How to Spend 3 Days in New York City (A 3-Day NYC Itinerary)

New York City is a place like no other — fast-paced, energetic, and packed with iconic landmarks, world-class dining, and unforgettable experiences. Having lived there for 6 years, I can tell you it’s a truly magical place! If you’re planning to spend 3 days in New York City, keep reading for the ultimate guide of what to see & do on your trip.

Are 3 days in New York City enough? Well, you could easily spend weeks here and still have a lot left to see! But yes, you can certainly have an amazing trip and see all the major highlights even with just 3 days in New York.

Whether this is your first time in the Big Apple or you just want to make the most of your trip, this 3 day itinerary for New York City will cover all the must-see highlights, top attractions, and take you through Manhattan & Brooklyn. Plus, I’ve tried to keep this itinerary budget-friendly, so you can enjoy the Big Apple even on a budget!

Of course, not everyone is going to love everything on this itinerary – that’s why I’ve tried to keep this itinerary as flexible as possible. You can use this 3 day NYC itinerary as-is or use it as inspiration to create your own itinerary. Feel free to spend more time in one neighborhood, skip an activity, or take each day a little slower!

All of the activities in each day are geographically clustered to decrease walking/transportation times as much as possible (although fair warning – you will be doing quite a bit of walking in NYC no matter what!). I’ve also included alternate options for those who want to swap out certain activities.

No matter how you choose to explore, your 3 days in New York City will be packed with incredible experiences!

If you’re looking the top iconic places to eat in NYC, check out this post featuring 30 of the best cheap eats in NYC!

Please note that this post is NOT sponsored and I have not received any monetary compensation for including any of the listings. These are genuinely my favorite places & experiences in NYC!

Download the Free 3-Day New York City Itinerary

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The PDF contains both a color copy as well as a black & white copy that is printer-friendly!

Map of New York City

Borough map of New York City. Image source + credit: NYC.gov

• New York City is made up of 5 boroughs – Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx, and Staten Island
  
  
• If you only have 3 days in New York City or you’re a first-time visitor, I would recommend picking only 2 boroughs to explore (Manhattan & Brooklyn are usually what most people pick)
  
  
• If you have time (or on your next trip!), check out the different boroughs since they all have their own unique history and culture that is worth seeing!
  
  
• Manhattan is on a “grid system” – meaning that streets & avenues form a rectangular “grid” with streets running east-west and avenues running north-south. Check out the video above for a great 5-minute explanation of the grid system and the neighborhoods of NYC!

How to Get To New York City

Grand Central Terminal in New York City

Traveling By Air

This is my preferred way to get to New York City, especially if you are going to be staying in Manhattan during your 3 days in New York City. NYC airports have been renovated & improved in the past few years, so they’re much better than they used to be!

• JFK International Airport (JFK) – Best for international travelers. You can take the JFK AirTrain to the Jamaica stop in Queens, then take the “E” subway line into Manhattan
  
  
• LaGuardia Airport (LGA) – Closer to Manhattan, mainly domestic flights. Take an MTA bus or taxi into Manhattan. I believe the airport also has a free shuttle that will take you to the subway that you can take into Manhattan
  
  
• Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) – Another international option, but this one is in New Jersey and not New York. You can take the AirTrain & NJ Transit to Penn Station in Manhattan

Traveling By Train

• Amtrak – Has routes from major cities such as Boston, Washington DC, and Philadelphia that feed into Penn Station or Grand Central – both in Manhattan
  
  
• NJ Transit & Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) – Great for regional travelers coming from New Jersey or Long Island. Some tourists also choose to drive and stay in a hotel within NJ or Long Island, then take the NJ Transit or LIRR into Manhattan for sightseeing

Traveling By Bus

This is the best budget-friendly option of getting into Manhattan. Most drop off in midtown Manhattan – usually the Port Authority Bus Terminal.

• Greyhound, Megabus, and BoltBus offer budget-friendly travel from cities like Boston, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C.

Traveling By Car (Not Recommended)

I do not recommend this option. Driving into Manhattan can get expensive with tolls and parking fees. Not to mention that traffic can be a nightmare and people are not the friendliest of drivers here!

If you have to drive, I recommend staying in New Jersey, Westchester, or Long Island and taking one of the commuter trains/public transportation (NJ Transit, Metro North, or LIRR respectively) into Manhattan for sightseeing.

Getting Around New York City

NYC Subway station

Getting Around by Subway (Best Option!)

• The MTA subway runs 24/7 and is the fastest way to get around Manhattan! It also connects Manhattan to all 5 boroughs
• It is also a budget-friendly option – each one-way subway ride is currently $2.90 no matter how far/long you ride the subway!
• You can use a MetroCard or use the OMNY tap-and-go payment system

Getting Around by MTA Buses

• Good for short trips, but slower due to traffic
• Great for places that the subway doesn’t access especially on the east & west sides of Manhattan and certain places in the other boroughs
• MetroCards & OMNY work on buses too, and it’s the same fare as the subway!

Getting Around by Commuter Trains

• If you are staying in New Jersey, Long Island, or Westchester you can take NJ Transit, LIRR, or Metro-North commuter trains, respectively, to get into Manhattan
• This may be a cheaper option if hotels within NYC are pricey during your travel time

Getting Around by Ferry

I highly recommend this for all travelers! I love NYC’s ferry system and it’s such an affordable way to see the city and explore the different boroughs.

• Staten Island Ferry – Free ride with great Statue of Liberty views
• NYC Ferry – Affordable rides between Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens
• I talk about both of these ferries and how to get around the NYC waterways below!

Getting Around by Taxi

• Yellow cabs, Uber, & Lyft are convenient but can be expensive
• Good for late-night travel or areas with no subway access
• Be cautious of fare hikes especially during rush hour

Getting Around by Walking

• NYC is one of the most walkable cities, so wear comfortable shoes and explore on foot!
• Be careful about walking in certain areas at night – make sure to stay safe & vigilant!
• Since NYC is on a grid system, walking and navigating by foot is actually quite easy

Getting Around by Citi Bike

• NYC is also very bike-friendly and there are many neighborhoods & areas with bike lanes!
• This is a great way to explore neighborhoods like Central Park, Brooklyn, and the Hudson River Greenway

Travel Tips for New York City

Before I get started on my recommendations for how to spend 3 days in New York City, let’s just go over some general travel tips you should keep in mind, especially as a first-time visitor.

• New York City involves a lot of walking! Whether you’re exploring Central Park, walking across the Brooklyn Bridge, or hopping between attractions, comfy shoes are a must
  
  
• Avoid eating at Times Square. NYC is a foodie paradise, so eat at neighborhoods like East Village, West Village, Chinatown, etc. for a more authentic, cheaper, and overall better experience. Sometimes the “hole in the wall” places are the best! Check out my 30 top picks for cheap eats in NYC!
  
  
• Just like with any other major city, you should be mindful of your belongings & surroundings at all times. Keep your bag zipped, avoid empty subway cars at night, and don’t fall for common scams like people handing you “free” books or friendship bracelets
  
  
• Although I’ve mentioned observation decks in this itinerary, you definitely don’t have to spend a lot of money to get great views of the city! You can get breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline on the Roosevelt Island tramway, Staten Island ferry, and rooftop bars – all mentioned below!
  
  
• NYC is always busy, especially at tourist hotspots like Times Square, Rockefeller Center, and the Statue of Liberty. Visit popular attractions early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid peak crowds
  
  
• Although most places in NYC will take credit cards, it’s always a good idea to keep some cahs on hand for small shops, food trucks, food carts, and general tipping
  
  
• Looking for more travel tips? Check out 50 travel tips all travelers should know about!

Day 1: Midtown Manhattan & Broadway Night

Morning: Central Park & The Met

Views from Central Park in New York City

Start the morning off with some fresh air! Head to Central Park, a serene escape in the middle of the city. Just a fair warning, Central Park is huge and can easily be a full-day activity! I would highly recommend checking out a map of Central Park and pick out 2-3 areas you want to explore. You can also rent a Citibike to cover more ground.

Some famous Central Park spots that are great for first-time visitors include:

• Bethesda Terrace & Fountain – Located in the heart of Central Park, Bethesda Terrace is a grand, two-level architectural masterpiece overlooking Bethesda Fountain. With its intricate carvings, arched passageways, and stunning views of the lake, it’s a popular spot for photos, street performances, and peaceful reflection.
  
  
• Bow Bridge – One of Central Park’s most picturesque spots, Bow Bridge is a graceful cast-iron bridge arching over the lake. Known for its romantic setting, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding trees and skyline, making it a favorite for visitors, photographers, and even film shoots.
  
  
• Strawberry Fields – A serene memorial to John Lennon, Strawberry Fields is a peaceful section of Central Park near the Dakota building, where Lennon once lived. The “Imagine” mosaic, gifted by the city of Naples, serves as the centerpiece, attracting music fans and visitors paying tribute to the legendary Beatle
  

From Central Park, make your way to the Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met), which just so happens to be my favorite museum! If you only have time to visit one museum in your 3 days in New York City, this is the one that I would recommend. It has many exhibitions and galleries from around the world and includes sculptures, paintings, murals, & more. If you’re not a fan of the Met, you can check out one of the other museums along Museum Mile.

Just be cognizant of each museum’s opening hours as some museums are closed on certain days. It’s also very possible to spend a whole day (or even 3 days!) just seeing one museum so time your visit appropriately. Some museums are open late in the evenings on some days if you are looking for a late-night activity.

Afternoon: Rockefeller Center & 5th Avenue

NBC Studios located near to Rockefeller Center in Midtown Manhattan

Make your way down to Rockefeller Center for the afternoon. You can walk or take the subway. This area is not only home to NBC Studios but also to numerous shops & restaurants. Click here to check out the directory.

During the holiday season, you can find an ice rink and the beautifully adorned Rockefeller tree in the center of the plaza. If time permits, take an elevator ride up to the Top of the Rock for breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline. The ticket is costly, but worth it for the beautiful views you will get!

While you’re here, check out Radio City Music Hall. If you are visiting NYC during the holiday season, try to snag tickets to see the Radio City Rockettes Christmas Spectacular Show which has been a classic NYC holiday tradition since 1933!

Keep walking down on 5th Avenue to window-shop at famous stores like Saks Fifth Avenue, the Apple Store, and Tiffany & Co. Even window shopping is such a treat here! Stop by St. Patrick’s Cathedral, a stunning neo-Gothic church, that was built in 1879. The church is open to the public and free to visit. You can also get a self-guided tour for just $20. You can also attend mass service – click here for the schedule.

BONUS: Take a 20-minute walk down to the Empire State Building. There, you can buy tickets to go to the 86th floor and 102nd floor observation deck for more breathtaking views of the city & its boroughs.

Evening: Broadway Show & Times Square

Times Square in New York City

I would strongly recommend against eating dinner at Times Square since restaurants are often very expensive and not that great in my opinion. Walk a few blocks over to Hell’s Kitchen where you will find trendy restaurants & many different cuisines! I suggest making a dinner reservation in advance using OpenTable or Resy – you’d be surprised how busy restaurants get even on a random Tuesday!

Once you’ve enjoyed a delicious dinner it’s time for a Broadway show. You can’t come to New York without seeing a Broadway show! Many of the Broadway shows are in Times Square, but you can also catch an off-broadway show outside of Times Square.

Many of my friends swear by the TodayTix or TKTS app for finding cheap tickets. You can also enter for “rush tickets” where you can snag many last-minute deals on top-rated shows.

After the show, experience the dazzling lights and energy of Times Square at night, when the billboards shine the brightest and the atmosphere is at its liveliest. If you’re looking for a sweet way to end the night, pick up a slice of cheesecake at the famous Junior’s Bakery. It’s the perfect way to end your first of 3 days in New York City!

Day 2: Lower Manhattan, Brooklyn, & The Waterways

Morning: Wall Street & 9/11 Memorial

Reflection pools near the 9/11 Memorial in New York City

Today is your day to explore lower Manhattan & Brooklyn which is full of history and many cultural experiences for you to enjoy. Start off by taking a walk down to the Financial District which is home to Wall Street, the New York Stock Exchange, and the famous Charging Bull statue.

You can also walk a few blocks to the east to check out the Seaport District which combines historic charm with modern attractions along the East River waterfront. Cobblestone streets, waterfront dining, and cultural venues like Pier 17 make it a great place to explore. The area hosts concerts, rooftop events, and seasonal markets, all with stunning views of the Brooklyn Bridge.

Next, visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, a poignant tribute to the events of September 11, 2001. If you don’t have time to see the museum in your 3 days in New York City, I would still recommend stopping by and checking out the 9/11 Reflection Pools (free).

If you want to do some high-end shopping (or just window shop!) walk over to Brookfield Place. This is also a great place to grab lunch or a coffee. They often have events going on as well, so check out their events calendar before you go!

Afternoon: Exploring NYC Waterways

View of Brooklyn Bridge and the NYC ferry

Next up on the 3 Day New York itinerary, we’re going to take a ride along the NYC waterways! Manhattan is bordered by the East River to the east & Hudson River to the west, thereby making water transportation a great way to get around the city. Plus, you can get great views of the city! You have a few options here:

1. Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Ferries — the ferry terminal is located in Battery Park in lower Manhattan. These historic landmarks tell the story of America’s immigrant past and offer incredible photo opportunities. Consider booking an early morning ticket to avoid long lines.
   
   
2. Staten Island Ferry (FREE!) – this ferry departs from Whitehall Ferry Terminal (in lower Manhattan) and will drop you off in Staten Island. There isn’t much to do in Staten Island so I usually take the ferry to Staten Island, get off, and take the next ferry back to Manhattan. This ferry ride is completely free and offers breathtaking views of the city! Just note that this is a commuter ferry so it may get crowded during commuting hours.
   
   
3. NYC Ferry (recommended, pictured above)- there are many ferry terminals you can depart from but I recommend the one located on Pier 11/ Wall St. since it is closest to lower Manhattan and connects all 6 ferry routes. As of February 2025, the ticket prices are $4.50 each way and you can pick one of 6 routes to sail on. This is an inexpensive way to cruise along the East River, get beautiful views of the city, and is a convenient way to access Brooklyn, Queens, Rockaway Beach, Roosevelt Island, & Governor’s Island. By the way, this is by far my favorite thing to do in all of New York City!
   
   

Evening: Brooklyn Bridge & DUMBO

View of Manhattan bridge from the iconic DUMBO photo spot

Now that you’ve had a nice, relaxing boat ride – it’s time to do some walking! Walk to City Hall Park, which is the starting point of the Brooklyn Bridge pedestrian walkway. Walking along the Brooklyn Bridge is a must-do during your 3 days in New York City! It offers a beautiful (and free!) view of the Manhattan skyline, especially around sunset. Once you’ve walked across the bridge, you will be in the DUMBO neighborhood which is a hip & trendy neighborhood in Brooklyn.

If you don’t want to walk, you can also get to DUMBO by taking the NYC Ferry. Catch the “ER” ferry from Pier 11/ Wall St. and take the ferry to the DUMBO stop. You can also keep sailing and go to Williamsburg using this ferry route if you wish.

Once in Brooklyn, explore DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass), known for its trendy shops, waterfront views, and delicious eateries. Take a photo at the iconic DUMBO photo-spot (shown in the picture above). End your night with a slice of Grimaldi’s Pizza or a sweet treat from Jacques Torres Chocolate. For more dining options, check out the Time Out Market which is a food hall that has many dining spots to choose from.

Day 3: Greenwich Village & East Village

Morning: SoHo & Greenwich Village

Little Owl restaurant in Greenwich Village

On your final day in NYC, we’re going to explore the “villages”. These are two of my favorite neighborhoods in New York City! This area is located between Lower Manhattan & Midtown Manhattan.

Start off the day in SoHo, famous for its boutique shopping, cast-iron architecture, and vibrant arts scene. Wander through cobblestone streets and pop into unique shops or art galleries. There’s also a lot of great brunch spots & cute coffee shops here! For a list of all the major shopping spots in Soho, check out this website.

Next, head over to Greenwich Village, a charming neighborhood known for its historic brownstones, lively atmosphere, and AMAZING food spots. This is my favorite foodie spot in all of NYC! Grab a coffee and stroll along the side streets which are so calm and quaint. Stop by Washington Square Park, a perfect place to relax and soak in the city’s energy.

Afternoon: Chinatown & Little Italy

Chinatown in Manhattan, New York City

From Greenwich Village, you can walk or take the subway to Chinatown. There are many authentic restaurants, Asian bakeries, markets, and tea shops for you to enjoy here.

I recently had lunch at Nom Wah Tea Parlor, which is a dim sum place that was established in the 1920s. It’s one of the top-rated places in Chinatown for authentic Chinese food. I’m an Asian food snob and this restaurant did not disappoint!

Just next to Chinatown is Little Italy, where you can grab a fresh cannoli from Ferrara Bakery and take in the old-world charm of the neighborhood. This is another great place to get some lunch if you’re craving fresh pizza & pasta. There’s also many street vendors & small shops here selling New York souvenirs at unbeatable prices!

Evening: East Village & Lower East Side

East Village in New York City

End your 3 days in New York City by exploring the East Village & Lower East Side, which features some of the city’s best nightlife and many rooftop bars. This part of Manhattan also has many affordable eateries & many different types of cuisines. If you need a place to sit and rest, stop by the beautiful Tompkins Square Park.

You will also find a lot of history along these streets since this section of Manhattan was home to many immigrants in the late 1800s and early 1900s. If you like history, try to make time for the Tenement Museum, which showcases the lives & homes of Eastern European immigrants during this time period.

After the sun sets, you can enjoy a drink at a hidden speakeasy like Attaboy or experience a rooftop bar such as Mr. Purple, which offers stunning skyline views. What a perfect way to wrap up a great trip to NYC!

Alternate Experiences

Believe it or not, there are still many other things to explore in NYC! In this section, I’ve included other experiences you can add or exchange in your 3 day New York City itinerary.

• Roosevelt Island & Tram – Roosevelt Island is a narrow island in the East River between Manhattan & Queens offering stunning views of Manhattan. The Roosevelt Island Tramway provides a bird’s-eye view of the city and is a scenic & affordable way to get there from midtown Manhattan, You can also ride the NYC ferry to Roosevelt Island using the “AS” ferry route. Once on the island, you can explore parks, historic sites, and take a walk along the serene waterfront. If you’re visiting in the spring, this is a great place to view cherry blossoms!
  
  
• Battery Park – Located at the southern tip of Manhattan, Battery Park is a peaceful green space with beautiful harbor views. It’s the departure point for ferries to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, but it’s also worth visiting for its scenic gardens, historic monuments, and waterfront promenades. Don’t miss the SeaGlass Carousel, a whimsical ride featuring illuminated fish.
  
  
• Piers Along Hudson River – The Hudson River piers, particularly those in Hudson River Park, offer fantastic waterfront dining, recreation, and scenic spots to relax. Piers like Pier 57 and Pier 25 feature restaurants, rooftop parks, and even mini-golf, while Pier 26 is home to an eco-friendly tide deck for nature lovers. These piers provide a great escape from the city’s hustle.
  
  
• Starbucks Reserve Roastery – Located in the Meatpacking District, this high-end Starbucks experience is a coffee lover’s dream. The Starbucks Reserve Roastery features an immersive coffee experience, offering rare blends, specialty drinks, and a working roastery where you can watch beans being roasted. The stylish space also includes a bar serving coffee-infused cocktails.
  
  
• Meatpacking District – Once an industrial hub, the Meatpacking District is now one of NYC’s trendiest neighborhoods, known for its high-end shopping, nightlife, and dining. It’s home to The Whitney Museum, the High Line, and designer boutiques. The area’s cobblestone streets and chic rooftop bars make it a stylish place to spend an evening.
  
  
• High Line – An innovative urban park built on a former elevated railway, the High Line offers a scenic, tree-lined walkway above the streets of Manhattan’s Meatpacking District and Chelsea. It features stunning views, public art, gardens, and unique seating areas, making it a must-visit spot for a leisurely stroll.
  
  
• Empire State Building – One of NYC’s most famous landmarks, the Empire State Building offers breathtaking views from its 86th and 102nd-floor observation decks. It’s especially magical at sunset when the city lights begin to twinkle. The Art Deco masterpiece is also beautifully illuminated at night with colorful lights that change for special occasions.
  
  
• NYC Ferry – I know I talked about the ferry in the main post above, but just wanted to talk a little bit more about it here. The NYC Ferry is an affordable and scenic way to explore the city by water. With routes connecting Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx, it provides a relaxed alternative to the subway, often with incredible skyline views. It’s a great way to reach areas like Governors Island, Rockaway Beach, Williamsburg, Astoria, Long Island City, Roosevelt Island, DUMBO, the Seaport District, Upper East Side, and Midtown Manhattan while enjoying a breezy ride.
  
  
• Governors Island – Just a short ferry ride from Manhattan, Governors Island is a car-free oasis with lush parks, art installations, and historic buildings. It’s a perfect spot for biking, picnicking, or enjoying seasonal events like outdoor concerts and food festivals. The island also boasts incredible skyline views and unique overnight glamping experiences.
  
  
• Upper East Side – The Upper East Side is synonymous with elegance, featuring upscale shopping, iconic museums like The Met and The Frick Collection, and grand brownstones. It’s a great neighborhood for a leisurely walk along Madison Avenue, a visit to Central Park, or an afternoon at a charming café.
  
  
• Upper West Side – A relaxed, residential neighborhood, the Upper West Side is known for its cultural institutions like Lincoln Center and the American Museum of Natural History. It’s also a fantastic area for classic NYC experiences, from brunch at a cozy café to a walk through Riverside Park with views of the Hudson River.
  
  

Download the Free 3-Day New York City Itinerary

Get a free PDF version of the 3-Day NYC Itinerary for easy printing and use on mobile devices!
The PDF contains both a color copy as well as a black & white copy that is printer-friendly!

Whew, that was a lot! I hope your 3 days in New York City is amazing and that you have a blast exploring the Big Apple. As always, I would love to hear about your experiences in the comments below. Plus, drop me a comment if I missed anything or you have other suggestions that I didn’t mention in this post! Safe travels!

If you’re looking the top iconic places to eat in NYC, check out this post featuring 30 of the best cheap eats in NYC!