My Ultimate 3 Day New York City Itinerary: How I Spent a Weekend in NYC as the Tourist I Am

Last Updated on March 21, 2025 by Oliver

I went to New York twice last year for long weekends—once in late summer and again in winter. And, of course, I loved it. But here’s the thing: I’ve been to New York quite a few times now, and every time I try to plan a trip, I end up scrolling through blog posts titled A Local’s Guide to NYC or Hidden Gems Only New Yorkers Know. And honestly? That’s not what I want.

I’m a tourist, okay? I want to do the tourist things. I don’t care about the random bar you go to just because you live in New York. I have three days, and I want to see all the cool, iconic stuff—without pretending I’ve “gone local” for the weekend.

So that’s exactly what this itinerary is. A jam-packed, no-BS guide to spending three days in NYC, doing all the fun, must-see things without wasting time. Of course, I’ll throw in some personal tips and recommendations along the way, but this is all about making the most of a quick trip—because that’s exactly what I wanted when I was planning mine.

New York City Itinerary Day 1

Alright, just so we’re clear—this itinerary is going to be packed. You don’t have to hit every single spot I mention, but I like to get up early and explore as much as possible. Ideally on foot, but luckily, NYC has the subway, so getting around is easy. (I’ll have a section on that below.)

On this first day, we’ll explore classic Midtown Manhattan spots. It’s perfect since there’s so much to do, all in the same area and within walking distance—a huge bonus!

Grab a Bagel for Breakfast

Obviously, the day starts with breakfast—I need fuel to hit the ground running. And while you can eat whatever you want, I’m going for a bagel. I mean, when in New York, right?

If I’m in Brooklyn, I’ll just hit up a bodega. These little corner shops with deli counters are everywhere, and they serve up solid (and cheap) bagel sandwiches. My go-to? Bacon, egg, and cheese on an everything bagel.

But since we’re starting the day in Midtown, I’m heading to Broad Nosh Bagels on 58th. Their lox and cream cheese bagel is unreal. I grab that, plus a large coffee, and take it over to Central Park to eat with a view.

Central Park

With my coffee in hand, I usually find a cozy bench, inhale my bagel, and then go for a little wander. I rarely make it past Bethesda Fountain—by then, my coffee’s gone anyway.

Wandering through Central Park is great because, let’s be honest, it’s probably the only truly peaceful place in all of New York. So, might as well soak it in while you can. I like to hang out by the fountain and the lake for a bit—if you’ve seen Friends with Benefits, you’ll recognize the spot (along with a hundred other movies).

Once I’ve had my Central Park fix, I head past the lake toward my first big attraction of the day—the American Museum of Natural History.

American Museum of Natural History

I really love the American Museum of Natural History—bit of a nerd for it, to be honest. I think I’ve been there three times now, just because every time I visit NYC, I’m with someone new, and they all want to go. And fair enough—it’s got huge dinosaur skeletons, all kinds of animals, and that massive blue whale hanging from the ceiling.

One year, I went with my brother and his wife, who brought their kids, and the little ones absolutely loved it. Pretty sure all little boys go through a dinosaur obsession phase, so this place was a hit.

Tickets are around $30, which is why I always get the New York Pass (more on that below), where admission is included.

⏰ Open: 10 AM – 5:30 PM
💰 Price: Around $30, but included in the New York Pass

If you’re really up for it, you can also swap this for—or add on—the Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET). It’s basically just a short walk across Central Park from the American Museum of Natural History, so getting there is easy. I love museums, but I’m also not the type who needs to visit every single one.

MOMA (The Museum of Modern Art)

If you’re into modern art, this one’s a must. Even if you’re not, MoMA has some super famous pieces like Van Gogh’s Starry Night, Picasso, Warhol, and all that good stuff.

I’m not going to lie, I don’t always get modern art, but I still think this museum is worth visiting, especially if it’s your first time in New York City. It’s also a great spot to take a break from walking around Midtown Manhattan, especially if it’s too hot or freezing outside. Entry is around $30, but again, this one’s included in the New York Pass (more on that below).

⏰ Open: 10:30 AM – 5:30 PM (Open till 7 PM on Saturdays)
💰 Price: Around $30, but included in the New York Pass

Rockefeller Center & Top of the Rock

We’re still in Midtown Manhattan, and I love how walkable this area is—it makes sightseeing so easy. From MoMA, we head down the famous Fifth Avenue toward Rockefeller Center, which (in my opinion) has the best observation deck in NYC. Why? Because from here, you actually get to see the Empire State Building in your skyline shots—which is kind of the whole point, right? That said, I also like to say I’ve been on the Empire State Building, so like the tourist I am, I’ll probably end up doing both observation decks in this itinerary.

Quick rundown: Top of the Rock sits on the 70th floor of Rockefeller Center (yep, the same place with the huge Christmas tree and ice skating rink during Christmas in New York). The views are 360 degrees, and they recently added The Beam, where you can take a photo that looks like you’re balancing on a steel beam like those famous NYC construction workers.

⏰ Open: 8 AM – Midnight
💰 Price: Around $60, but it’s included in the New York Pass
🌆 Best Time: Daytime for clear views, but night is also amazing with the city lights.

Times Square

Alright, I know Times Square is chaotic, touristy, and honestly a bit overwhelming—but you kinda have to see it at least once. The flashing billboards, the crowds, the street performers—it’s exactly what you imagine when you think of New York City. It’s also the heart of the Theater District, so if you’re seeing a Broadway show, this is where you’ll be.

I usually just walk through, take in the madness, and then move on. If you’re into people-watching, this is peak entertainment. Oh, and if you want that classic Times Square photo, the red steps above the TKTS booth are the best spot.

Joe’s Pizza (Broadway)

Remember how I said this is my full-on touristy New York City itinerary? Well, that includes the food, too. The debate over the best pizza in New York is never-ending, with people like Dave Portnoy giving their takes, but honestly—I’m not a New Yorker, and I don’t care. Most of them are good, so why not just go to the most famous one?

Joe’s Pizza is iconic, and yeah, it lives up to the hype. I got a Caprese slice and a white slice, and both were tasty and cheap. But let’s talk about the line—some people say they waited over 30 minutes. I only waited about 10, which was fine, but if it’s crazy long when you get there, just take a picture and move on. Upside Pizza is just a couple of blocks away, has no line, and tastes just as good.

I usually head to Bryant Park to enjoy my pizza and sit on the steps of the New York Public Library—it’s a classic thing to do.

🍕 What to Order: A plain cheese slice (classic NY-style)
💰 Price: Around $4 per slice
📍 Location: Multiple, but the original is in Greenwich Village

💡A cool little budget-friendly extra I only found out about recently—the Roosevelt Island Tram. It’s a cable car that connects Midtown Manhattan to Roosevelt Island, a tiny island on the East River.The best part is that it’s free, and you get amazing views of NYC without spending a dime.

New York City Itinerary Day 2

For the second day of my New York City itinerary, I’m still in Manhattan, but this time, we’re heading downtown. No more Midtown—we’re exploring Lower Manhattan, including areas like Chelsea, SoHo, and the Financial District. And just like yesterday, it’s all super walkable.

New York’s Financial District, 9/11 Memorial & One World Trade Center

I love the Financial District because there’s so much to see, and you can explore it all on foot without much effort. Everything is packed close together, making it easy to wander. I always start at Wall Street and the New York Stock Exchange, where, of course, I take the mandatory picture with the Charging Bull (because who doesn’t?).

From there, I usually head to the World Trade Center and the 9/11 Memorial, which is a must-see for anyone visiting NYC. It’s a powerful and emotional experience, but absolutely worth it. After taking it all in, I recommend walking over to Battery Park, where you can hop on the ferry to see the Statue of Liberty.

Staten Island Ferry & Statue of Liberty

When it comes to the Statue of Liberty, I think I’ve tried every possible way of seeing it—guided tour, Staten Island Ferry, helicopter ride, and even a party cruise around it. So, here’s the deal:

If you want the full experience, I recommend doing a guided tour to Ellis Island, where you can actually visit the statue. It’s included in the New York Pass, so if you have that, you might as well take advantage of it. I got to go inside the statue and walk up to the top, which is pretty cool.

But if you’re on a budget, the Staten Island Ferry is hands down the best free option. It only costs a couple of dollars as a public transport fare, and while you won’t get to step on Ellis Island, you’ll get a pretty close-up view of Lady Liberty without spending a fortune. So, it’s really up to you—both options are solid.

Chinatown

I actually love Chinatown in New York—I think it’s such a cool place that feels real. No over-the-top touristy nonsense, just busy streets, tiny shops, and some of the best cheap eats in the city.

The number one reason I come here is, of course, the food. I always stop at Tasty Dumpling, which—shocker—makes tasty dumplings. And the best part is I get a whole meal for under $10. That’s a win.

Right next to Chinatown is Little Italy, and because I love a sweet treat, I have to stop at Ferrara Bakery. Best cannoli in New York, hands down. Get one plain, one chocolate, and if you disagree… well, you’re just wrong.

Little Island & The High Line

Before heading to the Empire State Building, I love stopping at my two favorite parks in Manhattan that aren’t Central Park—Little Island and The High Line.

Little Island is a super unique floating park on the Hudson River. It looks like something out of a futuristic movie, with its cool, wavy design and amazing views of the Manhattan skyline. It’s a great place to just sit for a bit, relax, and take in the city without the usual chaos.

From there, I walk straight onto The High Line, which is probably one of the coolest parks in New York. It’s an old elevated train track that’s been turned into a public park with greenery, art installations, and some of the best views of West Side Manhattan. You can walk the entire thing in about 30 minutes, and it conveniently leads right into Chelsea, where we’re stopping next.

Chelsea Market

I love Chelsea Market. It’s one of the best places to grab a quick bite, whether you’re craving tacos, sushi, or a classic New York bagel. I usually just walk around, try a few different things, and soak in the atmosphere. It’s part shopping mall, part food hall, and part art gallery, which makes it a fun little stop before we hit one of the most iconic buildings in the world…

Empire State Building

Alright, time for the Empire State Building. As I mentioned earlier, I think Top of the Rock has the better view, but this is the Empire State Building—you have to go up at least once. The 86th-floor observation deck gives you those classic views of the city skyline, and if you go up to the 102nd floor, you get a 360-degree panoramic view of the entire city.

It’s open from 8 AM to 2 AM, so if you’d rather do this at night, you totally can. Just be prepared for long lines during peak hours. Tickets are around $50–$80, depending on which deck you want to visit, but again, this is included in the New York Pass if you have it.

📍 Location: Midtown Manhattan
🕒 Opening Hours: 8 AM – 2 AM
💰 Price: $50 – $80 (Included in the New York Pass)

New York City Itinerary Day 3

new york is deifnitely more than just manhatten and if you want to see all all new york has to offer you definitely need more than jsut three days but here we are so as ive spent my first 2 days in manhatten i might as well sspend my last day in a different borough which is brooklyn.

DUMBO

I’d definitely start the day in DUMBO (which, in case you’ve never heard of it, stands for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass). It’s that picturesque part of Brooklyn with cobblestone streets, old brick warehouses, and some of the best views of the Manhattan skyline.

Even just wandering around here is fun, but let’s be honest—you’re here for the photo. You know the one: the Manhattan Bridge perfectly framed between two red brick buildings. If you’re looking for the exact spot, just type “DUMBO Manhattan Bridge View” into Google Maps.

While you’re here, grab a slice at Grimaldi’s Pizzeria. Their pepperoni pizza is fantastic, and last time I was here, my family and I grabbed a whole pizza and found a chill spot in Brooklyn Bridge Park to eat with the entire Manhattan skyline in front of us. Pretty cool, if you ask me.

Williamsburg – Coffee, Vintage Shopping & Food Markets

After enjoying the views in DUMBO, I’d head over to Williamsburg, one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Brooklyn. This area is pretty hipster, and it’s all about cool coffee shops, street art, and some of the best vintage shopping in NYC. I love just wandering around here, popping into little boutiques and thrift stores—places like Beacon’s Closet and L Train Vintage always have some great finds.

And of course, I need my caffeine fix. Williamsburg has no shortage of amazing coffee spots, but Devoción is my go-to. Their coffee is insanely fresh (they roast their beans in-house), and the space itself is really cozy, with lots of greenery.

Smorgasburg – The Ultimate Flea and Food Market

If you’re in Brooklyn on a Saturday, you have to check out Smorgasburg, an outdoor vintage and food market right by the waterfront. It’s basically a giant collection of NYC’s best food vendors all in one spot, so you can try a little bit of everything. Last time I was here, I had the ramen burger (a burger where the bun is literally made of crispy ramen), some insane tacos, and finished off with a giant ice cream sandwich.

I love the market because it’s full of cool little vintage shops, making it more of a flea market than just a food market!

Domino Park – Best Sunset Spot in Brooklyn

For sunset, Domino Park is hands down my favorite spot. It’s right on the East River, so you get an unreal view of the Manhattan skyline as the sun sets behind the skyscrapers.

Now, I would tell you to bring a couple of beers and enjoy the view, but… let’s just say I learned the hard way that drinking in public isn’t exactly legal here. A police officer handed me a ticket for it, so yeah—definitely don’t do that (or at least be smarter about it than I was).

BRIC Festival – Live Music in Prospect Park

If you happen to be in NYC during summer, check out BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn! Festival in Prospect Park. I randomly ended up here one year, and it was such a cool experience—live music, great energy, and a fun way to experience Brooklyn beyond just the usual tourist spots.

Other Cool Things to Do in New York

Not everything made it into my itinerary, but that doesn’t mean these spots aren’t worth checking out. Most of these are quick stops—places you swing by, take a picture, and move on. Here are a few extras you might want to add to your NYC adventure:

• Grand Central Station – One of the most famous train stations in the world. Let’s be real, most people just come here to take a photo of the iconic ceiling or stand in the middle of the terminal pretending to be in a movie scene. Worth a quick stop if you’re nearby.
• Washington Square Park – A great little park in Greenwich Village, always buzzing with street performers, musicians, and NYU students.
• Radio City Music Hall – If you’re into live shows, this is a legendary venue, especially during Christmas when they have the famous Rockettes show. I didn’t include it in my itinerary since I usually skip big stage productions, but it’s definitely an NYC classic.
• St. Patrick’s Cathedral – Right in the middle of Fifth Avenue, this massive neo-Gothic cathedral is impressive both inside and out. I usually just admire it from the outside while walking between stops, but if you’re into historic churches, it’s worth stepping inside.
• West Village – Probably my favorite neighborhood in NYC for wandering without a plan. Think charming brownstones, tiny coffee shops, and some of the best hidden bars. I didn’t include it in my main itinerary because it’s more about just vibing than checking off sights, but if you want to slow down and explore, this is the place.
• Helicopter Tour Around Manhattan – This was definitely one of the coolest things I did. At around $200 for just 15 minutes, it’s crazy expensive, but not gonna lie—flying in a helicopter around the Empire State Building, One World Trade Center, Madison Square Garden, and the Statue of Liberty is pretty badass.

Is the New York City Pass Worth It for Your New York City Itinerary 3 Days? 🎟️

If you’re planning to visit several major attractions in New York City, the New York City Pass by Go City can save you a good amount of money. It includes entry to popular spots like:

✅ Empire State Building
✅ Top of the Rock
✅ Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
✅ The MET & MoMA
✅ American Museum of Natural History
✅ 9/11 Memorial & Museum
✅ And more!

💰 Price: Starts at around $89 for 2 activities and $179 for 5 activities

📅 Valid for: Passes are valid for up to 30 days

🎟️ Best for: If you’re visiting at least 3-4 major attractions, the pass easily pays for itself.

I’ve used it before, and it’s super convenient if you’re planning a lot of sightseeing. You just scan your pass at each attraction—no need to buy separate tickets. Check the official website for up-to-date prices and included attractions.

Travel Tips for Your Weekend in New York

Alright, now that you’ve got my favorite stops for this 3-day New York City itinerary, here are a few extra tips to help you prep for your trip.

What I Pack for My Trip to New York

When I go to New York, I keep it simple but practical. First, comfortable walking shoes—because you’ll be on your feet all day. A small backpack or crossbody bag is a must for carrying essentials without feeling like a pack mule.

I always check the weather before packing—New York summers are hot, and winters are brutal, so layers are key. A power bank is non-negotiable since Google Maps drains my phone, and I always bring a refillable water bottle because NYC tap water is actually great.

For the subway, I either get a MetroCard or just tap my phone. Sunglasses and sunscreen are lifesavers in the summer, and of course, I bring my camera (or just rely on my phone) because there’s no shortage of things to capture. That’s it—pack light, dress comfortably, and you’re good to go.

How to Get Around in New York City

Getting around NYC is actually super easy once you get the hang of it. The subway is the fastest and cheapest way—just tap your credit card or phone at the turnstile; no need to buy a MetroCard anymore. Trains run 24/7, but some late-night routes can be slow or rerouted, so always check Google Maps.

Buses are fine if you’re not in a rush, and yellow cabs are iconic but pricey. Uber and Lyft are everywhere, but surge pricing is brutal. Walking is the way to go, though! Honestly, half the fun of New York is just wandering around. And whatever you do, don’t rent a car—traffic is insane, parking is a nightmare, and the subway is just better.

Where I Stayed in New York City

There’s no point in me listing a bunch of hotels I’ve never stayed at—you can just open Booking.com and find those yourself. Instead, I’d rather share the places I actually stayed in, what I liked, what I didn’t, and whether I’d book them again.

Also, New York hotels are expensive—even the most basic ones cost more than you’d expect. If you’re on a budget, don’t rule out hostels, pod hotels, or even Airbnb. Now, here’s where I stayed:

The Chemist Club Hotel (Midtown Manhattan)

Last year, I went to New York for my birthday weekend—special occasion, so you treat yourself, right? I booked a stay at The Chemist Club Hotel in Midtown, and it was amazing. Yes, we paid around $300 a night, but we booked way in advance, and honestly, that’s cheap for a 4-star hotel in NYC. The staff was incredible, the beds were super comfy, and they even had a terrace with a great view. If I wanted to splurge again, I’d 100% stay here.

Best Western Premier NYC Gateway Hotel (New Jersey)

This one’s technically not in New York—it’s in New Jersey, but honestly, who cares? I just hopped on the metro, and it took me 15 minutes to get into Manhattan. It’s definitely more basic than the first hotel, but at under $200 a night, it was a much more budget-friendly option. The hotel was clean, had everything I needed, and the staff was super friendly and helpful when I was there. If you’re looking for a cheaper way to stay near NYC, this is a solid option.

Where to Eat in New York City

Honestly, trying to make a “best restaurants in NYC” list is impossible, and I wouldn’t even dare. The food scene here is insane, and everyone has wildly different opinions. So instead of pretending to be a food critic, I’ll just give you some general advice and a few spots I personally loved.

First off, if you’re wandering around Brooklyn, bodegas are the way to go. These little corner shops with deli counters are where locals grab their bagels and sandwiches, and honestly, they’re some of the best you’ll find. No need to hunt down a famous spot—just walk into one that looks busy, and you’ll be set.

Same goes for cheap pizza. If you’re on a budget, don’t be afraid of those $1.50 slice spots. Is it the best pizza in NYC? Probably not. But it’s pizza, it’s hot, and it does the job. And let’s be real—the worst pizza is still pretty damn good.

Now, a few places I actually went to and loved:
Buddies Coffee in Williamsburg – Fantastic espresso, great vibe, and perfect for a mid-day caffeine boost.
Empanada Mama in Hell’s Kitchen – Life-changing empanadas. I’m serious. And super cheap compared to most sit-down restaurants in NYC.

At the end of the day, just eat what looks good. The best meals I’ve had in New York weren’t planned—they were just random stops when I was hungry.

FAQs About My New York City Itinerary

How many days do you need in New York City?

You could spend a lifetime in NYC and still not see everything, but for a first-time visit, I think three to five days is perfect. Three days lets you hit the major spots, eat some amazing food, and get a feel for the city without completely wearing yourself out.

Is $1000 enough for 3 days in New York?

It depends on how you travel. If you’re staying in a decent hotel, eating out for every meal, and doing all the big attractions, $1000 will disappear fast. But if you’re staying in a budget-friendly spot, using the subway, and mixing in free activities like Central Park and the Staten Island Ferry, you can make it work.

What to do in New York City?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here because NYC has everything. Classic sights like Times Square, the Empire State Building, and Central Park, as well as lesser touristy spots like Roosevelt Island or Domino Park. Amazing food, Broadway shows, museums, rooftop bars—the list is endless. My advice is to just pick a mix of must-sees and spots that sound fun to you.

Final Thoughts on My New York Itinerary

New York is chaotic, overwhelming, and expensive—but it’s also one of the most exciting cities in the world. Whether you follow my itinerary exactly or mix in your own must-sees, you’ll have an incredible time. Just wear comfy shoes, don’t be afraid of the subway, and for the love of all things holy, never stop in the middle of the sidewalk.

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