4 Days in NYC – The Ultimate Itinerary for First Timers

Want to spend a fun-filled 4 days in NYC?

Lucky you! You’ve got 4 days in NYC to explore the sites, see a show, have adventures, find hidden gems, and eat some of the best food you’ve ever had!

As a New York addict, I can say that visiting the city with a structured itinerary is a great idea – for first timers, or veteran visitors. Check out this 4 days in NYC itinerary and adjust it to your preferences.

The island of Manhattan is just over 13 miles long and over 2 miles wide, but packs a huge punch when it comes to how much there is to see and do. I’m going to give you suggestions to see a lot of NYC from downtown all the way uptown. I guarantee you’ll feel satisfied with your trip, and not too overwhelmed or rushed.

Pro Tip: Before you go:

• Pack the most comfortable walking shoes you have. Or boots if going in the winter.
• Make Dinner reservations in advance. I have many recommendations here!
• Get your Broadway show Tix via Today Tix. Message me know if you want recs for some of my favorite shows!
• Get tix for other entertainment ie: opera, ballet, jazz clubs, symphony, TV shows, etc.
• Get Museum Tix.
• Get Statue of Liberty Tix.
• Get Observation Deck Tix ie: Empire State Building.
• Use this nighttime in NYC guide for info and ideas about all the evening entertainment options.

Click on the Map for all the places to see on your 4 Days in NYC Itinerary

The Ultimate Itinerary for 4 Days in New York City

This 4 days in NYC itinerary will give you all the support you need for a fabulous trip to the Big Apple. I’m sharing some of my all time favorites and some special gems.

I’ve organized your days into Morning, Afternoon, and Evening in Lower Manhattan, Uptown, Midtown, and Chelsea.

Mix it up if you like, and check out my other NYC itineraries for even more ideas and choices. Get ready for fun!

Day One of 4 Days in NYC: Lower Manhattan

I’m starting you off with a full day of touring in the amazing world of Lower Manhattan. This part of the city is like a city in itself – I love to get lost downtown and always discover something new.

Lower Manhattan is where NYC began, so you’ll find some of the city’s most historic landmarks here, as well as reminders of our recent history at the 911 memorial site.

Day 1 Morning: Statue of Liberty/ 911 Memorial/ FiDi, Chinatown/ Little Italy/ Greenwich Village

Day 1 Breakfast Time: Russ & Daughters 179 East Houston Street
This Jewish Deli is a New York City icon of the Lower East Side. Best breakfasts, bagels, lox, and more!

Ride the Ferry to The Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

You’ve gotta see her at least once in your life! Is the Statue of Liberty Worth it? She’s historic and magnificent – not to mention the fun of being on the water and seeing the skyline views. Visiting the Ellis Island Immigration Museum is a highlight. Get an outside seat on the Ferry!

Departure Location: Castle Clinton Fort Monument – Statue Cruise Ferry is located in Battery Park.
Hours: First boat departs 9:30 AM and last boat departs 3:30 PM. Boats run throughout the day departing from Battery Park, Liberty Island, and Ellis Island every 25 minutes.
Time: From 2 – 6 hours depending on your choices.
Cost: $24.50 ticket available onsite and on line.  Ticket includes a round trip ferry service to both Liberty Island and Ellis Island and an Audio Tour is included. 
Return: Boats return to Battery Park from Liberty Island and Ellis Island every 25 minutes throughout the day.
The WILL CALL WINDOW IS #6 AT Castle Clinton.

• General Admission – Includes cruise to Liberty Island & Ellis Island, does not include entry to the inside of the Statue.
  $24. – Adult | $18 – Senior 62+ | $12 – Child 4-12 | Free – Child under 4.
• Pedestal Ticket – Includes cruise and entry inside the Statue of Liberty pedestal.
  $24.30 – Adult | $18.30 – Senior 62+ | $12.30 – Child 4-12 | Free – Child under 4.
• Crown Ticket – Includes cruise and entry inside both pedestal & crown.
  $24.30 – Adult | $18.30 – Senior 62+ | $12.30 – Child 5-13 | Children under 4 not allowed
  Both pedestal tickets and crown tickets are limited and must be reserved ahead of time.

Pro Tip: I don’t think you need to do the Pedestal or Crown – for me, seeing the Statue and Ellis Island is enough.
Pro Tip: DO NOT BUY TIX from people on the street or in line or at the subway trying to sell them to you. This is a SCAM!

Day 1 Afternoon: One World Trade Center/911 Memorial/Oculus

After the ferry ride, walk to the 9/11 Memorial site.
There’s no fee to enter the memorial site, but there is a fee for the museum.
The Memorial Site is Open between 10 AM and 5 PM. 
The 9/11 Memorial Museum is open Thursday – Monday 10AM – 5PM
Pro Tip: You’ll find restrooms and food in the Oculus.

The 9/11 memorial is the location of the 2001 attack at the World Trade Towers. The artistic plaza was designed by Michael Arad and Peter Walker. It honors the 2977 people killed at the World Trade Center, in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, and the Pentagon on 9/11, as well as the six people killed in the World Trade Center bombing in 1993.

The twin reflecting pools surrounded by the names of 9/11 victims etched in bronze is a meditative and moving sight. Take your time, as this can be a very emotional experience. 

You’ll also see One World Trade Center, known as the Freedom Tower, and the Survivor Tree. The Oculus is also on the site as the massive shopping and transportation center designed by Santiago Calatrava,  to resemble a dove flying from a child’s hands. These are some of the must-see places in New York that should be on your one-day, three-day, or five-day itinerary.

See the New York Stock Exchange and the Fearless Girl

Wall Street & Broad Street

Walk to Wall Street and stand with the 4 foot Fearless Girl Statue in front of the New York Stock Exchange Building. At 9:30 AM on weekdays, the opening bell is heard. While visitors aren’t allowed inside, it’s still cool to see this famous center of world economy.

The Fearless Girl, erected in 2017, honors International Women’s Day. Originally, she was placed staring down the Charging Bull statue, as a symbol of women’s empowerment. That proved to be upsetting for the Bull artist, so our girl was moved to the stock exchange building.

Get some Good Luck from The Charging Bull

Bowling Green & Morris Street
10AM – 4:30PM
Head to Bowling Green Park, and Morris St. to see the giant bronze Charging Bull. There will be lines for photos and a chance to rub him for good luck. 

The Charging Bull, erected in 1989, symbolizes the recovery from the 1987 stock market crash. The artist literally dropped the 7000 pound bronze sculpture in front of the NY Stock Exchange building next to the Christmas tree. Members of the stock exchange demanded the Bull be removed. However, when New Yorkers protested, the Bull was given a home at Bowling Green Park..

See the Historic Trinity Church 

89 Broadway
Walk to the historic Trinity Church with its distinct clock tower and stained glass window. This Episcopal Church was built in 1839 and is a National Historic Monument as well as a functioning church. There are often services, so you might not be able to step inside. Peek into the churchyard where many famous figures are buried, including Alexander Hamilton and his wife Elizabeth Schuyler.

Day 1 Snack Time: Wander through Little Italy and Chinatown for lunch or some fun treats!

Little Italy
Mulberry Street
Check out New York’s famous Little Italy. You’ll find incredible restaurants and bakeries. Mulberry Street is famous for its San Genarro Festival in September and has been the setting of many movies.

Chinatown
Mott Street between Bleecker & Chatham Square or Canal Street
Visit the bustling and lively Chinatown. You’ll find the best Chinese noodles, teas, boutiques, and souvenir shops. Just avoid all the street vendors trying to sell you knock-off purses and stuff. They’re annoying, but harmless.

Day 1 Evening: Greenwich Village & SoHo

Greenwich Village is famous for its hip culture and colorful history. Home to New York University, and the site where many famous artists like Bob Dylan and Jackson Pollack used to live. This neighborhood features Federal style homes of the 1800’s.

Washington Square Park
Washington Square
Don’t miss Washington Square Park and its arch, built in 1892.  Would you believe that more than 20,000 people were buried in this field, and others were publicly executed here, in the 1790’s?

Today, it’s the place where people gather, make music, sell stuff, and protest. See if you can find the oldest tree in NYC, 300 years old, in the northwest corner of the park known as the Hangman’s Elm, the Hanging Tree.

Pro Tip: The Friends TV show apartment building is at 90 Bedford St. & Grove St.
Sex in the City‘s Carrie Bradshaw’s (the other Carrie) apartment is at 64 Perry St. (The show had Carrie living at 245 E. 73rd St.,the exterior shots were actually in the Village.)

Day 1 Dinner: Here are some of my top suggestions!

• Waverly Inn – 16 Bank St. This is a cozy spot with great drinks and hearty American fare.
• Dante – 79 Macdougal St. This is an historic Italian cafe in the Village known for being the world’s best bar.
• Lola Taverna – 210 6th Ave. Come here for some of the best Greek & Mediterranean food you’ll ever have!
• Jack’s Wife Freda – 226 Lafayette St lively all-day bistro offering American-Mediterranean cuisine and classic cocktails in an understated setting.
• Lure Fishbar – 142 Mercer St. This is my favorite sushi restaurant in a great atmosphere.

Day 1 Night Time: A Speakeasy Throwback

The Back Room – 102 Norfolk St.
Look for The Lower East Side Toy Company sign on a little gate, walk down the steps into the alley and then up a staircase with toy cars displayed on the landing. Look for Laurel & Hardy telling you to Be Quiet in the Alley. This door is the same hidden entrance from the original 1920’s speakeasy. You’ll enjoy your cocktails in tea cups while you sit on velvet sofas and listen to music. 

The Garret West – 7th & Bleeker
Walk into the Five Guys Restaurant but don’t order anything because you’re looking for the hidden staircase in the back. There you’ll find a beautiful speakeasy club famous for its delicious cocktails.

Day Two of 4 Days in NYC: Uptown

The Upper West Side and Upper East Side frame Central Park. On the west side are classic pre-war Beaux Arts buildings, Columbia University, hip cafes and boutiques, the American Museum of Natural History, and the famous Zabar’s market. On the east side are the elegant gilded age mansions along Fifth Avenue, the Metropolitan Museum of Art on Museum Mile, and Gracie Mansion.

Pro Tip: The Dakota Building 1 West 72nd Street is where John Lennon was tragically shot.
The Belnord 225 West 86th Street is the real name of the fictional Arconia Building in the TV show Only Murders in the Building.

Day 2 Morning: The Met & Central Park

Day 2 Breakfast Time: Try one of these great uptown spots:

• Zabar’s – 2245 Broadway & 80th St. This famous market/deli and cafe is a NYC staple and has every gourmet treat you could want, great coffee, and amazing bakery.
• Modern Bread & Bagel – 472 Columbus Ave & 83rd St.  AND at 1427 3rd Ave & 82nd St. This completely Gluten Free bakery has my fav bagels, cream cheese, lox – the whole thing!
• Maman – 1424 3rd Ave & 81st St. If you want a really cute french breakfast and delish coffee, get in line to order here. Busy, but worth it!

Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art

5th Avenue and 81st Street
7 days a week from 9:30 – 5:30 and until 9 PM on Friday and Saturday

The Met is New York’s premiere fine art museum and literally has something for everyone. I have spent more hours enjoying this museum than I can count. I recommend you take your time, choose a few things you want to see and then relax in one of the cafes or just sit on a bench and soak in a favorite painting.

Explore Central Park

Who doesn’t love wandering in Central Park? Walk behind the museum and find 843 acres of public land. Check here for all the best things to do in Central Park. You’ll find signs with a map and a QR code to load an app. Walk along The Mall that appears in all your favorite movies, see the castle, lakes, the carousel, playgrounds, a skating rink, more than 30 bridges, the Jackie O Reservoir, an amphitheater, and a zoo!

Day 2 Afternoon: The Natural History Museum & The Zoo

Day 2 Snack Time: Tavern on the Green
Central Park & 67th Street
11AM – 10PM Sun – Thurs, 11AM – 11PM Weekends

Visit Tavern on the Green while you’re in the park for an appetizer or a meal. This is the iconic restaurant tucked into the park with cozy fireplaces, outdoor seating, and a classic bar. We always have such a nice time relaxing with a drink and some appetizers there.

Stop into the American Museum of Natural History

200 Central Park West & 79th St.
Daily 10AM – 5:30PM

The American Museum of Natural History, originally opened in 1877. Inside is a collection of more than 32 million species of plants, animals, rocks, and human remains. If you’ve seen it in the Night at the Museum movies you’ll recognize the planetarium, the dinosaur skeletons, and the butterflies. 

Central Park Zoo & Tisch Children’s Zoo

Central Park & 64th St.
10AM – 4:30PM

The delightful Central Park Zoo is a 6.5 acre zoo in the southeast corner of Central Park. You’ll find penguins, snow leopards, monkeys, grizzly bears and a petting zoo. All are stars of the animated Madagascar movie!

Day 2 Evening: Dinner & A Broadway Show

Day 2 Dinner: Dos Caminos
1567 Broadway & 47th St.
Walk downtown toward the theater and duck into the Dos Caminos Restaurant at Times Square for Mexican food before your show. We like to eat here because it’s great, and super close to all the theaters, so you don’t have to worry about getting to the theater on time.

Pro Tip: Check your tix for the correct showtime! You DO NOT want to be late!!!

See A Broadway Show

You have your tix and know just where you’re going – Getting to the theater might be hectic, but a prepared theater goer is a happy theater goer! Enjoy the show! It’s always the best in NYC.

Pro Tip: Download Today Tix app on your phone now and start your search to buy your seats for a show. NYC theaters are intimate and well designed, so all seats will be good.
Pro Tip: Times Square is wild! Be prepared for huge crowds, random people in costumes asking you to pay them to take pics with them, and an overwhelming energy.
Pro Tip: Leaving the theater can be a bit of a challenge. I suggest you walk east or west AWAY from Times Square before calling a ride share back to your hotel. If you’re taking the subway, then head underground at Times Square and consult your app or ask an attendant for directions to your train.

Today is all about Midtown, iconic New York landmarks and so much history and excitement. Get your camera ready and be sure to look up to see some of the most famous buildings in the world!

Day 3 Morning & Afternoon: Midtown Landmarks

Day 3 Breakfast: Ellen’s Diner
1650 Broadway & 51st Street
Touristy, but also super fun! Enjoy mediocre diner food with top notch singing waiters and waitresses. Expect a line, so go early. 

See All Things Fifth Avenue

Walk to 5th Avenue after breakfast and get ready for lots of iconic sites and photo shoots. Your big activity today will be watching the sunset from the Empire State Building.

Here are 9 key stops – Try to hit them all or pick & choose:
1. The Plaza Hotel 768 5th Avenue & 59th Street 
From the elegant lobby, to the Palm Court restaurant, and the Champagne Bar, The Plaza is divine. There is a lot of construction going on outside, but head inside for the real feel. Check out the little bookstore upstairs for some Eloise merch.

2. Pulitzer Fountain Grand Army Plaza & Central Park South – 
John Pulitzer donated $50,000 in 1916 for this fountain with a statue of Pomona, the goddess of abundance.

3. Rockefeller Center 5th Avenue & 50th Street 
Take it all in – the Atlas statue, the ice skating rink, the fountain, the flags, 30 Rock, and Radio City Music Hall. Sadly, only private events are now allowed in the Rainbow Room, but stroll inside if you want to do some shopping. Head up to the Top of The Rock observation deck, if you prefer the morning views rather than sunset at the Empire State.

4. New York City Public Library 42nd Street & 5th Avenue – 10AM – 8PM
The Stephen A. Schwarzman Building library is the main branch of the NYC library system. I really love visiting this 1911 building with its lion statues in front. Don’t miss the Rose Reading Room and the Treasures Room. Take a free docent tour — it’s one of the free things you can do in New York. Check the library’s website here.

5. Bryant Park Behind the library
Behind the library is midtown’s special gem. Bryant Park has a lovely cafe and is always hosting something, from Fashion Week to a Winter Village, or yoga classes to concerts. And the best public bathrooms are here!

6. Grand Central 89 East 42nd Street & Park Avenue
You’ve got to head to the main concourse of the one and only Grand Central Station! Built by the famed Cornelius Vanderbilt, the Beaux Arts building is a marvel still. Look up at the beautiful 125 foot ceiling painted with turquoise and gold zodiac symbols and lights embedded to sparkle like stars. You can even find the secret whispering gallery. Info here.

7. Chrysler Building 405 Lexington Avenue & 42nd Street
Arguably one of New York’s most beautiful buildings, the Chrysler Building is an Art Deco era stunner that is famous for its spire and stands 1046 feet high. I highly recommend you take a stroll inside to see the 1930’s famous 100 foot mural that was painted in the lobby, entitled Transport and Human Endeavor by Edward Turnbull. Be sure to notice the inlaid elevator doors and the marble floors.

8.MoMa 11 West 53rd Street & 5th Avenue
If you’ve got time and are an art lover, like moi, then visit New York’s premier art museum of modern and contemporary art. I love the permanent collection and there’s always an exciting new exhibit to see each time I go. 

9. St. Patrick’s Cathedral 5th Avenue & 51st Street
St. Patrick’s is the stunning and historic Catholic Cathedral, seat of the Archbishop of New York.

Day 3 Snack Time: Angelina Paris at Bryant Park
1050 6th Avenue
We love Angelina’s in Paris and New York! You’ve never had hot chocolate quite like this before. Wait in line for a table, or just get a cup to go!

Day 3 Evening: Romantic Sunset at the Empire State Building

20 West 34th St.
8:AM- 2:AM daily
I want you to experience one of New York City’s most iconic and memorable activities – watching the sunset from the 86th floor of the Empire State Building.

The Empire State was built in 1931. The deck heights are 1050 feet at the 86th floor, 1250 feet at the 102nd floor! As the tallest building in the world of the time, it stood at 1454 feet tall. 

It’s romantic in all senses of the word. Yes, it’s touristy – but for a reason! Watching the sun set over the city as the lights come on, while you’re sipping champagne – come on! It’s great!

Pro Tip: Get your sunset tix in advance here.

Day 3 Dinner Time: Whitby Hotel Bar & Restaurant 
18 W 56th Street

If you’re looking for a truly classy and unusual setting for a divine snack, tea time, or full meal, then visit this artful spot designed by Kit Kemp, as part of the Firmdale Hotels. You’ll go nuts trying to figure out what is prettier, the place or the food! Everything is both delicious and lovely, and the service is top notch!

Day Four of 4 Days in NYC: Chelsea

The Hudson River to Hudson Street and West 14th St. to Gansevoort St. is the Chelsea District. 
On your last day of the 4 day itinerary, I’m sending you to Chelsea. This is one of the most hip neighborhoods in Manhattan because of all the art galleries, the markets, the architecture, and the views of the Hudson River.From the Hudson River to Hudson Street and from West 14th St. to Gansevoort St. is the Chelsea District. 

Day 4 Morning: Chelsea Market and The Whitney

Day 4 Breakfast Time: Chelsea Market – 75 9th Avenue
The Chelsea Market was formerly the Nabisco (National Biscuit Company) factory and has been renovated into a fabulous market hall with gourmet food shops and unique boutiques.

Visit the Whitney Museum

99 Gansevoort St. Daily
10:30 – 6PM, closed Tuesdays
The Whitney is the famous American contemporary art museum overlooking the Hudson River. I love this museum because it’s a perfect size and has incredible exhibits. Don’t miss the outside sculpture garden balcony!

Day 4 Afternoon: Enjoy The High Line & Little Island

Walk The High Line

Climb the steps from the Whitney Museum up to the High Line, a unique public park filled with views, gardens, and art installations. The High Line is different in each season! It was created on the historic railroad tracks that used to deliver meat, above the streets of the Manhattan. You can walk from Gansevoort St. to 34th St. to the famous Vessel structure at Hudson Yards.

Check Out Little Island

Check out the funny Little Island built on pods in the Hudson River, next to the Chelsea Piers. The park opened in 2021 and offers all kinds of public programing. Stroll around the 2.4 acre island, enjoy the art, the activities, and the views.

Day 4 Snack Time: Pier 57 Rooftop Park
Next to Little Island is the Pier 57 food court and a delightful Rooftop Park. Get some food and sit on the rooftop to enjoy the views.

Hudson Yards

As you come to the end of the High Line you’ll see the Vessel, a giant structure for exploring and then head inside to Hudson Yards for some shopping.

Day 4 Evening: Dinner & Speakeasy

Dinner Time Day 3: Hav & Mar 245 11th Ave. This is an award winning awesome seafood restaurant in the artsy Chelsea district. The atmosphere is modern and classy and they offer globally inspired meals and seasonal produce.

If you still have energy, how about a comedy show? A Jazz club? Or go to a few Speakeasies? Explore more of the nightlife available in the city that literally never sleeps!

Where to stay in NYC

I’ve pounded the pavement for you finding the safest places to stay in NYC. Among them you should be able to find great and affordable choices. Look here for my top picks. Safest Places To Stay in NYC. There are plenty of small and nice boutique hotels throughout the city. 

Here are quick pick recs for a budget hotel downtown, a mid-range hotel uptown, and a luxury hotel in midtown.  All with great reviews.

Pro Tip: Prices fluctuate A LOT in NYC, depending on when you go. So, keep checking.

Best Budget Spot – Arlo Soho -231 Hudson St.  Arlo Soho is in the heart of Greenwich Village, has a rooftop bar, and views of the river. 

The Best Mid-Range Spot -The Empire Hotel -44 West 63rd St.
I recommend the Empire Hotel because it’s tucked into a perfect spot across from Lincoln Center, steps away from Central Park. It’s considered the iconic “crown jewel” of Midtown.

Top Mid-Range Spot – The Hotel Beacon – 2130 Broadway The Hotel Beacon is a historic building on the Upper West Side with apartment style rooms near Central Park. 

Best Luxury Spot – Lotte New York Palace – 455 Madison Ave. Lotte New York Palace was formerly the historic Villard Mansion, on Madison Avenue. 

→ Check Out Great Vacation Rentals in NYC Here!

Is It Worth Going to New York for 4 days?

Absolutely! I think 4 days gives you a great feel for NYC and you can cover a lot of ground or scale it way back if you want to luxuriate a bit. Pick and choose from this itinerary for 4 days in NYC to tailor your trip to meet your needs.

What to pack for 5 days in New York?

Weather and season will have a huge impact on what to bring, so here’s an outline for some basics in the different times of year. Remember that most New Yorkers are not fashion models and typically dress for comfort and convenience.

When touring around, you’re likely to leave your hotel in the morning and not return again until bedtime, so one stylish and comfortable outfit per day, with layers, should suffice.

Winter/Spring Packing for NYC

• Very comfortable water proof shoes or boots and warm socks.
• Very warm waterproof coat or jacket.
• Hat, gloves, scarf.
• Casual outfits – pants, warm shirts, a sweater.
• One nicer outfit in case you want to dress up one evening for a show or nice restaurant.
• A lightweight day pack.
• A portable phone charger.

Summer/Fall Packing for NYC

• Very comfortable walking shoes or sneakers, waterproof if expecting rain.
• A lightweight jacket.
• Casual outfits – pants, lightweight shirts, a sweater.
• One nicer outfit in case you want to dress up one evening for a show or nice restaurant.
• A lightweight day pack.
• A portable phone charger.
• Sunscreen.

What is the best way to see New York?

New York City might seem overwhelming initially, but it’s actually easier than you think to navigate.

Exploring NYC on Foot  
Walking is the ultimate way to explore New York City. It’s enjoyable, safe, and lets you take in so much of the city’s energy. See how much of Manhattan’s 13.4 miles you can cover during your trip!  

Getting Around NYC by Subway & Bus 
The subway is the fastest and most efficient way to navigate NYC.  

Pro Tip: Use the “transit” option in your phone’s Maps/GPS app to find the closest subway station and the best route to your destination. This method works seamlessly!  

Pro Tip: Download the official **MY MTA App** (Metropolitan Transit Authority) for subway, bus, and rail maps and schedules. It’s a lifesaver.  

Pro Tip: Add your credit card to your phone’s wallet for easy access. Just tap the OMNY (One Metro New York) screen at the turnstile, and you’re good to go—no MetroCard needed!  

• Each ride costs $2.90. The easiest thing is to TAP TO PAY with your smartphone, credit card, or OMNY (One Metro New York) card.
• If you tap with the same device within 7 days, you’ll be capped at $34 and ride free the rest of the 7 days! If you spend less than $34, you’re only charged for the rides you take.
• You can tap in up to 4 people on your same device or card.
• Note: if it’s your first time tapping, it takes a few minutes for your bank to approve a new user, so you might not be able to tap in others on your first time.
• Subways and bus fares are $1.45 for 65 or older and those with disabilities – if you have applied for the reduced fare program. More info here.

Getting Around NYC by Uber, Lyft, Revel, or Taxi  
Ride-sharing services make getting around NYC a breeze. While pricier for solo travelers, they can be more cost-effective for groups compared to multiple subway fares.  

Pro Tip: Download Uber, Lyft, and Revel in advance so you can compare rates on the spot—fares can fluctuate throughout the day. Taxis are easy to find, just hail one from the curb. If the cab’s light is on, it’s available. There’s also the Curb App for booking taxis, though they may take longer to arrive than ride share services.  

Seeing NYC by Ferry  
NYC Ferries connect Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island via the East River and Hudson River. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy skyline views from the water!  

Pro Tip:If you plan to take the ferry, download the NYC Ferry App by Hornblower to purchase tickets and get a QR code for boarding. It makes the process seamless! 

Best Time To Go To New York City

No matter when you go, NYC is always an exciting destination! Here’s what to expect throughout the year: 

June through September is a peak travel season. The city is buzzing with energy, but keep in mind that summer heat can be intense, especially on the streets!  

Fall offers ideal weather, with temperatures in the 60s and 70s. The crowds thin out, the sun is still shining, and the crisp air complements the changing leaves—perfect for exploring.

November and December bring a magical holiday atmosphere. The city lights up with festive decor, winter attractions, and, of course, the iconic New Year’s Eve celebration.  

Check out The Things To Do In New York City At Christmas here!

February and March are great for budget-conscious travelers. While the weather can be chilly and snowy, crowds are smaller, and prices are more affordable. Just bundle up in layers and bring waterproof shoes and an umbrella! 

Are you excited for your 4 days in NYC?

In a nutshell…

Four days in New York City will fly by, but with this itinerary, you’ll experience the best of Lower Manhattan, Uptown, Midtown, and Chelsea. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, each neighborhood offers something unforgettable.

Whether you’re soaking in skyline views, exploring world-class museums, or indulging in NYC’s incredible food scene, this trip will leave you wanting more.

Until next time—because there’s always another reason to return to the city that never sleeps!

xx,
Carrie