5 Days in NYC – The Perfect Itinerary for First Timers (2026)

You have 5 days in NYC, what should you do?

What a luxury! You’ve got 5 days in NYC, one of the most exciting cities in the world. As a former New Yorker and frequent visitor, I’m super excited to share with you all my tips for the perfect 5 days in NYC itinerary. Whether you’re a first time visitor or not, this itinerary will inspire you to thoroughly explore the city that never sleeps!

Some basic facts about New York, other than it being a great place to spend 5 days, is that the island of Manhattan is 13.4 miles long and 2.3 miles wide with a population of over 1.6 million people. Yes, that’s a lot!

Actually, when you include the wider New York metropolitan area, it’s geographically smaller than Los Angeles in square miles, but is more populated. This makes New York the most populated city in the US, with Los Angeles being second.

Pro Tip: Things to do before you go:

• Bring 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. This won’t be cheap, but it will be worth it! NYC theaters are pretty intimate, so even if you have the less expensive seats far from the stage, you’ll be able to see the stage very well. Let 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 5 Days in NYC Itinerary

Itinerary for 5 Days in New York City

This itinerary will take you to all the top attractions and some of my best-loved gems. I even offer some of my favorite dining choices! I’ve organized it by Uptown, Midtown, Chelsea, Lower Manhattan, and Brooklyn so you’ll cover a whole lot of the island before you leave!

Feel free to change the order of things to suit your vacation needs, and most of all HAVE FUN! Here we go!

Day One of 5 Days in NYC: Uptown

The Upper West Side and Upper East Side flank Central Park in Uptown Manhattan. On the Upper West Side are the pre-war Beaux Arts buildings, Columbia University, cafes along Columbus Avenue, the American Museum of Natural History, hip boutiques, and famous markets like Zabar’s. On the Upper East Side are the elegant gilded age mansions, the Metropolitan Museum of Art on Museum Mile and neighborhoods filled with luxury brownstones, including the mayor’s home, Gracie Mansion, along the East River.

Day 1 Morning: The Met & Central Park

Breakfast Time Day 1:

• 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 & 81st Street
7 days a week from 9:30 – 5:30 and until 9 PM on Friday and Saturday
The Met is known as New York’s finest art museum and is among the world’s premiere museums. It’s literally a museum with something for everyone. I’ve 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, and wander around a bit.

Explore Central Park

Wander out of the museum and into the park. Central Park is 843 acres of public land designed for enjoyment. Visiting Central Park is essential to any New York visit. You’ll find signs with maps to help you, but you can also check here for all the best things to do in Central Park. You’ll find the famous Mall that you’ve seen in all your favorite movies, an actual castle, lakes, a carousel, playgrounds, a skating rink, more than 30 bridges, the Jackie O Reservoir, and a theater! Central Park will be very safe for you to visit, especially in the morning.

Day 1 Afternoon: Museum of Natural History or Central Park Zoo

Snack Time Day 1: Tavern on the Green
Central Park & 67the Street
11AM – 10PM Sun – Thurs, 11AM – 11PM Weekends
I really recommend a snack or drink, or both at Tavern on the Green while you’re nearby. It’s the iconic restaurant tucked into the park with cozy fireplaces, outdoor seating, and a beautiful old world bar. I know people think of this as just a tourist spot, but we always have such a nice time relaxing with a drink and some appetizers.

Visit the American Museum of Natural History

200 Central Park West & 79th St.
Daily 10AM – 5:30PM
The American Museum of Natural History, opened in 1877, has a collection of over 32 million species of plants, animals, rocks, and human remains. You’ve probably seen it in the Night at the Museum movies and should go for the planetarium, the dinosaur skeletons, the butterflies, and so much more. Do this if you’re up for another indoor museum experience in the afternoon.

Stroll in the Central Park Zoo & Tisch Children’s Zoo

Central Park & 64th Street
10AM – 4:30PM
The beloved Central Park Zoo is a 6.5 acre zoo in the southeast corner of the park. Look for the  penguins, snow leopards, monkeys, grizzly bears and a petting zoo. Don’t expect the animals to talk to you like in the Madagascar animated film, but you can expect to have a really good time strolling through the exhibits.  Do this if you are up for some more outdoor time.

Day 1 Evening: Times Square & Broadway Show

Dinner Time Day 1: Dos Caminos
1567 Broadway & 47th St.
Walk downtown toward the theater and duck into the Dos Caminos Restaurant at Times Square for a Mexican meal before your show. This is excellent and basic Mexican food at reasonable prices with a huge dining room, so you’ll always get seated.
The point here is that you can have a great meal and be very close to the theater. There’s nothing worse than rushing through a meal and looking for a taxi or running the streets of NYC to make it to your show on time.

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

See a Broadway Show/Times Square

If you’ve followed my instructions well, then you have your tickets and know just where you’re going. Look up at the lights, billboards, and the clock tower where the New Years Eve Ball drops, and take some pics. If it’s not too crazy, climb the steps above the Tix office for an overview of Times Square.

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 mess. I always try to walk east or west AWAY from Times Square before calling rideshare. Depending on where you’re staying, try to head in that direction before you call for your ride. If you’re taking the subway back, then head underground at Times Square and consult your app or ask an attendant for directions to your train.

Day Two of 5 Days in NYC: Midtown

Today is all about Midtown, the bustling heart of New York City, known for iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building, and Rockefeller Center. Head to 5th Avenue and enjoy the following sites. Some stops are very brief, while others may inspire you to linger a bit longer. The big event today will be sunset on the Empire State Building. 

Breakfast Time Day 2: Ellen’s Stardust Diner
650 Broadway & 51st St.
Yes, touristy, but also totally fun! This is a famous diner with singing waiters and waitresses. If you get there early enough, there shouldn’t be too long of a wait. The food is basic diner food, but the entertainment makes up for what the eggs are lacking!

Day 2 Morning: An Epic Stroll Down Fifth Avenue

Head to 5th Avenue and enjoy some of all of the following sites. Some stops are very brief, while others may inspire you to linger a bit longer:

Walk Through The Plaza Hotel

768 5th Ave. & 59th St.
Step inside to see the elegance of the lobby, the Palm Court restaurant, and the Champagne Bar. Head up to the book store for a view of the famous children’s character, Eloise’s legacy at the hotel.

Snap a Pic at the Pulitzer Fountain

Grand Army Plaza & Central Park South
In 1916, just before his death, the famous newspaper man, John Pulitzer, donated $50,000 for the creation of this fountain highlighting a bronze statue of Pomona, goddess of abundance.

Wander Around Rockefeller Center

5th Ave. & 50th St.
You’ll want to explore Rockefeller Center for a while. Plenty of photo ops at the Atlas statue, the ice skating rink, the fountain, 30 Rock, and don’t miss Radio City Music Hall. I’m suggesting that you skip the Top Of The Rock observation deck in favor of the Empire State observation deck.

Visit the New York City Public Library

42nd Street & 5th Ave. – 10AM – 8PM
The Stephen A. Schwarzman Building library is the main branch of the library system. Built in 1911, the library with its lions in front is known for its stunning architecture and historical collections. Don’t miss the Rose Reading Room and other magnificent features. There are free tours offered too! Check the library’s website here.

Take a Rest at Bryant Park

Behind the NYCPL is a beautiful, privately managed park that houses the library and a lovely cafe. This park is midtown’s treasure. You’ll always find something going on here, from a Winter Village to exercise classes, to picnics, concerts, and even juggling classes!

Look Up In Grand Central Station

89 East 42nd St. & Park Ave.
You’ve got to head to the main concourse of the one and only Grand Central Station! Since the early 1900’s this has been the hub for travel in and out of NYC. 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. While there are some errors in how the constellations are painted, and the ceiling has been restored a few times, what you’ll see is entirely magical! You can even find the secret whispering gallery which is one of the many free things to do in NYC.

See the Lobby of The Chrysler Building

405 Lexington Ave. & 42nd St.
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. 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.

Day 2 Afternoon: The Empire State Building

Snack Time Day 2: Angelina Paris Bryant Park – 1050 6th Ave. This is a family favorite from Paris to New York, the most incredible hot chocolate you’ve ever experienced! You might need to wait in line for a table, or just get a cup to go. It’s honestly amazing!

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. 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! It’s a gorgeous building with tons of history – and watching the sun set over the city as the lights come on, while you’re sipping champagne – come on! It’s great!

Get your sunset tix in advance here. The deck heights are 1050 feet at the 86th floor, 1250 feet at the 102nd floor! You’ll get the historic fun facts and see all the famous movie shots as you enter the building and take the high speed elevator ride. 

Dinner Time Day 2: Whitby Hotel Bar & Restaurant  – 18 W 56th St. 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 Three of 5 Days in NYC: Chelsea

This is your day in one of New York’s most happening west side neighborhoods! From the Hudson River to Hudson Street and from West 14th St. to Gansevoort St. is the Chelsea District. You’ll hear it referred to as Chelsea or The Meatpacking District, and it has become super popular for all its art galleries, boutiques, and special attractions by the river.

Day 3 Morning: The Whitney Museum

Breakfast Time Day 3: Chelsea Market – 75 9th Ave. Formerly the Nabisco (National Biscuit Company) factory renovated into a massive market hall with gourmet food shops and fun boutiques. Grab a coffee and pastry while you explore.

Visit the Whitney Museum

99 Gansevoort St. Daily
10:30 – 6PM, closed Tuesdays
The Whitney is the premiere American contemporary art museum of New York City. I love this museum a lot, not just for the exhibits, but because it is such a manageable size to take in and the location is so great. Be sure to step outside to the sculpture garden balcony and check out the views!

Day 3 Afternoon: The High Line & Little Island

Snack Time Day 3: Pier 57 Rooftop Park Head toward the water from the Whitney and next to Little Island you’ll find the Pier 57 food court with its great Rooftop Park. Grab some food and head up to the park for views and relaxing spots to picnic.

Check Out Little Island

Little Island is the funny looking and delightful man made island built on tulip looking pods in the Hudson River, along the Chelsea Pier 55. In an effort to revitalize the area, the park opened in 2021. Take a few minutes to walk around the 2.4 acre island, enjoy the art, the activities, and the views.

Walk The High Line

You must promise me that you’ll walk part, or all, of the High Line. Simply climb the steps from the Whitney up to walk along the public park called the High Line. It’s been created on the historic railroad tracks that used to deliver freight, mostly meat, above the streets of the Manhattan. From Gansevoort St. to 34th St. this trail is filled with views, gardens, and art installations. If you walk to the end, you’ll come upon the famous Vessel structure at Hudson Yards.

Day 3 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, maybe you want to see a comedy show? Or go to a few Speakeasies? Or explore more of the nightlife available in the city that literally never sleeps!

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. 

Day Four of 5 Days in NYC: Lower Manhattan

This is one of your downtown days in the historic and exciting neighborhoods of Lower Manhattan, featuring the one and only Statue of Liberty, the 911 Memorial Site, FiDi, Chinatown, Little Italy and the Village! Start early and put on great walking shoes, cuz this is a packed day that you’re going to absolutely love!

Day 4 Morning: Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

Breakfast Time Day 4: Russ & Daughters 179 East Houston St. This Jewish Deli is a New York City icon of the Lower East Side. Best breakfasts, bagels, lox, and more!

Ferry to the Statue of Liberty & the Ellis Island Museum

Seeing the Statue of Liberty is one of those things you’ve just gotta do at least once in your life! She’s historic and beautiful and it’s an opportunity to be on the water and see the NYC skyline. I think the best part might be stopping at Ellis Island for the immigration museum. Very inspiring and beautifully done. Here’s all the info:

Ferry Departure Location: Castle Clinton Fort Monument 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.
Return: Boats return to Battery Park from Liberty Island and Ellis Island every 25 minutes throughout the day.

• General Admission – Includes cruise to Liberty Island & Ellis Island, does not include entry to the inside of the Statue. WILL CALL WINDOW to pick up your tix is #6 at Castle Clinton
  $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!
Pro Tip: Sit outside in the wind while on the Ferry – It’s part of the whole experience!

Day 4 Afternoon: One World Trade Center/911 Memorial/Oculus

Greenwich St.
The 9/11 Memorial Museum is open Thursday – Monday 10AM – 5PM. There is no fee to enter the memorial site, but there is a fee for the museum.

After the boat ride, walk about 15 minutes to the 9/11 Memorial site.The 9/11 memorial is the location of the 2001 attack on the World Trade Towers. This gorgeous plaza, designed by Michael Arad and Peter Walker, 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 on 2/26/1993.

What you’ll see:

• Twin Reflecting Pools, with cascading waterfalls surrounded by the names of 9/11 victims etched in bronze.
• The Survivor Tree, A Callery Pear tree that was damaged during the 9/11 terror attacks and was saved and restored to later be replanted at the site.
• One World Trade Center, known as the Freedom Tower, which is the rebuilt World Trade Center also at the site.
• The Oculus, the huge shopping and transportation hub designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, resembling a dove leaving a child’s hands.  

Pro Tip: Heads up that there’s a lot to absorb here and you may want to take your time as it can be an emotional experience. I find the experience very moving each time I go.

See The New York Stock Exchange & The Fearless Girl

Broad St. and Wall St.
Stand next to the Fearless Girl Statue in front of the world famous New York Stock Exchange Building. At 9:30 AM on weekdays, you can hear the opening bell. You’re not allowed inside, but can admire the famous place that makes the world’s money go ‘round!

The 4 foot Fearless Girl statue (2017) in front of the building,  honors International Women’s Day. She was originally staring down the nose of the Charging Bull statue, as a symbol of women’s empowerment. However, that was a bit upsetting for the Bull artist, so she was relocated to the stock exchange building. 

Photo Ops at The Charging Bull Statue

Bowling Green Park, and  Morris St.
The Bull, 1989, symbolizes the recovery from the 1987 stock market crash. The artist just plopped the 7000 pound bronze sculpture in front of the Stock Exchange building next to the Christmas tree. However, members of the stock exchange insisted the Bull be impounded. When enough New Yorkers complained, the Bull was placed at Bowling Green Park.

Pro Tip: No need to wait in line for photos and a chance to rub him for good luck. Just take your photos from the side. 

Visit the Churchyard at Trinity Church

Broadway & Wall St.
As you’re in the neighborhood, wander by Trinity Church, the historic Episcopal Church built in 1839. It’s now a National Historic Monument as well as a functioning church. Many famous people are buried in its churchyard, including Alexander Hamilton and his wife Elizabeth Schuyler.

Snack Time Day 4:

• Little Italy – Mulberry St. Home to New York’s Italian culture. You won’t be able to resist the  amazing restaurants and bakeries, Mulberry Street is known for its huge San Genarro Festival in September and has been the setting of many movies.
• Chinatown – Mott St. between Bleecker St. and Chatham Square  or Canal St. You can easily wander from Little Italy into Chinatown for more food choices! NYC Chinatown is famous for being one of the largest Chinese culture neighborhoods in the world. It’s always festive and busy. You’ll have to avoid the street vendors trying to sell you knock off purses and stuff, but you’ll find great noodles, teas, boutiques, and souvenir shops. 

Day 4 Evening: Greenwich Village

Greenwich Village is home to New York University, hip cafes, bars, and shops, and is where many famous artists like Bob Dylan and Jackson Pollack used to live. Explore the historic Federal style homes from the 1800’s and the former horse stables. 

Walk to the iconic Washington Square Park arch built in 1892.  The crazy history is that over 20,000 people were buried in this field In the 1790’s which was also the site of public executions! Now, it’s a wild scene for people to hang out, make music, sell wares, and protest.

Look for the oldest tree in NYC, 300 years old,  in the northwest corner of the park known as the Hangman’s Elm.

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

Dinner Time Day 4:

• Lure Fishbar – 142 Mercer St. This is my favorite NYC sushi restaurant in a great ship atmosphere.
• 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!

Up for another hidden Speakeasy after dinner?
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 Five of 5 Days in NYC: Tribeca & Brooklyn & SoHo

On your final day of this trip, I’m helping you to explore a little more of downtown and taking you across the illustrious Brooklyn Bridge. So exciting! Tribeca is a great place to explore more of if you have time!

Day 5 Morning: Walk The Brooklyn Bridge

Breakfast Time Day 5: Tribeca – Bubby’s 120 Hudson St. This is the hot spot of Tribeca! American food, locally sourced, and hip and historic.

Walk The Brooklyn Bridge

Centre St & City Hall
The Brooklyn Bridge opened in 1886 as the longest suspension bridge in the world at the time. It crosses the East River and links Manhattan to Brooklyn. About 145,000 vehicles and about 30,000 people every day cross the bridge! That’s a lot of traffic for just a 1.3 mile bridge!

You’ll find the pedestrian entrance to the Brooklyn Bridge from the Manhattan side of the river, at Centre Street right across from City Hall.  As you walk across, marvel at the huge towers and arches. Read the plaques at the viewing areas to learn more about the bridge’s history and take in the city skyline.

Explore DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass)

DUMBO is on the Brooklyn side as you exit the bridge. You’ll see a sign that says DUMBO 648 ft leading you down a path an steps onto Washington Street. You’ll see many folks taking photos on the cobblestone street underneath the bridge.

See Jane’s Carousel in Brooklyn Bridge Park

Continue to walk by  the water to the Brooklyn Bridge Park where you’ll find the famous Jane’s Carousel. This carousel was built in 1922 in Ohio and then was fully restored by Jane Walentas in her DUMBO studio beginning in 1984. It was later installed at the Brooklyn Bridge Park location in 2011. This sweet ride only costs $2! Along the park you’ll see the upscale converted factory/shopping mall with restaurants, and bathrooms!

Day 5 Afternoon: Williamsburg

Williamsburg is the chic Brooklyn neighborhood with lots of street art, hip restaurants, boutiques, and great waterfront views.

Take the Ferry to Williamsburg

Continue to walk along the water to the DUMBO Fulton Ferry Stop to catch the East River Ferry to the North Williamsburg stop. Look for the famous River Restaurant that sits under the bridge. When you exit the boat at North Williamsburg, meander through lovely Williamsburg.

Pro Tip: Load the ferry app onto your phone and look for the Turquoise color ferry signs that say ER (East River) North Williamsburg on them.

Snack Time Day 5: Bar Blondeau/Wythe Hotel 80 Wythe Ave. on the 6th floor. I highly recommend making your way to Bar Blondeau rooftop restaurant at the Wythe Hotel. Have a drink and some appetizers while you enjoy the views.

Day 5 Evening: SoHo

Wrap up your final NYC day in SoHo for dinner and strolling. The SoHo (South of Houston) neighborhood is famous for its gorgeous cast iron buildings, historic cobblestone streets, and chic and trendy boutiques and restaurants. 

Subway from Williamsburg to SoHo, walk to the Lorimer or Bedford subway station to head to Manhattan. Take the L train to 14th St. and transfer to the 6 Train to Spring St. in SoHo.

Dinner Time Day 5:

• Jack’s wife Freda 226 Lafayette St. A lively bistro with American-Mediterranean cuisine. The menu reflects the owners’ Israeli and South African heritage. There are several locations. I love the SoHo one!
• The Dutch 131 Sullivan St. An American neighborhood restaurant in a cozy atmosphere with outstanding food.

Where to stay in NYC

I’ve done the hotel research for you! If you’re interested in the Safest Places To Stay in NYC, I’ve checked out tons of smaller, boutique style hotels. There are plenty of choices throughout the city. Here are a few suggestions for budget, mid-range, and luxury hotels.  They all have 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 5 days?

Absolutely! I actually feel like a 5 day visit can be very satisfying and not feel too rushed. I’ve created itineraries for 1 day in NYC, 2 days in NYC, 3 days in NYC, and 4 days in NYC, so 5 days feels heavenly! With 5 days you can pick and choose a highlight for each day and not feel overwhelmed with cramming in too many attractions.

What to pack for 5 days in New York?

Obviously, the time of year and weather will have a huge impact on what to bring, so here’s an outline for some basics in a rainy or cold climate in the Winter/Spring and a warm and sunny visit in the Summer/Fall. Remember that New Yorkers are not fashion models and primarily dress for comfort and convenience. You’re likely to leave your hotel in the morning and not return again until bedtime, so one outfit a 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 can feel overwhelming at first, but it’s actually pretty easy to get around and to navigate.

Walking Around NYC
Walking is the best way to get around NYC. It’s fun, safe, and you’ll see and experience so much. See how much of the 13.4 miles of Manhattan you cover on your trip!

NYC By Subway & Bus
Subways are the most convenient way to get around NYC.

Pro Tip: With your Maps/GPS App on your phone, use the “transit” view to find exactly where the closest subway station is and which train to take to your destination. I prefer this method.

Pro Tip:  Download the official MY MTA App (Metropolitan Transit Authority) on your phone.  You’ll find maps and schedules for all the subways, bus, and rail systems.

Pro Tip: Make sure you have your credit card loaded on your phone in your “wallet.” When you open that card, simply TAP the OMNY (One Metro New York) screen at the turnstile of the subway stop and it charges you. Just like that!

• 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.

NYC By Uber, Lyft, Revel, or Taxi
Ride share apps are a huge help in getting around NYC. More expensive by yourself, but with a group of people it’s often more cost effective than paying for separate subway fares.

Pro Tip:  Load all the apps onto your phone in advance. Check prices for Uber, Lyft, and Revel to compare. Prices will vary a lot at different times of the day. Taxis are also available everywhere, but you have to hail one from the curb. If the cab light is on that means it’s available. There’s a Curb App available for download, but I’ve been told the cabs don’t come as quickly as the other ride shares do.

NYC By Ferry
The NYC Ferries travel from Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island along the East River and Hudson River. It’s really great to see the city views from the water! 

Pro Tip: If you plan to do some ferrying, then download the NYC Ferry App by Hornblower onto your phone. You can buy ferry tix on your phone and get a QR code to be scanned as you board the boat.

Best Time To Go To New York City

Any time of year in NY is a blast! But here are some weather tips:

June through September is a very popular time to visit NYC. Be aware that the middle of the summer can get pretty hot on the city streets!

Fall is perfect with temps in the 60’s and 70’s. The crowds have dwindled, and the sun is still shining, the leaves are turning, and the air is crisp. 

November and December are another great season to visit NYC. The holidays add a festive atmosphere to the city. Enjoy all the winter activities, attractions, and of course, the New Year’s Eve extravaganza! 

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

February and March are also fun because it’s snowy, not very busy, and the prices are better! Bundle up with layers, and be prepared with umbrellas and all-weather shoes!

Are you psyched for your 5 days in NYC?

In a nutshell…

After five unforgettable days exploring the best of New York City, you’ll feel energized and inspired! From the iconic landmarks of Uptown and Midtown to the vibrant energy of Chelsea and Lower Manhattan, and the stunning views from the Brooklyn Bridge to DUMBO, you’ve grabbed a bite of the Big Apple! Add in the inspiring history of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, and this whirlwind adventure becomes a story to cherish.

Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, NYC always has more to offer, so don’t be surprised if you’re already planning your next trip before you leave!

xx,
Carrie