the ceiling of the Ocean Life exhibit—it’s an Instagram must.

• Getting there: Cross the park or take the B/C train to 81st Street.
• Cost: Suggested admission is $28 for adults.

Lunch: The Standard Grill or Cookshop

Located right at the High Line’s entrance, The Standard Grill is a stylish spot perfect for a relaxed yet upscale lunch. The menu offers a modern take on American classics, from oysters to steak frites, making it an excellent choice for a leisurely meal in a cool, sophisticated setting.

A beloved neighborhood staple, Cookshop specializes in farm-to-table cuisine with a focus on sustainability. Dishes like grilled chicken and farm-fresh salads are both hearty and healthy, making it a great spot to refuel before walking along the High Line.

Afternoon: The High Line and Chelsea

After lunch, head to The High Line, an elevated park built on a former railway track. As you stroll above the city’s streets, you’ll take in art installations, wildflowers, and stellar views of Manhattan’s west side. The High Line will lead you through Chelsea, a neighborhood famed for its galleries, trendy boutiques, and the iconic Chelsea Market—the perfect place for a post-lunch coffee or snack.

Dinner: The Nines

End your trip with a bang at The Nines, an impossibly chic supper club in NoHo. This plush, red-velvet-draped venue feels like a throwback to old-school glamour, serving indulgent dishes like lobster mac and cheese and bone-in ribeye. The ambiance is just as delicious as the food, making it the perfect place to celebrate your final night in New York.

Post-Dinner: Cinema or Jazz Club

To wrap up your trip, catch a film at one of New York’s historic cinemas like the Film Forum or The Metrograph. If you’re in the mood for more live entertainment, swing by The Blue Note jazz club for a night of smooth tunes and cocktails. Either way, you’ll be ending your New York adventure on a high note.

There you have it—a 3-day NYC itinerary that covers the best of the city’s art, culture, history, and food, with a dash of jazz and cocktails to boot. Make sure to bring your walking shoes and an appetite for adventure.

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