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All Articles 5 perfect days in New York City

5 perfect days in New York City

Laura Begley Bloom
By Laura Begley BloomNov 7, 2024 15 minutes read
People sitting on benches next to lake where people are in canoes, plus buildings in distance
Tourists walking by lake in Central Park in New York.
Image: Brittany Petronella/Courtesy of NYC & Company

More than 60 million people visit New York City every year, and a huge percentage of them only hit the big sites—Times Square, the Empire State Building, etc. I get it: They’re iconic. But as someone who has lived in this city for more than 30 years, I’m here to tell you that you’re missing out if you don’t mix in some off-the-beaten path locations. Luckily, five days gives you plenty of time to do just that.

I’ve crafted a five-day itinerary that will give you a deep dive into Manhattan to check out the landmarks, along with some of my favorite secret finds. Then, I’ll take you across the Brooklyn Bridge to experience Brooklyn’s cool factor and historic charms. And on our last day, we’ll explore the rich culture—and the global food—of Queens. Along the way, I’ve handpicked top-rated spots from Tripadvisor to make sure your visit is totally unforgettable.

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DAY ONE

Lots of people sitting by or walking around Washington Square Park Arch
Washington Square Park in Manhattan.
Image: Andria Patino/Getty Images

MORNING: Start your day like a local

On this five-day itinerary, you’re going to take in some of the big showstoppers, but I suggest starting small—along the narrow, winding streets of the West Village, a quaint residential neighborhood. The Village is known for its bohemian history and artsy vibe. Wander through its tree-lined streets to Washington Square Park, a great spot for people-watching, listening to street musicians, and snapping photos under the giant arch (which frames a view of the Empire State Building). Grab a bite at one of my go-to breakfast spots: La Bonbonniere, a greasy spoon that’s been around forever and is known for its challah French toast and its heavenly pancakes (choose from banana, blueberry, or chocolate chip—or get a mix). A heads up: It’s cash only.

Then, make your way west toward the Hudson River to Gansevoort Street, where you’ll find one of the main entrances to the High Line, an elevated park built on an old rail line. Stroll along and enjoy the architecture, the public art installations, and the lush greenery. The best viewpoint is at 17th Street, which looks out at the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

If you get hungry along the walk, you can pop into Chelsea Market at 15th Street for a snack. This former biscuit factory now has a massive food hall with everything from fresh baked treats (Sarabeth’s) to artisanal cheese (Saxelby Cheesemongers) to tacos (Los Tacos N°1).

Travelers say: “If you are ever down horrendous and in need of some inspiration, I recommend a walk on the High Line. Unless it’s a weekend at peak hour as it gets PACKED. You will be like Mike Alstott having to hit the A-gap on a 3rd and 1. Just so many human beings. Built on an old elevated rail line, you can feel the blend between the old-school-transcontinental railroad and the modern design. The architects nailed it.” —@Johnny Novo

AFTERNOON: Head to the Edge

Continue north along the High Line until you reach Hudson Yards, a modern development with lots of lunch options. The new outpost of the Lower East Side’s Russ & Daughters is a must-visit (and the line is much shorter here). This New York institution is the place for Jewish “appetizing” (as it’s called). Order the smoked fish or the savory matzo ball soup.

Hudson Yards also has two jaw-dropping lookouts. There’s The Vessel, a striking honeycomb-like structure, but I’m partial to The Edge, the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere. It’s an experience not to be missed, with angled glass walls providing thrilling, unobstructed views from its vantage point 100-plus floors in the air.

NYC TOUR OPTIONS

  • On this high-flying adventure, you’ll climb the world’s highest building, scaling the outside of a skyscraper more than 1,200 feet above the ground.
  • Have a mind-bending multi-sensory immersive experience at Summit One Vanderbilt, a three-level space that takes the “observation deck” concept to entirely new heights with art installations, a room full of floating silver balloons, glass boxes cantilevered over the street, and the world’s largest glass-bottom external elevator (no stilettos or steel-toed boots allowed—obviously!).
  • Soar above Manhattan on this popular New York Helicopter Tour—it’s worth the price.

EVENING: The jazz era in Harlem

For dinner, head uptown to Harlem, an area known for its soul food and rich history of Black culture. Sylvia’s—known as the “Queen of Soul Food”—is a local standby for fried chicken, collard greens, and cornbread. Or go high end at Marcus Samuelsson’s Red Rooster, a sultry, speakeasy-style restaurant that feels like a throwback to another era. Legend has it that former President Barack Obama is a huge fan of the short ribs. If they’re on the menu, order them.

After dinner, end things on a high note. This neighborhood has been a center of jazz since the Harlem Renaissance in the 1920s, and venues like the Apollo Theater or smaller clubs like Minton’s Playhouse present live music that captures the spirit of this creative, trailblazing area.

DAY TWO

View overlooking people taking photos at the Top of the Rock over buildings and Central Park
Deck at the Top of the Rock.
Image: Management/Tripadvisor

MORNING: The crossroads of the world

Begin your day with a New York breakfast favorite: a bagel. Black Seed Bagels has locations all over town including Rockefeller Center. The bagels are hand-rolled and finished off in a wood-fired oven. Order yours with the beet-cured lox and a schmear of horseradish cream cheese. While you’re at Rockefeller Center, check out Top of the Rock, a 70-foot-high observation deck with 360-degree skyline views. Get there when it opens at 9 a.m.—the light is gorgeous, and it’s usually pretty empty.

From Rockefeller Center, it’s a quick stroll to Times Square, aka the “Crossroads of the World.” In the early hours, it’s as calm as it gets. (I used to work at a company based in Times Square, and while most New Yorkers avoid this touristy spot, I loved having the place practically to myself in the morning.) Have a seat on the stairs next to the TKTS Booth to take in all. This booth, incidentally, sells discounted same-day Broadway tickets. If you want to scrap your plans tonight and see a show, the booth opens at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday (for matinee performances) and at 3 p.m. the rest of the week (evening performances).

NYC TV TOUR OPTIONS

  • On the Famous TV and Film Locations Guided Tour, a NYC actor will lead you around town to scope out famous scenes from shows including Friends, Girls, and Seinfeld.
  • Calling all fans of The Gilded Age: You’ll love the Gilded Age Mansions Tour, where you’ll learn about scandals, murder, romance, and the architecture of some of the city’s most spectacular homes.
  • This one’s for Sopranos buffs. Former New York Police Department officers lead the New York City Mafia and Local Food Tour and will tell you all about the history of the mob—and take you to a notorious red sauce joint that appeared in the show.

AFTERNOON: Central Park

For lunch, make your way north to Sarabeth’s Central Park South, which is best known for its breakfast and brunch (owner Sarabeth Levine got famous for her orange apricot marmalade, made from a 200-year-old family recipe). But lunch here is great, too. Reviewers rave about the seafood Cobb salad, piled high with Maine lobster, crab, shrimp, avocado, bacon, and more.

After lunch, head across the street to Central Park for a midday green escape. Rent a bike or simply meander along the park’s many paths, visiting attractions like the Bethesda Fountain, the Central Park Zoo, and Strawberry Fields, a memorial to legendary musician John Lennon.

Travelers say: “I’ve been [to Central Park] a few times on different trips over from London & each time I’ve seen something different, it’s huge! Years ago we did the zoo & ice rink, this time I visited Strawberry fields as I was with a Beatles fan. It was beautiful… the imagine mosaic, the buskers singing Beatles songs, sitting in the sun we sat for a couple of hours listening. Was free & actually one of my favourite highlights of my trip” —@claire

EVENING: Noodles and a nightcap

For dinner, head to the East Village, a neighborhood known for its tattooed residents and eclectic mix of restaurants and bars. I lived here my first eight years in New York City, so it’s hard to choose a favorite place to eat, but you can’t go wrong with Momofuku Noodle Bar’s original location in the East Village. This is where celebrity chef David Chang made his name with his deliciously pork-heavy menu and creative approach to ramen. I love to grab a table at the bar and order the classics (smoky ramen, bao buns), plus whatever’s on special.

After dinner, grab a drink at Death & Co., a speakeasy that helped propel the craft cocktail movement into orbit and has been on the list of The World’s 50 Best Bars for many years running. It’s now got locations around the country, but this is the OG. The menu changes twice a year, but I suggest going rogue: Let the mixologists whip up a personalized creation based on your flavor profile.

DAY THREE

Overhead shot of dim sum dishes like dumplings
Dim sum at Golden Unicorn Restaurant.
Image: Management/Tripadvisor

MORNING: A morning in FiDi

We’re going to be squeezing in a lot today, so get up early and pop into Leo’s, a breakfast spot started by a former Merrill Lynch exec, who left his job because he decided the Financial District needed a good bagel joint. Switch up your bagel order and try a classic NYC breakfast bite: a BEC (bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich). Get it to go.

Breakfast in hand, you can stroll past the Charging Bull statue en route to Battery Park. Here, hop on the ferry to the Statue of Liberty (you won’t have time to do Ellis Island, too—put that on your list for next time.) Avoid long lines at the Statue of Liberty by booking your tickets beforehand—and know that if you want to go all the way up to the crown, those tickets sell out far in advance. After your visit to Lady Liberty, spend some time at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, where you can pay respects and learn about a pivotal moment in recent history.

Travelers say: “[The 9/11 Memorial & Museum] is an amazing attraction. It's very informative and a very emotional and also celebratory memorial for all the emergency workers & civilians who tragically lost their lives because of fanatical terrorists. Well worth the entrance fee & I would also advise the headsets at an extra $10.” —@Water-fairy-mick

AFTERNOON: Sample a deli classic

For lunch today, we’re hitting up a Lower East Side icon: Katz’s Deli. If you ever watched the movie When Harry Met Sally, the hilarious “I’ll have what she’s having!” scene was filmed here. The restaurant is jam packed (and confusing), but the line moves fast. Order a pastrami sandwich, pickled tomatoes, and an egg cream, an old-fashioned drink that’s a mix of seltzer, milk, and chocolate syrup (no eggs), and thank me later.

After lunch, stroll down to the Tenement Museum, where you’ll get a glimpse into the lives of New York’s early immigrant population. The museum offers guided tours of restored apartments that show what life was like in the 19th and early 20th centuries.

MANHATTAN FOOD TOUR OPTIONS

  • Get a taste of flavors from around the globe on this food tour: A historian will take you around Chinatown and Little Italy, visiting small family-owned businesses.
  • On this walking tour around Greenwich Village, you’ll hear about the neighborhood’s bohemian history and sample some only-in-New-York eats.
  • Learn about the Lower East Side’s past—from Eastern European immigrants to punk rockers—and enjoy knishes, bialies, and more on this NYC Lower East Side Walking and Food Tour.

EVENING: Head back in time

Cap off your Manhattan adventure in Chinatown, which has a mix of Asian cultures—from Cantonese to Fujianese to Vietnamese. This neighborhood put down its roots in the late 1880s—and a visit here feels like a walk through the past. One tip: Dim sum is a breakfast food, but you can still get it in the evening. The lines are usually long at the Instagram-famous Nom Wah Tea Parlor, so I suggest the more traditional Golden Unicorn, where the dishes are served from rolling carts. Be sure to try the har gao (shrimp dumplings), the cheung fun (a steamed rice roll), and—for adventurous eaters—the fung jao (chicken feet). For dessert, head to Mai Lai Wah Bakery and sample the sugar-crusted pineapple bun, which has no pineapple but looks like a pineapple. Just trust me on this one.

DAY FOUR

People on or standing near covered carousel
Jane’s Carousel in Dumbo.
Image: Julienne Schaer/NYC & Company

MORNING: Brooklyn, here we come

Kick off your day with a scenic walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. Early morning is the best time to enjoy this landmark without the crowds and capture stunning photos of the Manhattan skyline. Once you’ve crossed the bridge, head to the former industrial neighborhood of DUMBO (“down under the Manhattan Bridge overpass”). Grab breakfast at the Time Out Market, where there are several options; I recommend Clinton Street Bakery’s bottomless brunch, served every day.

After breakfast, head to the intersection of Washington Street and Water Street for one of the world’s most Instagrammed locations: the DUMBO Manhattan Bridge view framing the Empire State Building in the distance. It gets packed as the day goes on, so this is your best chance for getting a crowd-free shot that will light up your feed. Then take a ride on Jane’s Carousel, a restored 1922 merry-go-round located in Brooklyn Bridge Park with stunning views of the city. (This pretty spot was also captured in the Oscar-nominated movie Past Lives.)

Travelers say: “This is a beautiful old carousel and is a purely innocent way to have fun and be a child again. Grab an ice cream or play in the park afterwards and just enjoy the atmosphere.” —@Ben P

AFTERNOON: In the Heights

Now let’s head to the tree-lined streets of Brooklyn Heights, which was established in the early 1800s and was (fun fact) the first suburb in the U.S. For lunch, have a bite at Al Badawi, a Palestinian spot recognized by Michelin for its flatbread with melted cheese and pistachios.

From Al Badawi, it’s a 15-minute stroll (or five-minute taxi) to the Promenade (aka the Esplanade), a pedestrian walkway just off Montague Street. But it might take a bit longer to get there with all the architectural eye candy along the way, from the colorful townhouses and brownstones along Joralemon Street to the pretty carriage houses on Hunts Lane and College Place. Check out the Federal-style wooden house at 24 Middagh—built in 1824, it’s considered the oldest house in the neighborhood. You’ll also pass through the so-called “fruit bowl” of Brooklyn—Cranberry, Orange, and Pineapple Streets. You’ll finally reach the Promenade, which is cantilevered over the Brooklyn Queens Expressway, but you’d never know there are cars below—you’ll be too distracted by the bang-on views of Downtown Manhattan, the East River, and the Brooklyn Bridge and, yes, that lady, the Statue of Liberty.

If you’re into cuddling with cute kitties, a fun stop near the Promenade is the Brooklyn Cat Cafe on Montague Street. (If you fall in love, you can also adopt a cat. Talk about the ultimate New York City souvenir.)

BROOKLYN TOUR OPTIONS

  • The guides on this small-group bicycle tour will customize the trip based on what you and the other guests want to see. Bike through Prospect Park, buzz around Cobble Hill, or cool off at a brewpub along the way.
  • Let someone else take the photos—a professional photographer—on this private tour of SoHo and Brooklyn.
  • Try New American, Middle Eastern, and Italian food—and learn about Brooklyn history—as you eat and drink your way through the borough on a food tour.

EVENING: Dinner with a view

As the afternoon turns to evening, catch the East River Ferry from DUMBO to Williamsburg, which will give you an affordable waterfront tour. Williamsburg—a former industrial area—has been transformed into one of the city’s trendiest neighborhoods with tons of cutting-edge restaurants and bars, plus great shopping along Bedford Avenue and N. 6th Street. My favorite shop in the neighborhood is Artists & Fleas on N. 7th Street. It’s open on weekends and sells vintage clothes and finds from local makers (candles, jewelry, pottery—you get the idea).

For dinner with panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, you’ve got several options, but I’m a fan of Westlight, the 22nd floor rooftop bar at The William Vale hotel, where I have spent several birthdays and love to take family and friends when they’re visiting. It’s got inventive cocktails and an equally exciting menu from chef Andrew Carmellini (don’t miss the charred octopus skewers). It’s not cheap, but it’s worth it for the views alone.

DAY FIVE

Exterior of white building with neon-pink "Museum of Moving Image" lettering
Entrance to the Museum of the Moving Image.
Image: songx/Tripadvisor

MORNING: Dive into the many cultures of Queens

Queens can surprise even those living a dozen subway stops away. Known for its incredible diversity, it’s a place where you can explore a world of cultures within just a few blocks. Begin your day in Astoria, a neighborhood that is known for its strong Greek heritage. For breakfast, head to To Laiko, which describes itself as a “little coffee shop” and is known for its frappé (a frothy coffee creation) and traditional bites like koulouri (Greece’s sesame-crusted take on a bagel).

Check out the Museum of the Moving Image, which is dedicated to the art and history of film, television, and digital media. With interactive exhibits and screenings, it’s a must-visit for film buffs. And a heads up for Muppets fans: The Jim Henson Exhibition showcases the work of this innovative artist and has 47 puppets on display—including Kermit the Frog, Big Bird, and Elmo.

After your museum visit, wander through Astoria’s tree-lined streets and make your way to Astoria Park, located along the East River. This park has staggering views of the Manhattan skyline and Hell Gate Bridge (which passes over a dangerous channel in the East River).

Travelers say: “This is a gem of a park that borders Queens and the East River. We went while visiting from out of state on a cool spring evening after dinner. Great views of Manhattan as the sun was setting! Park has lots of trees, a large public pool, and seems to be a great neighborhood gathering spot.” —@livigirl19

AFTERNOON: Explore Flushing’s bustling Chinatown

Manhattan’s Chinatown isn’t the only game in town. Fun fact: New York City has nine Chinatowns, including one in Flushing. In Manhattan, you’ll mostly find Szechuan and Cantonese food. Flushing is a showcase for regional Chinese cuisine, plus Korean, Indian, and more. And while you’ll still discover mom-and-pop stalls hidden down alleyways, the neighborhood also has a new breed of glitzy malls with the kind of restaurants and shops that you’d find in Asia. For lunch, head to the food court at the New World Mall. My rec: the savory soup dumplings at Pan Bao 66. Get them pan-fried—experts tell me they come as close as possible to what you’d have in Shanghai.

After lunch, explore the buzzing streets that make Flushing feel like a mini Hong Kong. The Tangram Mall is fun to check out, with shops selling everything from Chinese teas to cult Korean beauty products.

QUEENS FOOD TOUR OPTIONS

EVENING: Eat your way through Jackson Heights

Hope you saved room for dinner. Hop on the 7 train, and in just a couple stops you’ll be in Jackson Heights, one of the best food destinations in New York City. This neighborhood has bites from nearly every corner of the globe represented—Indian, Tibetan, Mexican, and more.

Start your culinary adventure at Birria-Landia, a taco truck on Roosevelt Avenue opened by two brothers from Puebla, Mexico. It’s become a local favorite for the Tijuana-style birria (a marinated beef). There are only four things on the menu, and I recommend ordering everything. But if you have to choose, get the tacos and an extra helping of the consome, a rich, meaty dipping sauce. The line might be long, but it’s worth every minute of the wait.

After, take a stroll down 37th Avenue, which is lined with shops selling everything from Indian spices to Tibetan jewelry. Wrap up your evening with a stop at Maharaja Sweets, an Indian candy store. Order the sandesh (a combo of paneer cheese, sugar, and cardamom powder), and your night will be complete.

Where to stay in NYC for five days

Midtown: This neighborhood at the heart of Manhattan is ideal for first-timers wanting to be close to Times Square, Broadway theaters, and Central Park. The area is home to countless hotels. The Plaza (made famous by the Eloise book series) offers timeless luxury right at the corner of 5th Avenue and Central Park South. The nearby Aman New York has a three-story spa, a 65-foot indoor swimming pool, and a jazz club that’s open to the public. 1 Hotel Central Park is an eco-friendly option that brings a touch of nature into the city with its organic materials and green ethos. And if you’re on a budget, Yotel New York is known for its tech-savvy approach and rooftop terrace (though the rooms are tiny).

Lower East Side: The Lower East Side’s rich history and great food scene are best experienced by staying in the heart of it all. Hotel Indigo Lower East Side has a rooftop pool and bar, stunning views, and a location that puts you steps away from legendary eateries like Katz’s. The new Nine Orchard is a chic opening in an old bank.

Lower Manhattan: This area is ideal for travelers interested in checking out the Financial District and the 9/11 Memorial—it’s also got easy access to the Statue of Liberty. The Beekman, a Thompson Hotel combines old-world glam with contemporary style, while the Conrad New York Downtown has sleek, all-suite accommodations.

Harlem: After exploring the jazz and soul food scene in Harlem, a stay in this culturally rich neighborhood can extend the experience. Aloft Harlem offers a stylish stay close to landmarks like the Apollo Theater.

Brooklyn: Set right on the East River right between DUMBO and Brooklyn Heights, 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge has killer views of the Manhattan skyline and a nature-inspired vibe with lots of plants. In Williamsburg, The Hoxton Hotel is a British import, and though the rooms are on the small side, the price is right; don’t miss the rooftop Israeli restaurant, Laser Wolf.

Laura Begley Bloom
Laura Begley Bloom is a travel expert and content strategist who writes for a wide range of magazines and websites and appears regularly on television outlets ranging from the Weather Channel to CNN. Journalism is part of Laura's heritage. Her great great grandfather was a Civil War correspondent for the Chicago Tribune. You can learn more about Laura on laurabegleybloom.com.