new york trip feb 2023

7 Great Things to Do in New York in February

February might be one of the coldest months of the year, but it’s a great time to travel throughout New York.

In addition to fewer crowds at many of the state’s top attractions, there are also some really great events happening throughout the state. In fact, whether you want to experience the outdoors, sample some of the state’s best beers, or learn more about the culture of New York, there’s a bit of something for everyone to do this month.

Check out our list of the best things to do in New York this February and start planning your wintertime travels.

(Article updated on January 13, 2024 for events in February 2024.)

Empire State Winter Games in the Adirondacks – February 1-4

The Lake Placid area is a hub for winter sports, so it makes sense that it’s also the home of the Empire State Winter Games.

Held this year in early February, this event brings together athletes of all skill levels from throughout New York and even further afield to compete in a variety of winter activities. Popular contests include skiing, bobsled, hockey, cross-country skiing, and many more.

Find out more information about being both an athlete and a spectator on the games’ website .

Lake George Winter Carnival in Lake George – February 3-25

Head to Lake George Village every Saturday and Sunday during the month of February for the annual Lake George Winter Carnival. A winter tradition in the Adirondacks since 1961, this winter carnival is packed with family-friendly fun.

Carnival goers can take part in the Polar Plunge, see a parade and fireworks shows, and even participate in one of the carnival’s one-of-a-kind outhouse races during the first Saturday of the month.

In addition to children’s activities and face painting, carnival attendees can also join in on a cornhole game, warm up with hot chocolate and s’mores with a bonfire on the beach, and enter their pups into a dog talent show during most weekends of the carnival.

For a complete list of scheduled lists for each weekend of the carnival, click here .

NYC Lunar New Year Parade in New York City- February 10

Celebrate the Chinese Lunar New Year in the Big Apple by attending Chinatown’s annual parade. Winding its way through the main streets of Little Italy and Chinatown, the parade will feature impressive performances as well as amazing visuals. Food vendors will be on hand during the festivities.

To learn more about the parade as well as the corresponding street party, click here .

Living History Event at Fort Ticonderoga – February 17

If you’re a history buff, then this living history event at Fort Ticonderoga should be at the top of your list of things to do in New York in February.

This one-day event takes place on Saturday, February 18 at the historic Fort Ticonderoga and highlights what it was like at the fort in the winter of 1776 during the American Revolution It will offer the chance to learn about a little-known period of history in a unique winter setting.

Find out more on the event’s website .

Brewer’s Invitational Beer Festival in Lockport – February 18

Billing itself as “New York’s most rare, exclusive beer festival,” the Brewer’s Invitational Beer Festival returns to Lockport, a suburb of Buffalo , this February.

This one-day event will feature many fabulous breweries and cideries from western New York offering samples of some of the best and newest brews. If you want to experience some of the best breweries in Buffalo in one setting, you won’t want to miss this great event.

Find out more here .

Saratoga Beer Summit in Saratoga Springs – February 24

This 21-year-old and older event held at the Saratoga Springs City Center is perfect for the craft beer and cider lovers out there.

The main event of the week is being held on Saturday, February 24 at Saratoga Spring City Center. This beer fest will feature brews from dozens of great breweries and cideries from both New York and further afield.

To purchase tickets online and to learn more about the event, click here .

Holiday Valley’s Penguin Paddle in Ellicottville – February 24

Benefiting the Holiday Valley’s Lounsbury Adaptive Program, the Penguin Paddle is a family-friendly fundraiser held each year at the ski resort. After taking part in the silent auction and enjoying lunch, attendees of the event can participate in (or just watch) the highlight of the fundraiser- the Penguin Paddle races!

Race participants can zoom down the Yodeler slope “penguin style”- either inside a garbage bag or on their bellies down the slope. Racers must be at least 4 years old to enter the race, and helmets are required.

For a full schedule of events, click here .

Looking for more events in New York? Check out our picks for the best things to do in New York in January and our favorite things to do in NY in March .

Do you have a favorite thing to do in New York in February that isn’t on this list? Let us know in the comments below.

More places worth exploring in New York

Lights on the Lake: Festive Christmas Fun in Syracuse

How to Get to Lower Falls in Rochester, New York

Hiking Through Ushers Road State Forest in Saratoga County

Uncovering Fossils and Gemstones at the Hicksville Gregory Museum

Jim Cheney is the creator of Uncovering New York. After spending 5.5 years exploring Pennsylvania, Jim discovered a love for New York and is excited to spend time exploring this great state and uncovering the best things to do here.

1 thought on “7 Great Things to Do in New York in February”

The saranac lake ice castles!! Can’t leave that out!!

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52 Fabulous Things To Do In New York City In February

With the first month in the new year already speeding by, it’s time to fill that calendar with new things to do throughout February!

From visits to the botanical gardens that’ll gracefully guide us into the spring months, to romantic dinner dates or naming hissing cockroaches for V-Day—here are the best things you can do in February as we all patiently await springtime.

1. Head to NYBG’s dazzling Orchid Show

The 21st annual Orchid Show at the New York Botanical Garden returns on February 17th, and, as usual, it’s expected to be an absolute showstopper! Catch vibrant colors in this year’s The Orchid Show: Florals in Fashion  that will highlight designs from three visionaries. You won’t want to miss thousands of beautiful orchids overtaking the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory! Find out more here.

2. Clear your mind with this enchanting wellness experience at GAIA NoMaya in Brooklyn

End your week with Sonic Sanctuary Sundays in Brooklyn! Take a deep breath and immerse yourself in serene experiences which include an ancient Mayan Cacao Ceremony, sound healing meditation and holotropic breath work. 

Be whisked away during a serene live instrumental concert in a salt cave with salt therapy & a one of a kind gong experience! Head over to GAIA Nomaya at 510 Flatbush Ave. Tickets are $65 for this three-hour experience and there are additional services you can try such as, massages, and reiki sessions!

3. Take a walk amongst the stars at Astra Lumina

Queens Botanical Garden has been entirely transformed into a celestial pathway full of lustrous light, cosmic visions, and astral song. Don’t miss the last month to embark on this epic journey into the stars. Grab your tickets here !

4. Discover a pink paradise at Pier 15

February is the month of love and that means we’re talking all pink everything! We suggest you head to the world’s first all-pink pier at Pier 15, perfect for s weethearts, besties & families. Grab a cocktail and take in astonishing views of the Brooklyn Bridge in the background of your very own pink igloo. Secure your spot here .

5. See masterpieces by Goya, Ingres, Rembrandt & more for a limited time

Now in its final weeks, Frick Madison offers a unique experience showing masterpieces of The Frick Collection. Explore works from the Renaissance to the early twentieth century on view for a limited time at the museum’s temporary home, open through March 3rd. Have a Valentine that’s also an art enthusiast? Take them to see treasured paintings and sculptures by Bellini, Gainsborough, Goya, Holbein, Ingres, Rembrandt, Titian, Turner, Vermeer, and Whistler. Visit Frick Madison , located at 945 Madison Avenue at 75th Street. Open Thursday to Sunday, 10am-6pm.

6. Uncover the secrets of New York’s only Catholic catacombs

Venture underground into NYC’s only Catholic catacombs and explore off-limits areas of the Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral. With your talented guide, you’ll discover the final resting place of famous New Yorkers past. Get your tickets today!

7. Spice up your Valentine’s Day with the best plans across NYC

Be hit by cupid’s arrow this year when you check out the cities most swoon worthy ways to spend V-Day in the city! From candlelit concerts, intimate restaurants, making your own cocktails, and more, you’re sure to find an event that you’ll be excited about. You can find out full list here . As for gift ideas , we’ve got you covered too!

8. Or don’t take part in all the mushy gushy

And name your slimy ex after a hissing roach! The Bronx Zoo brought back their annual “Name a Roach” program perfect for anyone looking to get back at a sleezy someone. You can simply name a roach after them or go out all and get them a roach tumbler, tote, and even a virtual visit with their new crawling pest. Discover more here.

9. Experience a full year’s worth of NYC’s vibrant culture and history at RiseNY

Warm up this winter with NYC’s most exciting new attraction, RiseNY! Escape the cold weather and soar above the street corner slush puddles (that is if the snow ever decides to stick!) to experience a full year’s worth of NYC’s vibrant culture and history. Grab your tickets here .

10. Be captivated by seductive cirque-style cabaret dinner shows

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Secret NYC (@secret_nyc)

The AirOtic Soireé features special Cirque-style cabaret dinner shows that bring talented world-class acrobats together to wow its audience through mind-boggling stunts. Visitors will be wowed by extravagant costumes and seductive choreography for a one-of-a-kind burlesque circus style soirée. Grab tickets here .

11. Sip Swiss wine in a 1970s gondola at this charming bar in the West Village

Be transported to the heart of Switzerland’s french-speaking region at The Lavaux, a wine and fondue bar in the West Village where you’ll sip on delicious Swiss wines and indulge in a number of tasty bites from boards to entrees and, of course, fondue! Read all about it here .

12. Elevate your senses and taste buds at a ‘Dining In The Dark’ experience

Prepare yourself for a dining experience you’ve never had before–that blindfolds you! Awaken your remaining senses and put your dining skills to the test through a decadent meal while you’re blanketed in darkness. There’s only a few dates each month and they book up fast, so be sure to purchase asap! Reserve your spot here .

• Enjoy a secret omakase menu
• Or dine at a trendy Williamsburg Italian restaurant
• Or get a gift card if you can’t decide

13. Honor & celebrate Black History Month in NYC

Black history should be celebrated all year round, but if you’re looking to dedicate this month to a renewed learning and appreciation of Black stories, culture, and businesses, here are some ways to do that in NYC:

• 85 Black-owned restaurants in NYC
• 20 Black-owned restaurants in Brooklyn
• 30 NYC Black-Owned Businesses

Find some Black History Month events here .

14. Glide, slide, and spin around on Bryant Park’s wildly popular bumper cars

Bryant Park Winter Village’s iconic bumper cars have hit the ice once again, and you won’t want to miss this opportunity to act like a little kid again! Learn more about this wildly fun experience from how to reserve your spot and how much the experience costs here .

15. Explore a NYC neighborhood you may not have been to yet

It seems as if NYC goes on forever with how much there is to explore, and we’re making it our mission to explore every last look and cranny of the city we call home. We love to go to different spots around the city and create our own guides with our favorite things to do in the area, so that once you go to explore that neighborhood you know exactly what can’t be missed! Two of our most favored neighborhood guides include:

• 13 Lovely Things To Do In Little Caribbean, Brooklyn
• 18 Charming Things To Do In Chinatown, Manhattan

16. Take in a stunning concert by candlelight

The wildly popular Fever Originals Candlelight series is hosting an incredible selection of intimate concerts that are perfect for this romantic month! Embark on a musical journey bathed in flickering candlelight from Bach to the Beatles, Sinatra to classic rock. There’s truly something for everyone. Find one right up your alley here .

17. Score unbeatable prices during Restaurant Week

Dine at NYC’s top-tier establishments throughout Restaurant Week (also a part of NYC’s Winter Outing Program). With over 540+ participating restaurants, dine for a prix-fixed price with mouthwatering menus at some of the cities most delicious spots. Find out more details when you click here. (Restaurant week ends Feb. 4th).

18. Catch a movie at an amazing price

Escape from the cold and head to a participating AMC movie theatre, with an AMC black ticket that’s valid for any 2D movie, on any day, at any time, and at participating AMC Theatres at a discount promotional Fever price! Grab your ticket here .

19. Attend the 26th Annual Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade

The Lunar New Year celebration is observed by many cultures around the world whose calendars follow the moon cycles. To celebrate, New Yorkers can once again prepare for the lively streets of Chinatown to fill with festivities at the 26th annual Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade, which will once again color the streets of Chinatown on Sunday, February 25th. Find out all the deets here and other ways to celebrate .

20. Hole up at NYC’s most romantic restaurants

Warm up from the cold with these dimly-lit, intimate spots across NYC perfect for some peace and quiet away from the city’s hustle and bustle. Whether you’re treating yourself to a solo date or taking your significant other, check your daily stresses at the door and simply enjoy an incredible meal in a beautiful setting. See our full list here.

21. Warm up at the world’s first Michelin-starred ramen shop’s NYC outpost

With the chill of winter looming, we’ve got piping hot ramen on the brain, and thankfully the world’s first Michelin-starred ramen shop, Tsuta, has officially opened in Brooklyn! Known for their Truffle Shoyu Soba Ramen, it’s definitely the perfect way to warm up on a chilly winter night. Read all about it here .

22. Or, stick to igloo dining

If you’d rather stick to outdoor dining, there are still plenty of cozy options—and don’t worry, most of them are heated! Here are some of our favorites:

• 230 Fifth Rooftop
• City Winery

23. Embark on an immersive music & wellness experience at Sonic Sanctuary Sundays

Open your heart to a world of wellness at Sonic Sanctuary Sundays. Practice breath work while listening to a 360 Spatial audio sound healing. You’ll experience Halotherapy Salt Healing for lungs and body during the salt cave Concert and aromatherapy energy cleansing, plus more! Get your tickets today

24. Head to two of America’s most-loved landmarks that are located here in NYC

When you think of the world’s most iconic landmarks images of the Eiffel Tower, Leaning Tower of Pisa, or Taj Mahal may come to mind. And NYC has a few landmarks of it’s own, of course–and two of them are considered America’s most-loved! Can you guess which ones they are? Find out here , and then plan a visit!47. Catch NYC’s buzziest new play “Lucy,” here for only a four-week run

25. Warm up with a hot chocolate

Nothing’s quite as comforting as hot cocoa! Lucky for us, NYC has tons of incredible joints to indulge in steaming cups with overflowing marshmallows and delicious flavors. Here are some spots we absolutely love :

• Dominique Ansel Bakery

Our full list of recommendations can be found here .

26. Check out a new Broadway show

Many new Broadway shows are hitting the stage this year, and a lot of them are beginning to show previews this month! We gathered together the best shows coming to NYC this year, and from comedies to musicals, we’ve sharing them all with you! Check out our list here .

27. Take a wintry hike

Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy the beauty of nature! Get out and about and go for a little hike in one of the many parks in the five boroughs or beyond.

• Van Cortlandt Park (VCP)
• Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
• Green Belt Nature Center
• Pelham Bay Park

See the rest of our recommended spots here .

28. Not a hiker? Still explore the outdoors with these amazing activities…

Maybe a bike ride or a street art tour will do! Whatever you’re into there’s tons of outdoor activities to do this winter in the city. Check out our full list here.

29. Glide on the ice at one of NYC’s many skating rinks

From rooftop ice rinks to everyone’s favorite Rockefeller rink, lace up your skates for the perfect winter activity. Click here to find all the rinks open in the city.

30. Push your fear of heights aside at Rockefeller Center’s The Beam

Rockefeller Center’s The Beam is a thrilling experience which recreates the famous 1932 photograph “Lunch Atop a Skyscraper,” in which 11 ironworkers are seen perched on a steel beam eating lunch while 30 Rockefeller Plaza was under construction. Thrill seeking visitors will be strapped into seats on a recreated beam and lifted 12 feet above the observation deck platform, taking in stunning views of NYC’s beloved Central Park before descending. Read all about it here.

31. Take advantage of pay-as-you-wish weekdays at Brooklyn Botanic Garden

The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is offering pay-as-you-wish admissions on weekdays to all visitors through the end of February. Enjoy the wintry grounds for whatever price you like from Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. Find out more.

32. Or enjoy free entry on Friday evenings at the Whitney

The museum recently announced its greatest expansion of free access in decades with free entry on Friday evenings beginning January 12th and every second Sunday of the month. Read all about it in detail here .

33. Check out wintry transformations at NYC’s rooftops

Each year the city as a whole transforms into a winter wonderland, and that includes a number of the rooftop bars and restaurants. Here’s a few of our favorites:

• Pink Winter Lounge at the Moxy
• Haven Rooftop’s “Ski Chalet”
• Eataly’s SERRA by Birreria
• Gallow Green’s Rooftop Bar Has Transformed Into A Cozy Winter Hideaway
• Upstairs at The Kimberly, Midtown

34. Pretend it’s summer at this year-round rooftop pool

The TWA Hotel located at JFK Airport has a rooftop pool is actually open year round—and yes, it’s heated! The pool offers panoramic views of one of the biggest runways at JFK so you can watch planes and jets take off into the clouds as you sip on a drink by the water! Because who wouldn’t want to dip in a nice heated pool and pretend it’s not 30º outside?! Read more about it here .

35. Roam through enchanting ice castles upstate

Only a few hours outside of NYC, catch towering ice castles filled with slides, mazes, tunnels, and alcoves! Each fairytale structure is built entirely by hand. New York is one of the lucky five states in the U.S. that has such an experience. Find out more here.

36. Enjoy live music, drinks, & endless art at The Met Date Nights

On the nights that the temperatures dip into those lower numbers, we understand that planning date night could be discouraging, but you should never miss out on date night altogether, and you definitely won’t be able to turn this idea down! The Met Museum is once again hosting date nights in the comfort of their beautiful (and warm) indoor space every Friday and Saturday, and you won’t want to miss it! Learn all about it here .

37. Dance the night away at this unassuming nightclub inside a converted hangar in Brooklyn

Known as SILO, the club seeks to be an “open-minded exploration of sound” that promotes gender equality. The club invites a rotating spectrum of DJs and producers, in addition to ‘vinyl only’ nights. It’s the perfect way to escape the cold temperatures outside and work up some heat by dancing.   Read all about it here .

38. See if you can crack the code to enter this new omakase speakeasy

The Office of Mr. Moto is an intimate speakeasy-style restaurant that offers the most mouthwatering omakase menu–that’s if you can get inside! With antiques from 19th century Japan, this new spot is way more than just a restaurant and speakeasy, but the food is still incredibly mouthwatering! Read all about it here .

39. Explore AMNH’s 230,000-square-foot Science Center for its one-year anniversary

Last February, a new addition joined the Museum of Natural History’s grounds with the new Richard Gilder Center for Science, Education, and Innovation. This beautiful science hall is actually a completely new building being added to the Museum’s campus, and will be home to almost 4 million scientific specimens. Read all about it here .

40. Get some well deserved R&R at this converted Manhattan parking garage that’s now a bathhouse

Bathhouse is opening its second NYC location in Flatiron, transforming a former 35,000-square-foot underground parking garage into a dreamy wellness oasis. Sticking to its Williamsburg roots, the new location will offer a variety of global bathhouse traditions. Read all about it here .

41. Find fun for the whole family

From the coolest new exhibits to slime making experiences, there are never ending family-friendly activities to enjoy in NYC. Find some of our favorites here .

42. Save your money with all these exciting free things to do around NYC

Even though it’s one of the most expensive cities in the world, there are loads of completely FREE things to do. If you’re paying the rent to live in a city this fantastic, you must take advantage of all there is to do and see! Some of our fav free things include:

• Free weekly yoga at Chelsea Market
• Free museums

Find our full list of free things here .

43. Run around NYC in your undies for Neurofibromatosis

Yes it’s January. Yes it may be freezing cold. Yes this event is asking you to come only in underwear. But hey, it’s all for a great cause! Cupid’s Undie Run is returning on Saturday, February 10  to raise money and awareness for those living with Neurofibromatosis, a genetic disorder that causes tumors. Find more details and why it’s all happening in your underwear here .

44. Explore Hudson River Park’s new climbable fish playground

A 4,000-square-foot marine-science-focused playground has opened up on Manhattan’s Pier 26. With the addition of Pier 26 Science Play Area , Hudson River Park now has five children’s play areas! Read more here .

45. Take a day-cation for a quick winter getaway

When winter hits it can be hard to force yourself to get out of your apartment. But with these beautiful day-cations only a short ride outside of the city, you’ll be motivated more than ever to get some fresh air. Whether you’re looking to strap on some skis or shop from adorable boutiques, see here for our full list of quick winter getaways.

46. Show of your skating skills at this retro rink

Get groovy at Roller Rock, a nostalgic retro roller rink, opening at The Rockaway Hotel + Spa for a second year. The vibes are absolutely immaculate with a checkerboard floor and twinkling disco ball, perfect for pictures. Learn more skating info here .

47. Munch on these epic food deals during Super Bowl LVIII

Whatever brings you to turn on your screen on game day, be it the half-time performance, commercials, or the actual sport, there’s no denying the food is a major part of the action. Find the most mouthwatering super bowl deals on wings, sliders and more across these NYC spots .

48. Learn something new at the just renovated Toby Devan Lewis Education Center

Brooklyn Museum’s new education center is inviting visitors to nurture their creative minds in a space where everyone is an artist. The new center features a gallery for rotating family-friendly installations, three studios and high-tech audiovisual systems and LED lighting. Museum goers will also be able to take advantage of unique programming and classes in regards to arts education and community engagement. Learn more here .

49. Be prepared for another six weeks of winter or early spring

This month, we’ll be anxiously awaiting the verdict from both Punxsutawney Phil, and our more local and reliable Staten Island Chuck, to see whether an early spring is ahead or if we’ll be subjected to more weeks of freezing winter. Whatever they predict, we’ve got solutions for the both. If it’s an early spring, be sure to check out these beautiful trails near NYC . If winter prevails be sure to click on our winter bucket list here .

50. Discover a new hobby at a unique class

NYC is home to tons of interesting and niche classes. From culinary creations, to flower arranging and dance, find what excites you the most with our full list here .

51. Take a drive to see the world’s oldest forest in New York

Apparently, an ancient forest in Gilboa, New York was once the old stomping ground for dinosaurs! Back then, the forest covered 250-miles-worth of land. Today, it only covers about half of a football field. Though you can’t actually enter the forest since it’s not open to the public, you can take just over a two hour drive from NYC to see the town its in! Read more here .

52. Cast your vote for Queens’ Best Bagel Competition

From January 29th to February 7th, you have the chance to help determine who offers up the best bagel in the entire borough of Queens. The inaugural competition from the Queens Chamber of Commerce will announce the official winner on National Bagel and Lox Day (February 9th). Read more here .

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10 events to visit in New York City this February

During frigid February, New York City’s purveyors of culture and entertainment will once again be doing their best to keep locals and visitors warm by hosting a ton of great events.

(Photo: May S. Young via Flickr / CC BY 2.0)

Venues across the Big Apple will be staging everything from art displays to festivals to special touring exhibitions throughout February this year. If you’re coming to the city and would like to catch some of them during your stay, we’ve taken a good look at them all and picked out 10 of the best to look out for. Most of these events will have their own official website where you can find out more about ticketing, opening hours, and other useful info.

Chinese Lunar New Year Parade and Festival

The Chinese New Year – also known as the Lunar New Year – returns for 2023, once again promising a whole day jam-packed full of celebrations including bursting firecrackers, mesmerising lion dances and delicious cuisine. Taking place throughout NYC’s numerous Chinatown districts, this year’s festivities usher in the Year of the Rabbit and promises to deliver a veritable feast for the senses. The event’s signature parade kicks off at 1pm.

Chinatown / 12 February 2023

New York Fashion Week

(Photo: Art Comments via Flickr / CC BY 2.0)

The February instalment of this internationally renowned biannual fashion event will see the likes of Ralph Lauren and Marc Jacobs, among others, as well as new and upcoming designers showcase their Autumn/Winter collections to buyers, press and the public. To attend the more exclusive shows, you’ll need an official invitation, but some smaller designers open their doors to everyone, allowing fashion lovers to see the latest creations and newest trends with their own eyes.

Venues across NYC / 10-15 February 2023

Central Park may be better associated with sunshine and picnics, or Autumnal colours, but for one day each February the vast green urban expanse is given over to a celebration of winter sports. Free to enter, the family-friendly festival features activities such as ice carving, snowshoeing, sledding, curling, ice bowling, and Bobsled. And fear not, if the natural elements don’t do their job, a mini mountain of man-made snow is provided to keep the fun times rolling.

Central Park / 4 February 2023

Titanic: The Exhibition

Far more than a mere display of historic artefacts, this travelling exhibition presents a unique narrative experience, telling the tale of the people aboard history’s most legendary ship on its maiden – and final – journey. Visitors can travel back to 1912 through over 200 original objects including photographs, handwritten letters, wayward keepsakes, and other personal belongings that tell countless stories about the fates and heroic deeds of those on board.

526 6th Avenue / Through February 2023

‘Kimono Style: The John C. Weber Collection’ exhibition

(Photo: The Harry G. C. Packard Collection of Asian Art, Gift of Harry G. C. Packard, and Purchase, Fletcher, Rogers, Harris Brisbane Dick, and Louis V. Bell Funds, Joseph Pulitzer Bequest, and The Annenberg Fund Inc. Gift, 1975)

Running into mid-February, this exhibition will trace the transformation of the distinctive kimono from the late Edo period (1615–1868) through the early 20th century, as the T-shaped garment was adapted to suit the lifestyle of modern Japanese women. It will feature a selection of works from the renowned John C. Weber Collection of Japanese art that explore the mutual artistic exchanges between the kimono and Western fashion. Illustrating these connections will be over 60 kimonos alongside Western garments, paintings, prints, and decorative art objects.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art / Through 20 February 2023

National Pizza Day

It may have its origins across the pond in Italy, but nowadays pizza is almost as closely connected with New York. And each year, the city celebrates this long-standing culinary relationship with a full 24 hours dedicated to the delectable dough-based dish. At eateries across the city, hungry patrons can try quirky pizza creations, with numerous restaurants offering special deals to mark the occasion, including free pizzas when you buy a pitcher of beer or a bottle of wine. For a real taste of history, head to Lombardi’s in Little Italy, which lays claim to serving the first pizza in NYC back in 1905.

Venues across NYC / 9 February 2023

Presidents’ Day Weekend

Every third Monday in February – designed to coincide with the birthday of the first president of America, George Washington – cities across the US stop to honour all former and current US presidents. To mark the occasion, a number of fun activities and events are held across the city, with many museums hosting special exhibits for kids who will be enjoying their school holidays. It’s also a busy time for retail, with stores using the event to herald the start of their sales season.

Venues across NYC / 18-19 February 2023

NYC Broadway Week

(Photo: Antti-Jussi Kovalainen via Flickr / CC BY-ND 2.0)

Home to one of the world’s most famous theatre scenes, at the heart of New York’s theatrical endeavours is the long avenue known as Broadway. Held biannually, NYC Broadway Week sees theatre houses throughout Broadway offer special shows and experiences, with tickets heavily discounted for the occasion, giving those who may usually be priced out the chance to save big on tickets to some of theatre’s biggest hits for a limited time.

Venues across NYC / 17 January – 12 February 2023

New York Restaurant Week

It’s often been said that it’s hard to have a bad meal in New York, such are the city’s levels of excellence nowadays when it comes to cuisine. And there’s no better time to find this out for yourself than during New York Restaurant Week, which sees eateries across the city offer special deals to both local and visiting diners, providing the perfect opportunity to sample New York’s diverse culinary offerings at bargain prices.

Venues across NYC / Through 12 February 2023

Blue Man Group

The comic musical and artistic Blue Man Group have been entertaining audiences across the world with their magical, multi-sensory performances for almost 25 years. Throughout February they’ll be putting on their unique and long-running show at New York’s intimate Astor Place Theatre, featuring their distinctive brand of audience interaction with the famously blue-painted cast. Incorporating an eclectic mix of music and art, both popular and obscure, the show never fails to dazzle those who see it.

Astor Palace Theatre / 1-26 February 2023

By Paul Joseph

The Ultimate 3 Days in New York City Itinerary (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: July 22, 2024

If you’re looking for the perfect 3 days in New York City itinerary to make the most of your first time in the Big Apple, then this is the one for you!

The Big Apple, the city that never sleeps, the capital of the world – No matter how you’ve heard it called, there’s no denying that New York City is one of the most vibrant and fascinating cities on the planet.

Visiting this cosmopolitan metropolis has been a lifetime goal for millions of people around the world. With the bright lights of Times Square, the freedom the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island represent and the human element of everybody trying to make it big here on Hollywood movies and TV screens for decades.

There’s something incredible about exploring New York City’s many neighbourhoods, districts, and attractions that you won’t find anywhere else in the United States, or in most cities around the world.

Table of Contents

One World Observatory

9/11 memorial museum, battery park, statue of liberty and ellis island, wall street, cross the brooklyn bridge, brooklyn bridge park, get dinner in dumbo, take a walk on the high line, empire state building, american museum of natural history, metropolitan museum of art, central park, fifth avenue, see a broadway show, times square, little italy, new york city hall, museum of illusions, washington square park, madame tussauds, bryant park, st. patrick’s cathedral, rockefeller center, top of the rock, buy a new york citypass, purchase a metrocard, start your days early, walk between places on short distances, best hostel in manhattan – jazz on columbus circle, best mid-range hotel – pod 51 hotel, best luxury hotel in manhattan – hotel giraffe by library collection, the property, what we liked, what we didn’t like, overall impression, how to spend a perfect 3 days in new york city.

Three days in New York City might not be enough to see the entirety of the city – after all, it is enormous – but those 3 days would be just enough to see a lot of its most popular attractions.

Check out our  best tips for travel photography  to help you capture some amazing pictures of New York City on your trip.

The best way to experience the city on your first trip to New York is to explore its attractions in sections, breaking it up area by area. Manhattan is massive with a lot of things to do, so by dedicating your time to particular locations you will end up with the most efficient use of your limited time here.

If you’ve never been to the Big Apple before and are feeling a bit lost on what to see in New York City in 3 days, we recommend buying the New York CityPASS , as it will give you access to some of the most popular things to see in town at heavily discounted rates.

So without further ado, here is our perfect 3 days in New York City itinerary and travel tips to help you get the most out of your first trip to the city that never sleeps.

Day 1 – Morning

After enjoying a delicious New York City breakfast (go either as big or as small as you like), it’s time to jump on the famous New York Subway and head to WTC Cortland Station.

It’s from here that you’ll begin the first activity of your 3-day New York itinerary.

The One World Observatory was officially opened in 2015 as the replacement to the Twin Towers that made up the World Trade Centre, and since then it receives thousands of visitors every single day.

It’s one of the best ways to start your three days in New York because you’ll be observing the city in all its majesty from the 100th, 101st and 102nd stories of the tallest building in the western hemisphere (a dizzying 1776 feet, or 541 metres, high).

Make sure to arrive as early as possible, since this is a very popular attraction and the lines can get pretty long. The wait is worth it though, and on a clear day you’ll have amazing views of the entire city (and beyond).

We recommend purchasing your tickets ahead of time though , so you can get the priority express lane and avoid any queues. Buy them for a discounted price here .

Once you’re done with the One World Observatory, you should head on immediately to the 9/11 Memorial Museum,  which is just around the corner.

This is one of those museums that’s regularly packed with people, so get as early as possible to try and beat the crowds that will undoubtedly form.

The 911 Memorial is a very memorable site, and it feels quite distressing to learn more about the event that completely shook the world. No matter your views, it’s a tragic part of history.

Despite the confronting imagery and stories, you can easily spend hours there, so be sure to take that into account when planning your New York City itinerary.

If you have a personal connection to the tragedy of 9/11, or just want to pay your respects, you might want to set aside an entire morning just for this place.

We’ve been to a lot of museums and memorials around the world, and the 911 Memorial was honestly one of the most well thought out and moving museums we have been to.

Once you’re finished, be sure to check out the 9/11 Memorial Site outside, as it’s also a fascinating attraction in its own right.

The 9/11 Museum is included in your New York CityPASS.

Spending 3 days in New York City without seeing the stunning architectural wonder of The Oculus would be a shame.

It’s a beautiful reimagining and replacement of the previous PATH train station that was destroyed during 9/11, and is only a few steps away from the 911 Memorial and museum site.

This futuristic train station also serves as a shopping mall and plaza, so you’ll surely spend a lot of time looking around.

It’s a great way to wind down before going out to grab a bite to eat and continue on with your exploration of New York City.

Day 1 – Afternoon

After you grab some lunch from one of the many diners around the area (or you can grab a hot dog or something quick on the go from the street vendors), it’s time to continue the sightseeing.

You’re sure to love the afternoon, as you’re going to visit one of the most famous places in the entire city.

Take a short walk to the southernmost part of Manhattan and the famous Battery Park, which is where tour ferries operate to take you to visit Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.

Battery Park has some amazing views of the waterfront and is a great place to stroll through.

Although it’s a generally relaxing place where many people simply walk around or chill out on the grass, you can also find a few attractions to visit.

There’s the Museum of Jewish Heritage and the Skyscraper Museum, which are great places to see in New York City if they pique your interest.

There are some unique artistic installations in Battery Park too, such as the beautiful sculpture called The Sphere.

Battery Park itself is free to enter, but some of the attractions have entrance fees.

If you’re just walking through Battery Park it will only take you a few minutes, then head down to the ferry dock and get ready to cruise over to the Statue of Liberty.

Visiting the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island will take most of your afternoon, but it’s one of the most satisfying places to see in the city.

The Statue of Liberty is one of those true New York City icons, with the famous ‘Lady Liberty’ representing freedom and opportunity for millions of overseas immigrants throughout the years.

Sent over as a gift to the US from France in the 19th century, the State of Liberty was dedicated on October 28th, 1886 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This is a must-do during your New York City itinerary. So get in line and use your New York CityPASS to grab your included ticket.

Everyone that embarks on the ferry to Liberty and Ellis Islands will have to pass through security, which as you can imagine is a very important deal here.

Once you’re on the boat it’s a quick trip over to Liberty Island, where you can jump off to walk around the famous statue, and even climb up to the viewing platform if you’d like.

The next stop is Ellis Island, home to a fascinating museum dedicated to the city’s history of immigration.

Even if you have no intention of going to Liberty Island, you’ll still have to stop there before going to Ellis Island.

This is one of the most popular and must see attractions in the city so be prepared for large crowds. Both Liberty Island and Ellis Island are great experiences, so make sure to give yourself adequate time to explore both of them.

Visiting the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island is included in your CityPASS!

Once you’re back from your great tour to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island it’s time to hit up another major New York City attraction – Wall Street!

You have no doubt heard of Wall Street, as it is the financial hub of the entire US and features in hundreds of Hollywood movies and TV shows.

So what is there to do on Wall Street?

First up spots like the statue of George Washington and the Federal Hall National Monument are pretty interesting sights to check out.

The New York Stock Exchange is another fascinating place to see on Wall Street, so you definitely shouldn’t skip out on it in your 3 days in New York City.

Unfortunately, you can’t enter the Stock Exchange (unless you are a registered stockbroker!), but the building itself is pretty impressive from the outside too.

But the number one thing to do on Wall Street is to get your photo with the famous Charging Bull!

This must see bronze sculpture is extremely popular (arguably one of the most iconic sculptures in the entire city), and you’ll find dozens of excited tourists crowded around trying to get their snap with the bull that represents market optimism.

If you’re feeling peckish at this point there are tonnes of other eateries around Wall Street, so grab a snack to take you into the evening.

Keen to learn more while you’re here? Definitely check out this fantastic tour with a Wall Street insider !

Day 1 – Evening

By now the sun should be getting low on the horizon, and it’s time to go check out New York’s funkier, hipster town away from the island of Manhattan – Brooklyn.

Starting from Wall Street it’s only a short walk to get to the Brooklyn Bridge on the east side of Lower Manhattan. And no NYC itinerary would be complete without walking it.

The pedestrian walkway is a little over a mile long and is kept separate from the zipping cars on your side, so you can wander across safely.

Once you start the walk over the Brooklyn Bridge you’ll probably want to take your time though for two reasons.

First, the crossing is something you’ll probably want to savour for the views. And second, the crowds on the Brooklyn Bridge are likely hectic (plus you’ll have to watch out for cyclists).

Crossing the Brooklyn Bridge is a perfect way to ease into the evening at the end of your first day in New York City.

Once you’ve made it over the Brooklyn Bridge, head to the west and start your exploration of the amazing borough of Brooklyn, which is one of the best places you must see when you visit New York in 3 days.

We’re going to start with walking around Brooklyn Bridge Park, which has been revitalised in recent times and is now one of the trendiest spots in town.

It stretches 85 acres along the Hudson River, on the west side of Brooklyn, and there are constant events happening there.

However as you’re there at night, the best thing to do is simply sit down and enjoy the view, which has some of the best vistas of the New York City skyline.

When you’ve finished taking pictures of the NYC skyline walk back to the other side of the Brooklyn Bridge and check out the cool area of DUMBO.

DUMBO (which stands for Down Under Manhattan Bridge Overpass) is a great neighbourhood to check out, and from here, you’ll have some of the finest views of both the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges.

The best thing to do when you are down here is simply walking around and soak in the atmosphere.

This is also the best spot to grab dinner before ending the first awesome day of your 3-day New York City itinerary.

Jump on the Subway to head back to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Day 2 – Morning

Make sure you set the alarm early today so you can have a nice breakfast, then continue your adventures in New York City.

We’re going to start the day with a pleasant walk through one of New York’s most surprising and chilled out places – The High Line. To get there take the Subway to 34th Street-Penn Station or 23rd Street Station and walk west.

The High Line is an attraction you wouldn’t want to miss, especially if your goal is to get away from the hustle and bustle New York City is known for a brief while.

This elevated pedestrian walkway is a public park built on what used to be an old freight rail line, and with its high platforms twisting around a small part of Manhattan it’s delightfully peaceful compared to the traffic below.

During the summer months, the High Line turns into a garden oasis of sorts, lined with plenty of gardens and flowers that are maintained by volunteers.

It’s a brilliant way to see a different side of New York City that is loved by locals and tourists alike. The walk won’t take you too long, and 30 minutes should be plenty of time to see most of it.

You can start your walk from a number of different entry points, but we began ours from the Hudson Yards railway area.

Grab a taxi or walk the 1 mile to the Empire State Building for a step back into New York history from atop one of the most famous buildings in the world.

The Empire State Building opens up at 8 am, and we recommend you arrive right around then to beat the crowds, as it’s one of the most popular attractions in New York.

A single hour can mean the entire difference between waiting in a long line or breezing right on in.

The Empire State Building is like the Statue of Liberty, in that it is an emblem that most people instantly associate with New York City, and it features in plenty of postcards and movies of Manhattan.

Use your New York CityPASS to skip the ticket line and head straight through the photo and story gallery, before jumping in an elevator to take you to the observation deck on the 102nd floor.

Gazing at the city under you from atop the Empire State Building observation deck is one of best things to do in New York City in 3 days.

As crazy, hectic and loud as New York City is, there’s a certain feeling of calmness as you’re looking at the sprawling city from way up in the sky.

Besides the views, you’ll also have the chance to learn all about the construction of what was the tallest building in the world when completed in 1931.

The whole experience should take you about an hour if you read all of the information dotted around the place. Don’t forget to climb to the very top of the observation deck for your photos.

Visiting the Empire State Building is included in your CityPASS!

Jump back on the Subway (B Line) and take a ride to the American Museum of Natural History – one of the most important museums in New York City.

This museum is one enormous complex comprised of over two dozen interconnected buildings.

It’s such a giant house of knowledge that even if you dedicate an entire year of your life, you still won’t have time to see everything in it.

The museum holds tens of millions of different items on display, and you’ll find some of the most fascinating bits of human and natural history here.

You’ll learn about Lucy, one of our ancestors from millions of years ago, as well as the Great Blue Whale, the rainforests, and so much more.

This museum is so massive and enthralling, you’ll want to stay for days. Our best recommendation to tackle it is to just pick a handful of exhibits that really interest you and focus on those, as you won’t be able to see everything in just a few hours.

Visiting the American Museum of Natural History is included in your CityPASS!

Day 2 – Afternoon

You can choose to grab lunch in the American Museum of Natural History, from one of the many street vendors scattered around the place, or wait until you wander over to The Met on the east side of Central Park, which is your next stop.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art (commonly referred to as ‘The Met’) is one of the most visited art galleries in the world and housed in a stunning building constructed in 1874.

The Met has over 250,000 works of art on display and it showcases over 5,000 years of art.

Here you’ll find works from Ancient Egypt, the Middle Ages, and even Japan, but also American Art from the 17 th century to the present day.

This museum is a place you can get lost in for hours and you’ll definitely want to go back again in the future to explore it a bit more.

This was honestly one of the best art galleries we have ever visited.

Visiting the Met is included in your CityPASS!

Considered as New York’s backyard, Central Park is absolutely one of the most iconic spots in the entire city.

After spending several hours in the nearby museums, you’ll definitely want to get out into nature and wander around this sprawling, scenic park.

Located right in the centre of Manhattan, in what is obviously prime and expensive real estate, it’s amazing to see that New York has prioritised keeping the city’s loveliest scenery.

From the Strawberry Fields, the Belvedere Castle, to the Zoo, there’s no shortage of things to see in Central Park.

No matter your plans for a trip to the Big Apple, you must see Central Park during your 3 days in New York City.

If you’re into shopping and fashion, then you absolutely need to visit the legendary Fifth Avenue, just across the road from the east side of Central Park.

You’ll find every kind of high-end fashion brand here, from Chanel to Luis Vuitton, and if your budget allows then you’ll probably end up walking away with something that will set you back way more money than you’ll want to think about.

Most tourists spend a lot of time just window-shopping this upper east side destination, as you’ll find some of the finest items in the entirety of New York City without having to spend a dime.

Day 2 – Evening

You’re probably tired after a massive day of sightseeing, but it’s not time to head to bed just yet, because there’s still plenty of amazing things to do on this New York City 3-day itinerary.

Visiting Broadway should be a must for any trip to NYC, and no matter how tired you are, always make sure to check a show if possible.

Here you’ll have some of the most memorable moments from your New York itinerary for 3 days.

However, if you do plan to catch a show, make sure you are well prepared because the best shows sometimes book out months in advance.

If you haven’t had a chance to grab tickets beforehand, or if you don’t have the budget to spend USD$200 for a show, check out the website Broadway for Broke People , where they have ticket lotteries every day.

After your Broadway show, you should definitely head on to Times Square, as it’s the place where New York’s energy truly comes to life.

It is not actually a square, but rather a spot where 7 th Avenue and Broadway intersect and create the surrounding four quarters.

No trip to NYC is complete without visiting Times Square, making it one of the most touristy spots in New York, and the bright lights are the main appeal for people who have constantly seen this place plastered all over TV screens.

You’ll find a lot of street performers working off tips, churches performing gospels, expensive but amazing restaurants, and so much more.

Even if you don’t want to take part in the current of people and energy, you can always sit down and watch the crowds of people.

To be completely honest we really disliked Times Square, as we felt it was just bright commercial lights with far too many advertisements and people around.

However we did a survey on our Instagram to see if anybody else liked the place and almost 50% said they loved Times Square, so head there for yourself and make your own judgment call.

Day 3 – Morning

Today is your last day in New York City and we’re going to spend exploring some of the best neighbourhoods in Manhattan to get a taste of what the city is really like.

If you don’t have breakfast already organised at your hotel we recommend holding off until you get to your first stop of the morning.

Jump on the Subway and make your way to Canal Street to check out Little Italy.

One of the most common misconceptions people have about Little Italy is that the only thing that’s worth visiting in the place is the amazing food.

In fact, there are plenty of things to see and do in Little Italy that are just as great as anywhere else.

Here, you will also find some of trendiest clothing stores in New York, as well as some of the best bars in the city.

If you’re lucky to catch the annual Feast of San Gennaro held during September, visiting Little Italy will definitely become one of your favourite things to do in New York.

No long weekend in New York is complete without visiting the famous Chinatown, and luckily it is just across Canal Street from Little Italy.

This is a popular spot for everyone as it includes history and community, as well as delicious food.

The entirety of this district feels like one giant attraction, which is very interesting to think about as it’s also the place where the largest Chinese community lives outside of Asia.

Here you’ll find a large number of genuine restaurants, quirky little shops, and street markets with a general sense of community.

Don’t forget to check out some of its many pharmacies to grab unique herbal remedies.

A short 15-minute walk from Chinatown is the City Hall of New York, which happens to be one of the oldest ones in the entire US.

It’s a stunning piece of architecture, and its style is one of the most iconic places in New York City. It’s appeared in a lot of movies and TV shows and is just as famous as many other landmarks in the city.

You can also enter the City Hall for a tour if you’d like, and learn more about its fascinating history.

You’ll find out about the inner workings of New York City’s government as well as the Mayor’s Office and the City Council’s office.

Day 3 – Afternoon

Jump back on the Subway and check out the West Village neighbourhood at the 9th Street Station, and legendary Greenwich Village.

Greenwich Village

Just like plenty of other locations in New York City, Greenwich Village has appeared in a lot of movies. So if you’re on a mission to visit all of the most famous spots in town, you’ll have to stop by.

The entire village used to be the rundown home of artists and bohemians in the 60’s, and it still counts as one of the trendiest spots in the city.

Today many of the ramshackle units have been replaced with trendy bars, cafes, and restaurants, and lots of amazing music venues, like at Bleecker Street, as well as plenty of unique architecture.

While you’re hanging out in Greenwich Village, why not spend a few hours at the Museum of Illusions in New York City?

This unique and captivating experience is perfect for visitors of all ages, with the museum designed to challenge your perceptions and play with your senses.

With a variety of interactive exhibits, optical illusions, holograms, and puzzles, the Museum of Illusions provides an engaging and educational experience that is both fun and intellectually stimulating.

Each exhibit is carefully crafted to explore the science behind visual and sensory perception, making it an excellent destination for families, tourists, and anyone with a curiosity for the mysteries of the mind.

The hands-on nature of the exhibits invites visitors to become a part of the art, creating memorable photo opportunities that are perfect for sharing on social media.

It’s an ideal spot for a fun day out, a creative date, or an exciting educational trip, making it a must-visit attraction in New York City.

It’s only a 5-minute walk to get to Washington Square Park, where you’ll be greeted by the beautiful marble arch, impressive fountain and lots of lovely, shady trees.

This is a spot where many of New York City’s avant-garde artists gather, a place for people to enjoy games of chess, and you’ll find plenty of joyful children running around.

The famous district of SoHo is quite close too if you didn’t get your shopping fix over on 5th Avenue yesterday.

Jump back on your favourite public transport system, the Subway, and make your way to Times Square to see the surprisingly realistic wax figures of Madame Tussauds (HOT TIP – pre-purchase your entrance ticket for a cheaper price here ).

There is something eerie about standing next to a lifelike sculpture of someone you’re used to reading about or maybe seeing on TV.

However, it’s not only merely about taking selfies with the wax figures as much as it’s about atmosphere and presentation.

Unlike most other types of museums, Madame Tussauds in fact encourages interactivity.

Don’t forget, instead of simply standing idly and looking at the figures from afar, you’re encouraged to touch them, take pictures and do all kinds of funny poses.

Day 3 – Evening

You’ll find no shortage of places to eat around Times Square, so grab your favourite dish before continuing with the exploring.

Your final evening in New York City is going to take you to some beautiful places to see at night, especially if you have to see the bright lights that make the city so unique.

Bryant Park, only a short distance from Times Square, is a relatively calm place considering it’s practically in the centre of Manhattan.

Here you’ll enjoy the huge lawn surrounded by lovely gardens, and it’ll almost feel like you’re in an oasis between the chaos of the city.

While it’s not as green and lush in the colder months, it’s one of the spots in New York City with the best Christmas decorations.

An ice-skating rink is a place you wouldn’t want to miss if you are planning your 3-day trip to New York City in winter.

If you’re trying to figure out what to do in New York City in 3 days and St. Patrick’s Cathedral is not on that list, then you’re missing out on something special.

The cathedral was originally constructed in the second half of the 19 th century in a beautiful (and striking) style. However, due to years of wear and tear, pollution, and acid rain the exterior started to crumble.

The city decided to renovate the gorgeous building, both on the inside and out, and the renovation itself cost around $200 million.

That might seem like a crazy amount of money, but once you step foot inside you’ll know that it was entirely worth it.

It’s a must-see spot that has a lot of intricacies in its design, but it’s also incredibly important, both spiritually and historically.

You absolutely must see it as the sun starts to set and the lights turn on.

Rockefeller Center, just south of Central Park on the east side of Manhattan, is one of the most well-known spots in all of New York City as it houses different and important studios for various networks and programs.

From the NBC building to the Radio City Music Hall and even the American Girls Doll Store, the Rockefeller Center is a place to easily get lost in.

This is also the place where the Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon is filmed, and you might be able to join the audience if you’re a fan for a live show.

However, the real reason to visit the Rockefeller Centre is to head to the top…

Use your New York CityPASS to grab a ticket to take you to the very top of the Rockefeller Center, a spot that has been cleverly dubbed the ‘Top of the Rock’ Observation Deck.

Enjoying a nice evening view of Manhattan from the Top of the Rock observation deck is the best way to end your 3 days in New York City itinerary.

It’s truly lovely to see more and more lights in Manhattan come to life just as the night starts to settle in. However make sure you give yourself lots of time to head up, as it’s quite popular in the evenings.

Overall, viewing New York from so high atop is one of the best ways to experience the city. We think the view from here is actually better than others because you can look at the iconic Empire State Building all lit up just across the way.

Visiting the Top of the Rock Observation Deck is included in your CityPASS!

Tips for Making the Most of Your New York City Itinerary

Now that we’ve shared with you the perfect 3 days in New York City itinerary, we also want to let you know some of our best travel tips to help you make the most of your holiday.

Buyinga New York CityPASS is by far our number one travel tip for any NYC itinerary. We’ve talked about it a lot in this article, and that’s because the New York CityPASS is just great value. For only USD$136 you’ll get access to some of the most popular attractions in the city.

This includes the Empire State Building, the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, Rockefeller Center Top of the Rock, a Statue of Liberty or Circle Line cruise, entrance to the Met as well as the American Museum of Natural History.

If you did all of these independently it would cost you $92 more, giving you a saving of 42%. Well worth it if you’re planning on seeing all the best things in this NYC itinerary.

Another great NYC itinerary travel tip is rather than buying single tickets for every single Subway journey, which will cost you $3 each time, grab yourself a MetroCard from the stations and save money in the long run.

You have to pay $5.50 for the card itself, but it is reusable and brings the cost of each fare down to $2.75. Plus for you get a 5% bonus each time you top it up.

So by adding $20 to the card, you actually get $21.

If you think you’ll be riding the Subway even more, or want to take buses too, you can get yourself a 7-day unlimited pass for $32. Great if you don’t feel like walking between sights, or are staying in New York City longer.

As you can tell from this NYC itinerary, your days are jam-packed, so make sure you start every day as early as possible to make the most of your 3 days in New York City.

This can of course be hard if you’re planning on hitting up some of the hundreds of awesome bars, clubs and speakeasies that the city is known for. But it’s worth laying off the expensive drinks if you have a limited time in town.

Walking around New York City can be crazy, and a couple of blocks may take a lot longer than you’d ever think because of all the people and traffic around.

But if you’re feeling fit and love to explore a city on foot, then New York is a great place to do it.

There are tonnes of excellent little shops, galleries, churches, bars and restaurants to be found if you simply wander around and keep your eyes open.

Another good resource for all things New York City is the NYC & Co website .

Where to Stay in New York City

There’s absolutely no shortage of accommodation in New York City, and the first thing you’ll need to do when deciding where to stay is to pick a Manhattan neighbourhood to use as a base.

It all depends on your budget and what you want to see when you’re in town, and there’s plenty of great articles online to help you decide which one suits you.

Best Accommodations in Town

We personally stayed in two different neighbourhoods – TriBeCa and Midtown West – and both are great options. TriBeCa feels a little more local, and has good access to the southern tip of Manhattan, while Midtown West is more central located on the west side of the island.

Staying downtown in Manhattan is always going to be expensive, but if you’re in a budget and still want to be in the heart of everything, then the absolute best hostel in town is Jazz on Columbus Circle .

It’s a small, boutique hostel and has been renovated to have modern amenities throughout. It has a funky vibe with some awesome decor, and the dorms are small with between 3-6 beds.

High-quality accommodation in New York City is not cheap, but the closest balance you can get between affordability and quality is at Pod 51 Hotel .

The rooms are no-frills, but clean, bright and more spacious than you might expect. The location is great, there’s fast wifi and an amazing rooftop garden to enjoy.

This is it – the top of the cream for hotels in New York that you can still get for well under $1000 a night.

The Library Collection has some of the best hotels all around the city, but our favourite is Hotel Giraffe. You’ll be treated like a king or queen here!

The rooms are enormous, breakfast is lovely, the hotel boasts some fantastic relaxing areas and lounges, but the best part is the 3-hour long wine & cheese receptions held every evening.

If it’s a special occasion in the city, splurge out and stay here for your 3 days in New York itinerary!

Hotel Review – YOTEL New York

We spent a couple of nights in the funky, futuristic YOTEL New York hotel in Midtown West, and it was one of the most interesting and unique places we’ve stayed in for a long time.

The YOTEL chain has been taking off around the world with its 21st-century approach to how hotels should be, introducing all kinds of elements such as computer check-ins, high tech rooms and even a robot to store your bags to make your stay pretty awesome.

If you also work online or need to conduct business while you’re travelling then you’ll love the co-working focus that YOTEL has.

Located a short walk from Times Square in one direction and the High Line in another, YOTEL New York is in a great spot and the building itself has some great hangout areas.

Once you check-in on the computers downstairs you head up the elevator to the 4th floor, which is the main hub of the property.

Here you’ll find a reception desk with staff ready to help you with any questions you might have and a large chill-out area with couches.

There’s also a couple of places to eat, drink and hang on this floor – The Green Fig for all your Middle Eastern fare, KOMYUNITI, the co-working space with a full cafe waiting to serve up coffee, and Green Room 42 for late-night parties and gigs.

This is also where you’ll be able to access The Terrace – one of the biggest rooftop terraces in all of New York City, with huge green spaces, lots of places to sit and even some games to entertain you such as mini-golf.

During the night it comes alive with guests mingling, sipping on cocktails and making the most of the beautiful New York evenings.

The rooms at YOTEL are known as Cabins and are the core of the futuristic side of things in this accommodation.

It starts with the bed, which is a super comfortable ‘SmartBed’, which you can adjust with a push of a button. It can go from upright positioning like a couch, flat for sleep mode and everything in between if you just want to lay down and read a book.

This is actually a great feature because the rooms in New York can be quite small, so by being able to turn the bed into a couch (without being a futon or fold-out) during the day gives you a lot of extra room.

The Smart TV connects to your phone and laptop so you can stream anything you want, and there’s plenty of charging hubs around the cabin.

The bathroom also makes the most of limited space, and the huge rain shower head is a great feature.

We really liked how bright the cabins were, and how they made use of limited space in really intelligent ways. The bed was amazingly comfortable and perfect for relaxing at the end of a big day exploring.

The chill-out spaces downstairs were also brilliant, and when we had to get some work done in between outings we’d much rather hang out there than in our rooms.

The wifi was also free and quite fast, which is great for us needing to work online and for anyone that likes to stay connected with their friends and family.

As great as YOTEL New York was, it wasn’t perfect, and there are a few things that we didn’t love about the place.

First up was the YOBOT, the futuristic robot that was used to store luggage. We arrived at the hotel before check-in and decided to use the YOBOT to store our luggage.

It was quite slow and there was a long line up of people doing the same thing. In the end, we stood in line for over 20 minutes, then when it finally came time for our turn the storage was full, so one of the helpers downstairs just took our bags and placed them out the back for a fee.

We felt like it was a huge waste of time, and even though the YOBOT was cool, it did seem kind of gimmicky. And we weren’t impressed that even though we were staying there we had to pay for luggage storage.

There’s also a ‘facility fee’ of USD$35 plus tax, which supposedly gives you some special features. These include access to the FOUR level, where the Terrace, bars and restaurants are, free wifi (not really ‘free’ then) and the use of the gym and co-working spaces.

Our issue with this is that anybody can access the FOUR level, even if they aren’t staying there, by just going up the elevator. The entire area is completely open to the public and you don’t need a room key to go up there. So essentially guests pay USD$35 for the same thing that anybody not staying there gets for free.

That being said we did talk to one of the managers there and they said they were planning on bringing in a bunch of extra features like free bike rental and other benefits to make the $35 worth the money.

At the end of the day, we did like YOTEL New York and would stay there again. The futuristic style was unlike anything we had seen before, and we can see many of these elements being brought into hotels around the world.

It is also pretty affordable for a hotel of this quality in what is a very popular area in one of the most expensive cities in the world.

If you want to stay in central Manhattan, be within walking distance of many great attractions and would like a funky, cool and comfortable place to rest your head at night, YOTEL is a great spot to stay for your 3 days in New York City.

Our trip to New York City was made in collaboration with ‘NYC and Company’. All thoughts, opinions and hours spent wandering the streets are, as always, our own.

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Kudos, for the incredible NYC insights! Following your advice, we savored the diverse cuisines in Hell’s Kitchen and marveled at the city lights from the Brooklyn Bridge. What a ride!

Nice Post. Thanks for writing the right information.

Thank you so much. Happy to help 🙂

Thanks for the information you shared about Romantic Places in New York City. I appreciate your efforts and taking the time and sharing this content.

The itinerary strikes a good balance between seeing the classic must-see sights and experiencing some of the lesser-known hidden gems of the city. However, as with any city as vast and dynamic as New York, it’s impossible to see everything in just three days. Visitors may need to prioritize based on their own interests and time constraints. Still, this is a valuable resource for anyone looking to make the most of their trip to New York City. Thanks!

Great information! Using it as a guide for my upcoming 3 days trip to NYC.

Happy the article could help. Have a great trip. 🙂

Thank you for taking your time and provide us with this helpful post.

Soon we will travel to New York and we already know a lot of things.

Glad the article was helpful. Have a great time in New York. 🙂

We have just returned from four days in New York and I just want to thank you so much for your itinerary. We followed it pretty much all the way and covered so much in ground and saw so many things. It was amazing. Thank you so much again!

Thanks for sharing this. I find it so help you.

Thank you SO much for such a great breakdown – I was worried 3 days would be impossible, but seeing how much you’ve fit in I’m feeling confident with some comfy shoes and a few coffees I can do this 😀

Hi Claire, NY is definitely overwhelming. We fitted a lot in when we were there. They were long days and a lot of walking but we thought “when are we going to be in NY again”. There is so much fun things to do. Have a wonderful time. Happy travels

Hi, thanks for the guide. We are planning our trip for April, so this will be really helpful. It sounds like a City Pass is the way to go! Jan

Hi Jan, that is exciting you are heading to NYC. It is such an incredible city with so much to do. When we were there, we had the city pass and it was so convenient. If you want to go to the locations that the city pass offers, then it is definitely worth it. As it was our first time visiting, it saved us money. Have a great time. Happy travels.

Hello and thanks for all the tips! We are going in April and I was trying to book a Crown visit for the Statue of Liberty. I saw somewhere you need to purchase tickets 4 months in advance but now I can’t find the site to do so. Plus I read a lot of scam sites. Do you recommend how to do this?

Hi Dannie, that is great you are heading to NYC. We never got book the crown visit for the Statue of Liberty. We only saw it from a cruise on the water. I went to the NYC Tourism Website ( https://www.nycgo.com/ ) and they link to the State of Liberty website here https://www.statueofliberty.org/statue-of-liberty/ . Maybe you could contact the State of Liberty and they may be able to help with your booking. Sorry we can not help. It would be an amazing view from the top. All the best and have a great trip.

Can you recommend any alterations to this itenirary if we choose to go around Christmas time?

Dawn, that is so exciting you are going there for Christmas. We would love to see NYC during the festive season one time. We only visited outside of the this time. We are not too sure about the Christmas activities that will be going on. This itinerary on our article would be good to follow and add in Christmas activities when you can. Have a great time.

Thanks on your marvelous posting! I seriously enjoyed reading it, you’re a great author. I will ensure that I bookmark your blog aand definitely will come back aat some point. I want to encourage yourself to continue your great job, have a nice weekend!

whoah this weblog is wonderful i really like studying your articles. Keeep up the good work! You already know, a lot of persons are lopoking round for this info, you can aiid them greatly.

Thanks for finally writing about > 3 Days in New York City – The PERFECT Itinerary (2020 Guide) < Liked it!

what an amazing city! now it is one of my favorite ones! i’ve been to different places but no city has impressed me as much as New York! I really like travelling and as the person who does it really often i can reccomend to everyone to use some car rental service to make the process much more comfortable!

So glad you enjoyed the city Michael. What was your favourite part of the city?

Hi, this is not a comment, just asking for advice which is the best time to visit New York? i suffer from arthritis so cant do winter, looking for inexpensive but comfortable accommodation in Manhattan for 4 people with a strict budget. Kind regards Pam from South Africa

Hi Pam, summer or spring sounds like a great time for you. Do give booking. com a look for the best budget rooms for the 4 of you. Here is the link – https://www.booking.com/district/us/new-york/manhattan.en-gb.html?aid=899664 Have a great tip. Happy travels.

your 3 day plan is great, however, if you could include the pricing of the attractions, will enable people to budget for the visit!!

Hi Pani, we purchased City Pass cards so all the attractions are included on this card. We feel it is the best way to see them all. You can even skip the lines sometimes if you have the card. Check out the card for yourself. 🙂 https://bit.ly/2ya654E

I am going with a group of 6 and we want to fast track the attractions with skip the lines access, etc. Does the City Pass allow this? Also, want to go to the crown of the statue of liberty. Is it worth that? And does City pass allow that?

Yes. You get to go in another line. I don’t know if it is the fast track line but we got in way faster than all the other people in the other line as we had a ticket all ready.

Just got back from nyc with my family (3 kids). I stumbled upon this blog when I started stressing about not having an itinerary of sorts. We followed it almost completely. Moved a few things around based off that we were there 3.5 days and our hotel location. But this was a lifesaver and helped us make the most of our time. I also like how it was a plan that used the city pass which we had already planned to use. Thanks!

Hi, Thank you for the information, this is really useful, but do think it would be still possible with 2 kids (2 & 5)? we will be there in Jul 24, booked in Staybridge hotel

Great article guys! I would also suggest a helicopter ride over the spectacular New York skyline, which is a sight to behold. These rides are absolutely safe for children as well; could be something of a mind-blowing experience for them.

Great information, thank you so much! I am going to New York this summer for a conference and hoping to use many of these tips during my free time, as it is the first time I am actually staying overnight in New York. I have the list of things I want to see while there, and this helped me to map the sights in my mind. Perfect timing with this detailed information!

Hi Anu – Riikka, we hope you have a great time. It is a big city and so much to do. Work out what you really want to do and concentrate on them. Happy travels

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3 Days in New York: The Ultimate Guide for 2024

My nyc itinerary for 3 days.

If you want to experience the best of New York in 3 days, this is the article for you. I’ve been to my favorite city more than 20 times and I’ve put together the most important sights, restaurants, stores, galleries and much more in this itinerary for 3 days in New York. My goal with this is for you to have a great time in the Big Apple, experience and see a lot, and still have enough time to just enjoy the city.

This could also be interesting for you

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Before we get started: since three days are not really much time, it makes sense to plan your time wisely and, for example, buy your tickets in advance to save time when you’re there. Another option is to buy one of the New York sightseeing passes . With a pass you are best prepared AND you can save even more money!

Table of Contents

NYC Itinerary: Day One

Day one of our three-day itinerary focuses on Midtown Manhattan and the must-see attractions, from parks and buildings to observation decks and museums.

The Perfect First Morning in NYC

01 Start Your Day in Central Park!

Central Park is an attraction that every NYC visitor must see. Not only is the park a sprawling, gorgeous natural oasis in the middle of a busy city, but it’s also full of history, folklore, and character.

However, considering Central Park encompasses 843 acres, seeing everything in one visit is nearly impossible. For your first trip, we’ve included two stops to explore.

First is Bow Bridge , arguably the park’s most famous landmark. This bridge has been featured in many movies and is popular with locals and tourists alike. Then, you will head over to the Bethesda Terrace , where you will find one of the first structures constructed in Central Park. In this area, you will find lots of history, street performers, Instagram stars, and more.

Choose Between Two of The Best Museums!

As a note: New York may be one of the best cities in the world for museums. In fact, we’ve outlined all of our favorite New York museums here. With your 2-day NYC itinerary, however, we know you don’t have time to visit them all, so we’re recommending two of the best here.

02 Option A: Metropolitan Museum of Art

After Central Park, we are providing you with two options, of which the first is the Metropolitan Museum of Art. More commonly known as The Met, this museum is the largest art museum in the country and is also one of the largest art museums in the world. It is home to a permanent collection of more than two million works of art that are divided into 17 curatorial departments. The museum was founded in 1870 with the mission of bringing art and education to the American people. Located near Central Park, here you will find a permanent collection of works from ancient Egypt and classical antiquity, sculptures and paintings from nearly every European Master, and a large collection of modern and American art.

03 Option B: Museum of Modern Art

Your other option is to visit the MoMA or Museum of Modern Art. This museum is located in Midtown Manhattan and is home to more than 300,000 exhibition catalogs and books, 40,000 files of ephemera about groups and individual artists, and over 1,000 periodical titles. In fact, the MoMA plays a significant role in collecting and developing modern art, making it one of the world’s most influential modern art museums. It’s also one of the world’s most visited museums, making it a must-see attraction in NYC.

04 Stroll Down Millionaire's Row

Even if you’ve never visited NYC, you have heard of 5th Avenue. It’s been deemed the most expensive and famous shopping district in the world, and for a good reason! Just walking down this main thoroughfare that connects Upper Manhattan to Lower Manhattan gives you a feeling like nowhere else in the world!

From world-famous restaurants to high-end luxury shops and everything in between – you’ll find it on 5th Avenue! So, for day one of our itinerary, you will spend a bit of time taking in the sights and tastes of 5th Avenue before moving on with your day.

05 Visit the Rockefeller Center

You simply cannot visit New York City and not see Rockefeller Center, even if just for a short time. This national historic landmark is situated in the heart of Midtown Manhattan and comprises 19 buildings across 22 acres. This complex is home to NBC Studios, Top of the Rock Observation Deck, Radio City Music Hall, and much more. So, here you can simply take a stroll and enjoy the many sights and sounds of Rockefeller Center, or you have many options for activities such as shopping and dining. One thing I will reiterate is that if you plan to visit the Top of the Rock, you should book tickets in advance to save time on day one.

You can find out more about Rockefeller Center at their official website.

06 Marvel at St. Patrick's Cathedral

NYC is home to many gorgeous architectural styles, but some structures just stand out more than others. One such structure is the St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Midtown Manhattan. This building is the end result of centuries of planning, hard work, and refurbishing, but it captures the admiration and attention of every person who passes by. Constructed in 1878, this Cathedral is one of the largest Gothic Revival Catholic cathedrals in America. Given that this building is located right across from Rockefeller Center, there’s no better time to marvel at this beautiful building and snap some pictures to capture the memory!

For more on the history of this Catholic cathedral in Manhattan, visit their official website .

07 Take a Break in Bryant Park

Bryant Park is located between Fifth and Sixth Avenues in Midtown Manhattan and covers just over 9 acres. One of the largest features in the park is the large lawn that’s situated just below the surrounding pathways. Aside from serving as a lunch spot for office workers, this area is also seating for major events hosted here, like Broadway in Bryant Park, Bryant Park Movie Nights, and Square Dance. While in Bryant Park , be sure to watch for numerous sculptures placed around the property and take a ride on the iconic Carousel before heading to your next stop.

The Perfect First Afternoon in NYC

01 Visit The Impressive New York Public Library

And Bryant Park also brings us to the next stop: the New York Public Library. In fact, the main branch of the system is housed within this park. Easily recognizable by the lion statues out front, the Main Branch was constructed in 1911 and is one of four research libraries within the library system.

The building is open to the public, but wear your walking shoes if you go inside. The structure is four stories tall and is said to contain more than 2.5 million volumes in its collection. Still, even if you do not venture far inside, just seeing the New York Public Library in Bryant Park is exhilarating!

For more on the NYPL, including upcoming events, you can visit their site .

02 Stop by Macy's

Macy’s Herald Square location in Midtown is the flagship store for the company and serves as Macy’s corporate headquarters. The building spans an entire city block and encompasses over 2.5 million square feet, of which 1.25 million square feet is retail space.

Thus, this is your opportunity to visit the largest department store in the U.S. and one of the largest in the world. Not only can you shop until you drop, browsing some of the most iconic brands, but there are also many places to grab food. Moreover, during the holidays, Macy’s Herald Square location is an excellent place to catch the Macy’s Day Parade or simply look at the holiday window displays.

For more information you can visit Macy’s official website .

03 Marvel at Manhattan from the waterside

This Circle Line cruise will take you past NYC’s most famous attractions and landmarks. You will head past the Statue of Liberty, the One World Trade Center, the Empire State Building, Ellis Island, the Brooklyn Bridge, amd much much more. If you are looking to explore Manhattan from the water and learn some of the history of NYC at the same time, this is definitely the cruise for you. At a lenght of approximately 1.5 hours, this cruise will take you half way around the Island of Manhattan as well as once around the Statue of Liberty for the ultimate photo opportunity.

04 Spend Some Time at The Remarkable Hudson Yards

There’s no better time to visit Hudson Yards, now that it’s gotten a face-lift and is home to a state-of-the-art building facility. At 28 acres, Hudson Yards is larger than Rockefeller Center and boasts an impressive neighborhood that is fun to experience. While here, you will find a hotel, monumental sculpture, art space, offices, restaurants, residences, a mall, an observation deck, and 14 acres of green public space. Regardless if you just stop by Hudson Yards to browse and say you’ve been there or shop and have a meal, this is one NYC attraction you don’t want to miss!

There are two amazing attractions in Hudson Yards, and you will choose one for the sake of this three-day NYC itinerary.

Option A: The Edge The first option is The Edge, and, trust me, you will not experience NYC like this anywhere else in the city! Edge is the Western Hemisphere’s highest outdoor sky deck that features a unique, one-of-a-kind design. Suspended in mid-air, Edge gives you the feeling of floating in the sky. When you combine this with the 360-degree views of New York, it’s understandable why this is one of the area’s most-visited attractions. Just keep in mind that this option may not be best for those with a fear of heights, as The Edge allows you to peer 100 stories below from the glass floor.

Option B: The Shed If heights are not your thing, the other unique experience at Hudson Yards is The Shed. This cultural center commissions original artwork for all audiences across all disciplines. The Shed combines emerging and established artists in fields ranging from classical music to hip hop, digital media to painting, literature to theater, and dance to sculpture in a unique moveable structure that can adapt to support many inventive types of art in one building. The Shed is located at 15 Hudson Yards and borders the Gardens and Public Square. And even if you don’t go inside to see the exhibits of these attractions , just know that Edge and The Shed both feature innovative building techniques that are wonderful to marvel at from the outside.

For more on everything related to the Hudson Yards, visit their official website .

05 Wander Above The Streets at The High Line

Continuing on day one, the next stop is NYC’s High Line. Built atop a defunct viaduct section of the New York Rail System, you will find the High Line, which is an elevated linear greenway and park. The park is 1.45 miles long and will take you from Hudson Yards through Chelsea to the Meatpacking District. Here you will find artwork, lush horticulture, community events, seasonal food vendors, and unique views of the city skyline and Hudson River.

If you want to make even more out of your time around the High Line, stop at the Chelsea Piers and take a cruise.

To discover more about this elevated landscape on the West Side of Manhattan, visit the High Line’s official website .

06 Visit Little Island, a Park on The Hudson River

As you make your way into Chelsea and the Meatpacking District, you’ll find an artificial island park called Little Island.

Situated on the Hudson River, Little Island opened in 2021 to serve as an oasis for New Yorkers. With over two acres of distinctive architecture, magnificent landscaping, free programs, and dazzling views, Little Island is not like any other park you’ve visited. Here you can enjoy the gorgeous scenery, grab food from local vendors, or play the various games and activities that are placed around the island. Entrance is free, and Little Island is a great place to reflect on the day for a few minutes.

For more about Little Island, including upcoming events, check out their official website .

07 Come to Union Square

As you head back toward 5th Avenue, you will find your next stop: Union Square. This is not just another neighborhood. It is a park where Flatiron, Gramercy, and East Village meet. From the famed George Washington on horseback statue to the Union Square Greenmarket, Fotografiska, and the various local eateries and shops, Union Square is a bustling centrally-located attraction that has much to offer. Tourists and locals alike enjoy spending time around Union Square, and this is also an excellent place to catch street performers and other entertainment. Don’t forget to stop by Breads Bakery and get one of their iconic buttery croissants before moving on!

For a full list of restaurants, bars, and a calendar of events, visit Union Square’s official website .

08 Come to Flatiron Building and Madison Square Park

Madison Square Park is named after America’s fourth President, James Madison, and is most famous for providing the name of the iconic sports arena Madison Square Garden. The park is located at the northern end of the Flatiron District and is a public park that encompasses over six acres in the heart of NYC. Perhaps the coolest thing about this park is that it has been a public space since 1686!

This is a must-stop location for day one, as you’ll have spectacular views of many famous buildings such as the Flatiron Building, New York Life Building, the Toy Center, Appellate Division Courthouse, One Madison Park, and the MetLife Tower.

For more information visit the official website of Madison Square Park .

09 A New York City Must-See: The Empire State Building

As you continue on the trek, enjoy the sights and sounds of 5th Avenue as you head toward Times Square. Yet, before you make it there, be sure to stop out front of the Empire State Building. Once the tallest building in the world, this towering structure is home to an observatory on the 102nd floor. And it’s a good thing the building is equipped with 73 elevators. Otherwise, you would have to climb 1,872 stairs to reach the top. Of course, going inside the Empire State Building is optional, but at the very least, stop by and take a few pictures out front!

For more information about the building and the kinds of tickets available, visit our guide about the Empire State Building .

10 End Your First Day Surrounded by Colorful Lights at Times Square

Times Square is one of NYC’s most popular tourist attractions and is the epicenter of all things media. So, it’s only fitting that you visit this area on the first day of your trip. Depending on what time of the day you make it to Times Square, strolling through the area, you may find it illuminated under the bright lights of the night or during the day with its digital billboards and skyscrapers looming above.

Either way, Times Square is impressive and a place everyone should experience at least once in their lives. When visiting Times Square, consider catching a Broadway show at one of the many local theaters!

11 Soak up One Last View of NYC

Finishing out day one of your trip, we are providing you with two options for your last attraction of the day.

Option A: Summit One Vanderbilt (my favorite observation deck in NYC!) First, check out the Summit One Vanderbilt, which is, hands down, the best observation deck in NYC! Located on the top three floors of one of Manhattan’s tallest skyscrapers is a multi-sensory, immersive experience that combines floor-to-ceiling mirrors with art installations and amazing views. Summit One Vanderbilt is a different experience than what you get with any of NYC’s other observation decks. And this is a good thing! Of course, if you’re feeling really adventurous, you can also take part in Ascent, which is the largest external glass-bottomed elevator in the world.

You can find more information in our guide about the Summit One Vanderbilt observation decks , including info about tickets.

Option B: The Refinery Rooftop The Refinery Rooftop is a fan favorite for both tourists and locals alike. Located on top of the Refinery Hotel, this coveted spot offers awe-inspiring views of the Empire State Building and the NYC skyline. By day, the Refinery Rooftop is a melange of fashion, culture, and culinary delights as chef Jeff Haskell prepares a full lunch menu with options like Seared Yellowfin Tuna and Little Gem Caesar salads. At night, which is around the time you’ll probably arrive, the Refinery Rooftop is transformed into a more lively place to sip on some signature cocktails. Regardless of which option you choose, both attractions offer spectacular city views and overall experiences.

Check out the menu and make your reservations at the Refinery Rooftop here .

NYC Itinerary: Day Two

Moving a bit south, day two of the itinerary focuses on Lower Manhattan, primarily the areas just south of Gramercy Park to Chinatown . From shopping, cafes, and unique neighborhoods to Union Square and the Meatpacking district , let’s take a look at day two.

Start into Your Second Day

01 Enjoy a Delicious Breakfast in the West Village

To kick off your second day, the tour will begin in the West Village. This is a popular attraction thanks to its trendy restaurants and designer boutiques. Yet, the other draw to this area is the quaint streets, some of which are still made from cobblestone. Here you’ll find Federal-style townhouses lining the streets that are dotted with public spaces. Though West Village is historically artsy and home to many cabarets, theaters, and piano bars that are busy at night, during the day, it’s a whole different atmosphere.

Given that you will be here first thing in the morning, stop by Dante West Village for breakfast and then browse the shops before stopping by a cafe for a snack or tasty beverage.

02 Take a Walk in Greenwich Village

Heading west from West Village to Greenwich Village , you’ll be entering one of NYC’s most historically wealthy areas. This neighborhood is highly coveted thanks to its appealing architecture that spans every decade.

When in the area, don’t forget to look for the famed Friends apartment building and check out Washington Square Park . One of the city’s most beloved parks, Washington Square Park is much smaller than Central Park, only covering about 10 acres. Here you will find a wide array of people from all walks of life. From families and NYU students to poets, artists, chess players, and musicians, you really never know who you will see here!

03 Explore the Neighborhoods of SoHo, Little Italy and Chinatown

• SoHo Located just Northeast of Greenwich Village is the ever-popular SoHo neighborhood. Here you’ll find lots of shopping and dining options. From fancy chain stores and designer boutiques to art galleries and more, SoHo is a common shopping destination for out-of-towners. Admired for its elegant cast-iron building facades and cobblestone streets, this area is a magnet for fashionable crowds who gather at restaurants and nightlife spots. You will be visiting SoHo during the day, so prepare to fill your time shopping, and don’t forget to check out the street vendors who offer everything from original artwork to jewelry.
• Little Italy The next stop on day two is Little Italy. This location is usually included on every tourist’s must-see list because it offers a romantic, old-world New York atmosphere that is world-famous and features authentic Italian dishes that cannot be beaten. At one time, Little Italy stressed from Houston to Canal Streets, between the Bowery and Lafayette Street, as immigrants from Sicily and Naples flooded the neighborhood in the 1880s. Today, Little Italy is primarily confined to the blocks around Mulberry Street. Nonetheless, here you will find some of the trendiest clothing shops and best bars in the city.
• Chinatown Home to many Asian immigrants, New York City’s Chinatown is one of the most evocative neighborhoods in the city. Walking its narrow, busy streets reveals surprise after surprise. Marvel at sights like Chatham Square’s statue of Lin Zexu, a Qing dynasty official credited with leading the fight against Britain’s illegal opium importation. Then, keep walking and check out the unique pagoda-style roofs and the Buddhist Temple. Many tourists also venture over to Doyers Street, where you’ll find speakeasies and basement bars that will make you think it’s the 1920s all over again. Bring your appetite and work your way through dumpling dens, dim sum palaces, and noodle joints.

Your Second Afternoon

01 Discover the Lower East Side

The Lower East Side is an eclectic Manhattan neighborhood where tenement-style buildings and gritty alleys mix with chic boutiques and upscale apartments. If you want to visit this area at night, you’ll find it draws young, hip crowds with local music venues, restaurants, and trendy bars. During the day, take in the city’s Jewish heritage as you pass by the Tenement Museum and old-world fabric stores.

Finish out your time in the Lower East Side by stopping at Katz’s Delicatessen and Yonah Schimmel’s Knish . These two restaurants have been in the city for decades and offer up the freshest and tastiest Jewish delicacies and comfort food – you will not be disappointed!

02 Another beautiful neighborhood: The East Village

Heading north toward NoHo is East Village. Once the birthplace of punk rock music, today, East Village is still an artsy section of town, as it is home to many music venues, comedy clubs, and theaters. While in East Village, stop by Astor Place, which was named after John Jacob Astor, America’s richest man at one time. This is a cool area that is famous for the Joseph Papp Public Theatre and the Blue Man Group.

Of course, Astor Place and East Village are both home to some wonderful restaurants and cafes to enjoy while in the neighborhood.

03 Come back to Union Square

As you make your way back toward Greenwich Village, the next stop is another visit to Union Square. Union Square NYC is the heart of everything that happens and is one of the best places to experience everything the city has to offer.

Use this visit to do something different than you did on day one. Perhaps you can go to 14th Street and spend an hour or two strolling, shopping, and dining. Regardless of what you choose to do, Union Square is home to many businesses, from restaurants and bars to shopping, lodging, and theaters.

04 Get to know the glamorous Meatpacking District

Once a neighborhood full of factories and slaughterhouses, NYC’s Meatpacking District has transformed into one of the city’s most glamorous neighborhoods. This luxury destination is home to stylish restaurants, trendy hotels, and luxe clubs. Along the historic cobblestone streets, you’ll also find many upscale salons and boutiques, as well as world-class attractions like the High Line and the Whitney Museum of American Art.

While here, stop at the Sugar Factory, Chelsea Market, or venture over to the Gansevoort Market, where you’ll find a food area and farmer’s market that have been in NYC since 1884. The Meatpacking District is a wonderful place to grab a bite to eat, sip on a signature cocktail, or simply take in the sights of one of the local area attractions like the High Line.

05 Let the day end on Bleecker Street

To finish out an amazing day two of your trip, spend the evening on Bleecker Street. This is basically a one-mile stretch of road that starts in the West Village and runs to Greenwich Village. Bleecker Street is a great way to spend an evening because it is home to so many tasty restaurants, including one of my personal favorites, Dante’s NYC . However, if the tastes of Dante’s aren’t right for you, no worries – Bleecker Street is home to many restaurants, bars, clubs, theaters, art galleries, hotels, and more. In fact, here you will find NYC’s oldest rock and roll club known as The Bitter End , and one of the most authentic blues clubs in the city, Terra Blues.

NYC Itinerary: Day Three

Welcome to day three of your three-day NYC trip! Today will focus on some of New York City’s most famous and iconic landmarks. From Tribeca and the Statue of Liberty to DUMBO and Brooklyn, let’s take a look at day three.

Start Your Third Day in NYC

01 Take a Stroll Around Tribeca

Tribeca is one of NYC’s most hip areas and is renowned for its old industrial buildings that now serve as residential loft spaces. The area’s cobblestone streets are lined with trendy restaurants and boutiques, and you’ll find historical buildings such as the 1884 red-brick New York Mercantile Exchange. Families and other visitors enjoy quiet weekends along the Hudson River and through Washington Market Park.

If you’re lucky, perhaps the Tribeca Film Festival will be taking place, which is held here in the spring each year. Regardless, Tribeca is full of NYC charm, architecture, and other unique sights to see.

02 Take Some Time at 9/11 Memorial & Museum

The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, are forever etched in the minds of people around the world, but especially in New York City. Your second stop on day three is the 9/11 National Memorial and Museum .

Here you can pay your respects to those who were lost that fateful day, spend quiet time gathering your thoughts around the reflection pools, and view some of the artifacts saved from that day. In fact, you can check out the Survivor’s Stairs, pieces of the aircraft, damaged steel beams, the Survivor’s Tree, and much more. Just remember that this attraction does get busy, so the earlier you arrive at this stop, the better.

03 Enjoy a Breathtaking View From One World Observatory

Next up, you’ll enjoy the breathtaking views of Lower Manhattan from the One World Observatory.

Once you enter the building, you begin an ascent to the 102nd floor, where the deck is located. As you travel up the building, you are placed in a lift that is covered by screens and depicts an amazing time-lapse of New York City’s evolution from its founding as a 17th Century Dutch colony to the present-day marvel that it is. At the top of the skyscraper, which is the tallest building in NYC, you’ll enter the Observatory and enjoy views of New York that you won’t find anywhere else.

For more information about the One World Observatory, including information about tickets, head to our complete guide .

Make The Most of Your Last Afternoon

01 Say Hello to Lady Liberty

Arguably two of the most famous landmarks in the world, you cannot visit NYC for the first time and not see the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. The place where so many immigrants began their American dreams and the perfect gift from France, these two attractions have long been a draw for many tourists in NYC. Regardless if you just arrive at the area and marvel from afar or plan visits to both Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty, which is located on Liberty Island, you will not be disappointed.

If you are feeling extra adventurous, sign up for the Hard Hat Tour of Ellis Island, which gives you a tour of the Ellis Island Hospital, where some 275,000 immigrants were treated as they entered the country. Defunct since 1951, the hospital has fallen into disrepair, and the tour is a way to Save the Ellis Island Hospital.

02 Visit The World's Most Famous Financial District

After seeing what American dreams are made of, it’s time to head toward another infamous landmark: Wall Street.

Located in the heart of New York City’s Financial District, Wall Street is famous for the Charging Bull statue and the New York Stock Exchange building. As you stroll down this famous street, also be sure to check out the Fearless Girl statue in front of the NYSE building, Federal Hall with its famous statue of George Washington, and then stop by Trinity Church for a free tour if you’d like.

Once the sights on Wall Street are over, you can enjoy a quick bite to eat or grab a drink at one of the many cafes and restaurants in the area.

03 Take Some Classic NYC Pictures on Brooklyn Bridge

The legendary Brooklyn Bridge was constructed from 1869 until 1883 and was designed by John A. Roebling. When it was built, the Brooklyn Bridge was the world’s longest suspension bridge and the first bridge to use steel as cable wire. This bridge connects Manhattan to Brooklyn and spans the East River. This is a must-see attraction that is known for its beloved stone arches.

Just beware, it accommodates six lanes of traffic as well as a bicycle and a pedestrian path. It is estimated that the Brooklyn Bridge is used daily by 30,000 pedestrians, 3,000 cyclists, and 116,000 vehicles.

04 Enjoy Amazing Views of The Manhattan Skyline From Brooklyn Bridge Park

Brooklyn Bridge Park has something for everyone. Whether you want to explore the rich ecology, sweeping vistas, vibrant programming, or expansive piers, you’ll find it here. Spanning 85 acres, this waterfront park features riverfront promenades, rolling hills, lush gardens, and dazzling city views.

Quite simply, if you are visiting NYC for the first time and planning to see the Brooklyn Bridge, do not miss this accompanying park. Spend a few minutes relaxing by the waterfront or engage in a fun game of bocce ball, basketball, or handball. No matter what you choose to do, Brooklyn Bridge Park is a treasure that you have to see!

For more on what you can do while you’re at the park, including upcoming events, visit their official website .

05 Take a Picture of The Manhattan Bridge in DUMBO

Now that you are on the Brooklyn side of the bridge, it’s time to check out the Manhattan Bridge view from DUMBO. If you are wondering what DUMBO stands for, it means “Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass.” Situated along Washington Street, you’ll find the Manhattan Bridge viewpoint. This is hands down the best view of this bridge that you’ll find in the city and makes for the perfect photo-op backdrop. The bridge view, combined with the tree-lined cobblestone streets and red brick buildings, provides one of NYC’s best places to take photos and create memories.

Here’s a pro tip: look directly beneath the bridge, and you’ll see the Empire State Building peeking through!

06 Explore Some of The Best Restaurants at Time Out Market

All of this walking and sightseeing may have made you a bit famished, but not to worry, DUMBO is home to the Time Out Market. You’ve never experienced a food court quite like this before! First of all, having so many food options you can eat at the same place is amazing! But when you consider how different your family’s tastes are, it’s so wonderful for everyone to enjoy what they want. From Asian fusion, barbecue, and Indian to bakeries, healthy options, and other specialty restaurants, you can find nearly every type of dish here! The bonus is that the Time Out Market is located on the fifth floor of the building, so you can see the East River, Brooklyn Bridge, and Manhattan Bridge right from the terrace!

Get ready to visit Brooklyn’s Time Out Market by checking the full list of dining and drinking options here.

07 Take The NYC Ferry Back to Manhattan

There’s no doubt you may be tired of walking by this point of day three, so we’re going to give you a break.

One of the last stops on your final day is taking a ride on the NYC Ferry back to Manhattan. Rather than walking across the Brooklyn Bridge again, hop on the ferry and enjoy the ride back to either Wall Street or Pier 11. If you’re not a fan of the ferry, you can also rent a bike at Citi Bike and ride over the Manhattan Bridge. Regardless of which “ride” you take back to Manhattan, this is an excellent way to see some additional sights as you close out your final day.

08 Let The Day End in The Lower East Side

East Village and the Lower East Side both make wonderful options for some nightlife activities. In fact, these are some of the most famed nightlife spots in the city! The bar scene is phenomenal, as they have cocktail lounges, dive bars, speakeasies, and karaoke bars. Then, if it’s dinner or a late-night snack you want, that’s here too! Though some come for the Japanese food of bars, others flock to this area for the eclectic mix of people who attend the area’s many nightclubs.

Whether you enjoy a quiet night at a cocktail lounge or a wild night at The Pyramid Club, have fun and enjoy your last night in the Big Apple.

Tips for Visiting NYC for the First Time

New York City is an amazing Megacity that can be quite overwhelming even for locals. Yet, the good news is that New Yorkers are busy, but they are also very helpful. Traffic cops and signs are always present to guide you, but with a few tips and tricks, your NYC visit can be as hassle-free as visiting the store near your house. Here are our tips for visiting NYC for the first time.

• Pack Comfortable Shoes If you are traveling to the Big Apple and plan to follow our itinerary, be sure to pack comfortable shoes. This is non-negotiable because you will do a ton of walking! After all, it’s the greatest city in the world, so who wants to be stuck in a car?
• Pay Attention Not only can NYC streets be dirty, but you never know who or what you may run into on the street. Remaining vigilant and aware of your surroundings will keep you safe and ensure you have a great first trip.
• Invest in Passes Before you arrive in the city, it’s best to have a clear plan for what you will see and do. Buying a New York CityPASS and subway pass will not only save you money but a great deal of time as well.
• Stay Close to Transportation The last thing you want is to be located far away from the primary types of transportation, i.e., the subway. Traffic is horrendous, and to make the most out of your three days, you will want to quickly access different parts of the city.
• Research Places to Eat Yes, NYC is full of Michelin-star-rated eateries, but it’s also home to many hole-in-the-walls, local restaurants, and food trucks. Before arriving in the city, take some time to research places to eat near your hotel and on your tour route. Doing this is a great way to save money on food or at least prevent going over budget.
• Live in the Moment NYC is one of the world’s most vibrant cities. So, while you are there, save a bit of time to just stop and live in the moment. Take videos and pictures, but remember to see New York City with your eyes as well!

Where to Stay

As you would imagine, there are many wonderful places to stay in the Big Apple. However, before you book a super luxe Upper Midtown hotel, you should know that it takes about twenty minutes to get to Midtown Manhattan.

Still, the truth is that every NYC neighborhood offers a unique and distinct style and personality. From trendy or luxurious to family-friendly. Hence, it can be challenging to pick the perfect lodging destination. Depending on your preferences, travel style, and who you are visiting with, you may decide to avoid some areas to make your trip more memorable.

That said, you still want to enjoy what NYC has to offer. So, it’s probably best if you choose a place that is centrally located. Here are our top three neighborhoods to stay in NYC during a short trip:

Option 1: Midtown Manhattan

If you are like most people, then you want to spend your first time in the city seeing the places you have been watching on TV and in movies for years. The part of Manhattan that you usually see depicted is Midtown. Midtown is where you will find most of the iconic buildings, and the location is central, so getting anywhere in the city is easy. It is important to note that because Midtown is home to so many tourist attractions, it’s always crowded and busy. Yet, it’s a great area to stay for first-time travelers because there are hotels to fit every budget.

Find the best hotels in Midtown Manhattan and everything you need to know about this neighborhood in my guide about Midtown Manhattan .

Option 2: Financial District

NYC is often referred to as the world’s financial capital, and the Financial District serves as its epicenter. This lower Manhattan neighborhood is home to Wall Street and the New York Stock Exchange and is where business travelers are commonly found. First-time travelers enjoy the Financial District because it is a business-centric area that is steeped in history. In fact, some of the historic restaurants, bars, and cobblestone streets date back to the 1800s.  Staying in the Financial District puts you close to the 9/11 Memorial, One World Trade Center, Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty and so much more!

Find the best hotels in the Financial District and everything you need to know in my guide about the Financial District in New York .

Option 3: SoHo

SoHo, or South of Houston Street, is where you will find many shops, art galleries, designer boutiques, and cobblestone streets. The good thing about staying in this district is that it’s more of a residential area, so there are fewer crowds. So, while everyone else is waiting to access landmarks, you can enjoy some of the art galleries and shops. If you are visiting NYC for the first time and are a pizza enthusiast or fashionista, then this is where you want to be! Just be sure that your phone is fully charged for endless photo ops and possible celebrity sightings!

Sounds like you? Then check out my hotel tips for Soho and my neighborhood guide for SoHo in New York here!

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I'm a true New York fan! Not only have I visited the city over 25 times but also have I spent several months here at a time. On my blog I show you the best and most beautiful spots of the city, so that you have a really good time! You can also find lots of insider tips in our New York travel guide . Also check out my hotel finder for New York !

Hole dir deine wöchentliche Dosis New York mit meinem Loving New York-Newsletter! Er ist vollgestopft mit den neuesten Artikeln, Videos, Erfahrungsberichten und allem, was gerade Interessantes und Wissenswertes im Big Apple passiert.

Ich selbst war über 25x in meiner Lieblingsstadt und möchte dir mit meinen Emails dabei helfen, eine sensationelle Zeit vor Ort zu haben.

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Visiting New York in

What to expect, getting around.

• Things to do

With year-around events and fun and historical attractions, New York City offers something for everyone any time of the year. Visiting NYC in February can be opportune as it will not be as crowded as during Thanksgiving and Christmas, and it will not be as hot as during the summer months. Late February can enjoy slightly higher temperatures in the mid-40s. There is an average of three snow days, wherein there is a snowfall of at least one inch.

• Average Daytime Temperatures: 41F (5C)
• Average Overnight Temperatures: 29F (-2C)
• Sunny or partly sunny days: 17
• Rainy days: 9-10, 3 with significant rainfall

What to wear

• Be sure to dress in layers with warm boots, mittens and ear muffs
• A solid winter jacket and a hat will help top everything off
• The stores will be warm, but the streets may be cold and possibly windy or snowy

New York Prices in February

February is a good time to visit New York City on a budget because the hotel prices are lower, as this is more of an off-season time in the city. The crowds are lower, and while it can still be pretty chilly, you will be warmed by the great deals on lodging. If you are flying in, there are also discounts on flights.

Book your flights and accommodation in advance for best prices, midtown & times square are the most popular choices, but there are plenty of other options, especially in Brooklyn with convenient transport options to Manhattan attractions.

Planning your trip is a key to a balanced budget, use free online resources like our maps & guide or the itinerary tool, if you are going to visit some iconic attractions, get a sightseeing pass, it will easily save you 50% on regular admission prices – see more

New York is easy to navigate, but if you can't walk to your destination there are plenty of options

The quickest way to travel around, open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from as low as $2.75 per ride, with stops usually every 8-10 blocks.

If the top taxi number is illuminated it's available, minimum metered fare is $2.50, which increases 50 cents every fifth of a mile or every minute.

Hop on, Hop off Buses

These buses connect major attractions all over the city and provide many photo opportunities, it's also a good way to catch a break or eat your sandwich while still sightseeing.

New York Travel Tips

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Things to do in February

Check out the following list of ideas for fun things to do in new york in february:, 1. new york city parks.

For 2019, Chinese New Year is the year of the Pig and begins February 5 and lasts through February 19. Every year New York City is host to two main iconic Chinese New Year's festivals: the New Year's Day Firecracker Ceremony and Cultural Festival and the Lunar New Year Parade & Festival. There will also be many other activities during the holiday's two-week celebration.

2. Valentine's Day

New York City is a great place to visit to celebrate this romantic holiday with a loved one. Some popular activities for Valentine's Day include renewing vows and taking a picture in front of the heart sculpture at the Love in Times Square event, enjoying hot chocolate, hors d'oeuvres, jazz and tales of mythology while attending Romance Under the stars at Hayden Planetarium and listening to romantic music from 19th-century composers at the Merchant's House Museum for Love in the Parlors. The Sweetheart Soiree features dancing, light refreshments and cocktails at the Norwood Mansion for elegant entertainment, and couples can take a romantic dinner cruise on the Hudson River, viewing the sights of New York City on a Hornblower Yacht.

3. Other February events

The Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show is in February and will have events at Piers 92 and 94 during the day and evening events such as best-in-show at Madison Square Garden. The whole family will have a blast skating to soul music at the Soul on Ice Winter Skating Party at Lasker Rink in Central Park, and there will be a bake sales, skating demonstrations and music. There will be a winter carnival at Bryant park in February, and it will have a DJ, skating, winter sports and games, a brew house and puppet shows.

4. Significant sites in New York City

Visiting the various attractions in New York City are among the many intriguing things to do in New York in February. The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are wonderful locations that have a deep historical significance. Ellis Island is particularly fascinating, with photos, informational exhibits and plaques on the immigrants who came through the island, plus an interesting collection of personal letters from donors from the Statue of Liberty fund raiser in the 1980s. The Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the largest and most extensive museums in the world and possesses more than two million works of art. And of course Central Park is a place that you must visit while in New York City, with its many beautiful trails, gardens and the iconic ice skating rink.

Rainy Day Options in New York

Broadway shows.

Taking a Broadway show will chase away any rainy day blues during your visit to New York City. It might not be possible to get last minute tickets to every show, but you can find something a couple of hours before the show starts by visiting the box office of the theatre.

NYC Museums

Your weather app says it’s going to be raining the whole day? Head over to one of the best NYC Museums. Whether your interest is in art, science or city history, there’s something for everyone in just about every neighbourhood. Pick from MoMA, Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, American Museum of Natural History, Whitney Museum of American Art, Museum of the City of New YorkorEl Museo del Barrio.

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50 amazing things to do in NYC in February

Dynamite things to do 

TimesTalks: A Final Farewell to the Cast of  Girls , Skirball Center for the Performing Arts; Feb 1 at 7pm; tickets start at $48 Catchup with the  Girls themselves—LenaDunham, Allison Williams, Jemima Kirke and Zosia Mamet—beforethe sixth and final season of the groundbreaking show premieres on Feb 12. Fans won’t want to miss this opportunity to hear the stars talk feminism, womanhood and what’s next for Hannah and co.

Tattooed New York ; New York Historical Society; Starts Feb 3–April 17; Free with museum admission The New-York Historical Society presents over 250 items, including rare photos, early 20th-century tattoo machinery and designs by tattoo pioneers like Sam O’Reilly and Lew Alberts, documenting the city’s long love affair with body art—oh, and that nearly four-decade period from 1961 to 1997, when tattooing was illegal in NYC.

Target First Saturdays ; Brooklyn Museum; Feb 4; free For this month’s edition of its free Saturday series, the Brooklyn Museum presents vocalist and percussionist Courtnee Roze, neo-soul and hip-hop duo OSHUN, DJs mOma, Rich Knight and Lola Chung, selections from Jinah Parker's choreoplay  SHE  and much more. When you're not taking in top-notch performances, learn ways to become more active in your community at the event's Community Resource Fair, attend pop-up gallery talks and get made into a comic book character at Black Gotham Experience's photo booth.

Love, Loss and What I Wore , KaufmannConcert Hall at 92nd Street Y; Feb 5 at 8pm; tickets start at $167 This one-night-only reading of Nora and Delia Ephron’s play features a star-studded cast: Rosie O’Donnell, Tracee Ellis Ross, Natasha Lyonne, Carol Kane and Lucy DeVito. Ladies in the audience will find the vignettes about women’s lives told through their wardrobes funny, poignant and perhaps a bit too familiar. 

Chinese New Year Parade  Chinatown; Feb 5; free  During one of the best events in February,  Chinatown, NYC  is stormed by dragons and dancers, while some of the best  Chinese restaurants  serve delicious food in celebration of the Lunar New Year. But before you get lost in the bang of firecrackers, check out some fun things to do in the neighborhood. Brace yourself for what's sure to be a wild celebration, especially with the Chinese New Year Lunar Parade and Festival!

Love at the Tenement ; The Tenement Museum; Feb 10; $30 Discover the affairs of the heart that played out among New York’s optimistic working-class immigrants in the 19th and early 20th centuries on this guided tour. You’ll be able to ease your real-estate anxiety on a stroll through Orchard Street the old-school lover’s lane of the LES: Orchard Street. View richly re-created apartments from the era, indulge in sweet treats, and hear the most salacious and sweet tales of late-night fire escape rendezvous, renter-boarder romance and neighborhood scandal since  Sex and the City. 

Central Park Conservancy Ice Festival ; Naumburg Bandsell, Central Park; Feb 11; free After it was canceled because of high winds last year, the Ice Festival returns with ice-carving artists from Astoria-based Okamoto Studio, who transform 6,000 pounds of the cold stuff into replicas of statues in New York’s backyard. No big deal, right? The real party starts after, though. A free silent disco (with live DJs) lets you choose between ’80s, ’90s and Top 40 hits so you can dance the night away.  

Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show ; Piers 92/94 and Madison Square Garden; Feb 11-14; various prices. As fun as they are, puppy cams and viral videos can’t compare with real-life specimens as a cuteness delivery system. Coo over more than 3,000 dogs representing hundreds of breeds and varieties at the 141th annual caninefest, where dogs are judged across seven divisions (hound, toy, nonsporting, herding, sporting, working and terrier). If you can’t score a ticket, you can still get your fix via online streaming during the day and TV coverage of the evening competitions.

Dita Von Teese , Gramercy Theater;Feb 14-18 at 7:30pm; tickets start at $114 Don’t miss the queen of burlesque on the New York leg of her “Art of the Teese” tour. She’ll debut brand new acts and bust out some favorites—including her famous performance with a giant martini glass.

Amateur Night at the Apollo: Opening Night , the Apollo Theater; Feb 22 at 7:30pm; tickets start at $39 Watch aspiring musicians, dancers, comedians, spoken word artists and more battle it out at the first night of the Apollo’s annual live talent competition, now in it’s 83rd year. The winner will receive $20,000 and the prestigious title of Super Top Dog.

Hilarious comedy shows 

Showgasm Ars Nova; Feb 2 ; $5–$20 Joel Kim Booster hosts this eclectic neovaudevillian variety show, which features a lively mix of music, comedy and burlesque. This edition features performances by Amber Alert, Sonia Denis, Mo Fry Pas, Mitra Jouhari, Talkboy and Jaboukie Young-White. The show starts at 8pm, but we recommend arriving early for Foreplay, the pre-show happy hour from 7–8pm with killer specials ($20 gets you two drinks, a slice of pizza and a ticket to the show). As with all Showgasm shows, you never know when a famous face will drop by for a wild and queer night.   

Comedy at Stonewall The Stone Wall Inn; Feb 4; $5, at the door $10, plus two-drink minimum Chrissie Mayr hosts this monthly showcase of stellar queer and queer-appealing comics at the historic Stonewall. Get down to killer sets from Tim Dillon, Exiene Lofgren, Von Decarlo, Joel Kim Booster, Eman El Husseini and Josh Carter. 

Tinder Live: Valentine’s Day Spectacular The Bell House; 8pm; $15 Comedian, writer and musician Lane Moore takes the stage in this critically-acclaimed comedy show to open up her Tinder profile, swipe left, message guys that pique her (and the audience's) interest and even call them live. During this special Valentine's Day show, Moore is joined by Naomi Ekperigin, Dan Soder and Amy Rose Spiegel. 

Keeping My Kidneys The PIT Loft; Feb 8; $7 TV writer hyper-prolific NYC comedian Mindy Raf stars in her acclaimed manic romantic comedy solo show, which throws her into queer three-ways, uncomfortable medical exams and beyond. 

Never Sleep Alone ; Joe’s Pub at the Public Theater; Feb 14; $45, participants $35, plus $12 minimum Outrageous character actor and cabaret comic Roslyn Hart inhabits her alter ego, "sexual psychologist" Dr. Alex Schiller in this interactive bash. The doctor’s goal: getting the audience in the mood with a few choice tunes and making sure all the single people in the audience hook up. Make sure you've made your bed before heading to Joe's Pub, as you're likely to bring a new friend from this show home with you. 

Can't-miss LGBT events

Cakes Metropolitan; Feb 1, 8, 15, 22; free Head to Metro for a weekly debaucherous romp with your hosts Elizabeth James and the legendary Untitled Queen. Get on stage and show off your booty bounce for the best ass contest, which guarantees a stacked dance card at the end of the night and $50 for the winner.

Q-Train Sycamore; Feb 2; Free Ditmas Park's ever-growing queer populace is invited to mix and mingle at this monthly shindig. Play dirty bingo with host Ariel Speedwagon and dance to jams by everyone from Tina Turner to Fergie as DJ GoGo Gadget and drag boss Ariel Italic take over the dancefloor.

Between Two Queens Gold Sounds; Feb 2, 9, 16, 23; free If you're tired of reading Facebook rants on culture and politics from your aunt Beth, try hearing them from the beglittered lips of some of the city's sharpest drag queens. This weekly get down, hosted by Thee Suburbia and Hannah Lou, welcomes drag entertainers to share their best and worst facebook posts, then destroy the stage with performances. After the show, Lou takes over as DJ for a late night of sickening beats.

Troupe429 Mayfair New York Times Square; Feb 4; 10pm; free For its first birthday party, this always-chill queer throwback party is hosting a Three Kings (and Kweens) Day Celebration. While you jam to Britney Spears and Tiffany, you can revisit classic N64 games, snag cheap drink specials and even play some sloppy beer pong, with prizes from Smirnoff Sourced. 

Reloaded Saturdays Phoenix; 10pm; free The always-reliable East Village joint throws this packed Saturday night party of booming pop jams, boys on the dancefloor taking their clothes off and fetish and glam items available to buy in the backroom. 

Major movie premieres 

I Am Not Your Negro Based on an unfinished book by memoirist James Baldwin (voiced here by Samuel L. Jackson, who triumphs in a hushed register), this superb documentary charts the crushed dreams of black activism during the civil rights movement. The takeaway is an electric sense of outrage, one that’s depressingly timely. I Am Not Your Negro opens Feb 3

Rings Call it a mark of our attachment to the frightening 2002’s Naomi Watts–starring original (itself a remake) that we’re ready for another go-around with the cursed VHS tape. This sequel doesn’t have major stars—no stars at all, really—and it’s been delayed a zillion times. Still, that girl with the stringy black hair comes out of the laptop nicely.  Rings opens Feb 3.

John Wick: Chapter Two Another sequel? Believe us—we were just as shocked when we watched 2014’s John Wick and declared it to be one of the most exhilarating action movies in years. The linchpin, of course, is Keanu Reeves, hardening into total Charles Bronson badassery (there’s nary a “whoa” in earshot) while upping his unspoken charm via staggering gun-fu athleticism. John Wick: Chapter 2 opens Feb 10.

The Lego Batman Movie Animation has a pretty high bar to meet these days, especially after 2016’s stellar crop ( Zootopia, Sing, Kubo and the Two Strings ). But we trust the quality control on this project, given the love and attention that went into 2014’s The Lego Movie . And it can’t be worse than Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice , right? The Lego Batman Movie opens Feb 10.

Get Out Key & Peele is a show that we mourn deeply. But the guys have moved on: Keegan-Michael Key builds his impressive big-screen career, while his partner-in-comedy, Jordan Peele, has chosen an unusually ambitious route, writing and directing an original horror film about an interracial couple and the extreme troubles they encounter. It's equal parts funny and creepy. Get Out opens Feb 24.

Amazing concerts and shows 

Isaiah Rashad at Highline Ballroom; Feb 1; $15 The singer, an associate of fellow Top Dawg Entertainment acts including Kendrick Lamar and Schoolboy Q, visits NYC behind his R&B-soaked hip-hop debut, The Sun's Tirade.

Sampha at Terminal 5; Feb 9; $25 The UK soul-pop singer—best known for crooning the hook on Drake's "Too Much”—airs his own music from his just released debut, Process, at this big gig.

Hamilton Leithauser at Music Hall of Williamsburg; Feb 23, 24; $25 The Walkmen singer performs tunes from his acclaimed collaboration with Vampire Weekend’s Rostam Batmanglij. The record, I Had A Dream That You Were Mine, mixes Leithauser’s patented charismatic crooning with Rostam's ear for polished melody.

Japandroids at Terminal 5; February 23; $25 The rock duo, hearts firmly on sleeves, return with their second LP, Near to the Wild Heart Of Life, for what’s sure to be a sing-along-filled night. 

Ariana Grande at Madison Square Garden; Feb 23, 24; $60–$200 The pop star belts out the hits—from “Break Free” to the recent reggae-inflected “Side to Side”—at this stadium blowout.

Delicious food and drink events 

NYC Winter Wine Festival  PlayStation Theater; Feb 4; $75-85 general admission, $132 premium early access, $235 VIP Suite Pretend you’re on holiday at this makeshift “indoor vineyard" and taste more than 250 wines. Along with vino born in locales as diverse as South Africa, Chile, Japan and Portugal, you can also enjoy hors d’oeuvres and live jazz.


Art of Food  Sotheby’s; Feb 4; $105 general admission; $185 VIP Hosted by American Iron chef Geoffrey Zakarian and his wife Margaret, this event brings together food and art, with dishes that mimic art pieces curated and displayed at Sotheby's. 


Kosher Food & Wine Experience  Pier 60; Feb 13; $125 general admission You don’t have to follow kashrut to take part in the Kosher Food & Wine Experience. The festival dubs itself as the most comprehensive kosher wine tasting in the nation, but it's not all drinking—there's plenty of grub to eat, too.  

NYC Beer Week  Brooklyn Expo Center; Feb 24-March 5; Prices vary Beer lovers, rejoice! The annual brew celebration kicks off with an opening bash where local beer makers invite their favorite breweries from all over the world for guests to try unlimited samples. Rounding out the fest is the first-ever Fermentation Festival, as well as workshops and seminars. 

Women Chefs Rule  The Beard House; Feb 27; $160 for members, $210 for non-members 
Join gastro geniuses from all over the country for this female-fronted dinner. The chefs and restaurateurs hail from places like Salty Tart in Minneapolis, n/naka in Los Angeles and Dirt Candy in NYC to create a well-rounded menu that includes dishes like pumpkin pad thai, carnitas fat-whipped potatoes and scallop sashimi. 

Spectacular dance performances 

New York City Ballet Winter 2017  David H. Koch Theater; Jan 17–Feb 26; $30–$175 City Ballet’s winter season includes premieres of dances by Pontus Lidberg and resident choreographer Justin Peck, as well as a two-week run of The Sleeping Beauty , a romantic full-length work by company ballet master Peter Martins. 

Batsheva Dance Company:  Last Work  at BAM Howard Gilman Opera House; Feb 1–4; $25–$70 Israel's Ohad Naharin and his Bathsheva Dance Company present their seventh BAM engagement: an evening-length 2015 work that continues to explore the possibilities of Naharin's dance vocabulary, which is known as Gaga.

Vim Vigor Dance Company: Future Perfect at Baruch Performing Arts Center; Feb 2–11; $21–$29 Vim Vigor gets physical in a new show choreographed by founder Shannon Gillen, in which five dancers bounce and slide on a surface that evokes the ground at a campsite in the woods.

Andrea Kleine:  My Dinner with Andrea—The Piece Formerly Known as Torture Playlist  at New York Live Arts; Feb 9–11; $15–$25 In a new work commissioned by New York Live Arts and inspired by Wallace Shawn and André Gregory's discursive 1981 film, My Dinner with André, Kleine examines the difficulty of making art about torture, or indeed about anything at all.  

Martha Graham Dance Company: Sacred/Profane   at the Joyce Theater; Feb 14–26; $26–$66 The Graham company keeps the modern dance master's legacy alive with three programs in rep. Among the dances are selections from Graham's  Dark Meadow (1946), Clytemnestra  (1958) and  Diversion of Angels (1948), alongside premieres by Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui and Annie-B Parsons.

New York Theatre Ballet  at the 92nd Street Y; Feb 24, 25; $25–$29 The troupe presents an installment of its Legend & Visionaries series, featuring three ballets by Antony Tudor ( Soirée Musicals ,  Les Mains Gauches , the pas de deux from  Romeo & Juliet ) and two by his mentee Martha Clarke, the romantic trio  The Garden of Villandry  and the solo  Nocturne .

Marvelous theater experiences   

Evening at the Talk House at the New Group; Jan 31–Mar 12; $75–$95 Though Wallace Shawn may be best known for his adorable persona as a character actor, he is cherished by theater fans as the author of smart, dark and menacing plays. Matthew Broderick stars as a playwright is his latest dystopian drama, directed by Scott Elliott for his New Group.

Sunset Boulevard at the Palace Theatre; Feb 2–May 28; $65–$199 Glenn Close returns to the role she last played on Broadway more than 20 years ago: the delusional, fading film star Norma Desmond. Andrew Lloyd Webber continues his renaissance on the Great White Way with this stripped-down but lushly orchestrated revival, staged by Lonny Price.

The Glass Menagerie at the John Golden Theatre; Feb 7–July 2; $39–$149 Tennessee Williams's oft-revived family drama, last seen on Broadway in 2014, returns starring Sally Field as Amanda Wingfield. Joe Mantello plays Tom, haunted by days gone by, and Madison Ferris is the delicate, damaged Laura. The ingenious Sam Gold directs.

Sunday in the Park with George at the Hudson Theatre; Feb 11–Apr 23; $59–$295 Jake Gyllenhaal, who revealed surprising musical-theater chops in 2015’s  Little Shop of Horrors , stars opposite Broadway it girl Annaleigh Ashford ( Kinky Boots ) in a revival of Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine's 1984 musical, a gorgeous portrait of artistic ambition and compromise.  

Joan of Arc: Into the Fire at the Public Theater; Feb 14–Apr 16; $90–$115 After the success of their 2013 pop musical,  Here Lies Love , art-rock icon David Byrne reteams with director Alex Timbers for a rock-concert take on the life of Joan of Arc. Downtown badass Jo Lampert stars as the teenage 15th-century French visionary, rabble-rouser and martyr. 

Amazing art shows 

Katharina Grosse  Gagosian Gallery; through Mar 11; free You might have caught this German artist’s public art project this summer out Rockaway Beach, where which she transformed an abandoned building into a kind of 3-D gestural painting. Bold gestures on the menu again for her latest show, this time on regular canvas.

“Marisa Merz: The Sky Is a Great Space”  The Met Breuer; through May 7; suggested donation $25, seniors $17, students $12, members and children under 12 free Merz was the sole female member of Italian Arte Povera, the late-’60s movement that took a somewhat nihilistic approach to form and material. Merz followed suit but added some feminist flavor to the recipe. This 50-year career survey is the first major retrospective of her work in the United States.

“Richard Oelze: 1900–1980” Michael Werner; through Mar 11; free This now-forgotten Surrealist from Germany was a reclusive visionary who actually destroyed a considerable portion of his work.

“Wangechi Mutu: Ndoro Na Miti”  Gladstone Gallery; through Mar 25; free Mutu tackles feminism, globalism and multiculturalism with a flamboyant mix of African folklore, Western Art History, pop culture and pornography. Her large environmental installation here consists of a sort of indoor landscape populated by works that include a pair of large figurative bronzes that reflect on the meaning of diversity in both the biological and cultural sense. 

“Fast Forward: Painting from the 1980s”  Whitney Museum of American Art ; through May 14; $22; seniors, students $18; 18 and under free Mutu tackles feminism, globalism and multiculturalism with a flamboyant mix of African folklore, Western Art History, pop culture and pornography. Her large environmental installation here consists of a sort of indoor landscape populated by works that include a pair of large figurative bronzes that reflect on the meaning of diversity in both the biological and cultural sense.

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

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New York Latin Culture Magazine®

World-class Indigenous, European & African Culture since 2012

Things To Do in NYC in February 2023

Things To Do in NYC in February 2023 include:

• New York Broadway Week
• New York Restaurant Week
• New York Fashion Week
• Dance on Camera film festival
• Lunar New Year Parade
• Major League Soccer

February is late winter, and New York City’s snowiest month. It’s still a great time to visit. You just have to plan because it’s cold outside and may be slushy after storms.

The first week of February is the cheapest time to visit NYC with deals on travel, lodging, food, and events.

February is Black History Month .

The February holiday is  President’s Day , Monday, February 20, 2023.  NYC Schools midwinter recess is February 20-24, 2023.

Valentines Day  is a popular Roman holiday on Tuesday, February 14, 2023.

Latin traditions include Candelaria and Lourdes. Carnival Tuesday is Tuesday, February 21, 2022.

< February 2023 >

• February 1-5
• February 6-12
• February 13-19
• February 20-26
• February 27-28

Things To Do in NYC in February 1-5, 2023

Wednesday, February 1, 2023

Remember  Langston Hughes . The Harlem Renaissance jazz poet was born in Joplin, Missouri on February 1, 1901. 🇺🇸

NYC Restaurant Week and NYC Broadway Week end February 12.

New York City Ballet Winter 2023 Season ends February 26.

Thursday, February 2, 2023

Celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Candelaria , patron saint of Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain and the African Diaspora on Thursday, February 2, 2023. 🇪🇸🇮🇨

Celebrate  Maman Brigitte , the Haitian Loa of death and life. 🇭🇹

Happy Birthday  Shakira ! The Colombian pop star was born in Barranquilla, Colombia on February 2, 1977. 🇨🇴

Celebrate the ratification of the  15th Amendment  to the U.S. Constitution, which gave African American men the right to vote on February 3, 1870. 🇺🇸

Sacred Traditions: AfroLatinx & Africans – A Spiritual Reconnection : Shifting AfroIndigenous Cultural Identities During the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade, is part 2 of a 4-part a pre-travel virtual workshop for a spiritual pilgrimage to Ghana in West Africa in July/August 2023, at the CCCADI, Caribbean Cultural Center African Diaspora Institute in “El Barrio” East Harlem on Thursday, February 2, 2023 at 6:30pm. $60 for the 4 workshop series. 🇬🇭🇵🇷

Dance Argentine tango at  Tango La Nacional  at La Nacional in Chelsea, NYC. Gets busy around 9pm. Performances at 11pm. Dancing until around 2am. $20 🇦🇷

Friday, February 3, 2023

Happy Birthday  Daddy Yankee ! The “King of Reggaeton” was born in Río Piedras, San Juan, Puerto Rico on February 3, 1976. 🇵🇷

Saturday, February 4, 2023

Remember  Rosa Parks . The “Mother of the Freedom Movement” was born in Tuskegee, Alabama on February 4, 1913. She was one cool lady. Staying calm and cool while speaking truth to power made her great. 🇺🇸

Sunday, February 5, 2023

Dance Argentine tango at the  El Destino  milonga at Solas bar in the East Village on Sunday, February 5, 2023 from 6-11pm. $20. 🇦🇷

Arturo O’Farrill & the Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra  play Latin jazz at Birdland in Hell’s Kitchen, on Sunday, February 5, 2023 at 8:30pm & 10:30pm. From $36+ $20 per person minimum. 🇨🇺

Things To Do in NYC in February 6-12, 2023

next | previous | top

Bob Marley was more than a Jamaican reggae star. He stood for unity, democratic reform, and equal opportunity for all people. Political parties tried to use him. When one party tried to kill him, he knew who did it, but let it go. Then he brought both parties together. What a great man.

Jamaican reggae is part of the soundtrack for the Black Pride movement. We are still decolonizing., but now is the time to be proud of our heritage, all of it. In the best of all possible worlds, we are One Love. Bob Marley pointed the way.

It’s New York Fashion Week (NYFW).

The Dance on Camera film festival is at Film at Lincoln Center.

New York’s 25th Lunar New Year Parade marches through Manhattan Chinatown and the Lower East Side.

Monday, February 6, 2023

Remember Bob Marley . The Jamaican reggae legend was born in Nine Mile, Saint Ann Parish, Jamaica on February 6, 1945. 🇯🇲

Dance Salsa, Bachata and Merengue at Talia Castro-Pozo’s  Latin Mondays at Taj , one of NYC’s most popular Latin dance parties, at Taj in the Flatiron District, Mondays at 7pm (5pm doors). From $15. 🇨🇴🇨🇺🇩🇴🇵🇷🇵🇦🇵🇪🇻🇪

Tuesday, February 7, 2023

Celebrate  Grenada Independence Day , February 7, 1974. 🇬🇩

Wednesday, February 8, 2023

Grammy nominated early music ensemble  El Mundo ; plays 17th-18th century music from “Archivo de Guatemala,” the archive of the Guatemala City Cathedral which captures the mix of European, African and Indigenous American traditions in Colonial Guatemala; in Carnegie Hall’s Weill Recital Hall on Wednesday, February 8, 2023 at 7:30pm. From $67. 🇬🇹

Scottish classical guitarist Sean Shibe celebrates the Spanish influence on classical guitar through non-Spanish artists including Barrios, Ginastera, Poulenc, Villa-Lobos; at the 92nd Street Y Kaufmann Concert Hall; on Wednesday, February 8, 2023 at 7:30pm. From $25. 🇦🇷 🇧🇷 🇫🇷 🇵🇾 🇪🇸

Thursday, February 9, 2023

Happy birthday Alejandra Guzmán ! One of the most popular Mexican singers, was born in Mexico City on February 9, 1968. 🇲🇽

Remember Carmen Miranda ! The actress who globalized Brazilian culture (and was Hollywood’s highest paid star), was born in Marco de Canveses, Portugal on February 9, 1909. 🇵🇹🇧🇷

New York Fashion Week 2023 Fall Winter  collection fashion shows and presentations are at Spring Studios in Tribeca, Manhattan and around town; from Thursday-Wednesday, February 9-15, 2023. 🇺🇸 🇨🇦 🇲🇽 | 🇨🇺 🇩🇴 🇵🇷 | 🇦🇷 | 🇫🇷 🇮🇹 🇪🇸 | 🇳🇬

NEW YORK FASHION WEEK Christian Siriano , the New York Italian Project Runway Season 4 winner, has a runway fashion show offsite on Thursday, February 9, 2023 at 5pm. 🇮🇹

NEW YORK FASHION WEEK Victor De Souza , the New York Argentine designer, has a runway fashion show offsite on Thursday, February 9, 2023 at 8pm. 🇦🇷

Olga Cerpa y Mestisay play Canarian folk music from their latest album “Palosanto;” in Carnegie Hall’s Weill Recital Hall; on Thursday, February 9, 2023 at 8pm. From $49. 🇮🇨🇪🇸

The Marc Anthony Viviendo Tour brings Puerto Rican Salsa to Madison Square Garden in Chelsea, NYC on Thursday, February 9, 2023 at 8pm (7pm doors). From $99. 🇵🇷

Dance Argentine Tango at  Tango La Nacional  at La Nacional in Chelsea, Manhattan. Gets busy around 9pm. Performances at 11pm. Dancing until around 2am. 🇦🇷

Friday, February 10, 2023

Happy birthday  Don Omar ! The reggaeton star was born in Villa Palmeras, Santurce, San Juan, Puerto Rico on February 10, 1978. 🇵🇷

Villa Palmeras is like The Bronx of San Juan. It’s a disadvantaged immigrant community that is an artesian well of creativity. Many famous Puerto Rican artists lived there at one time or another. It’s one of the centers of salsa. Tommy Olivencia, who launched many careers, is from there. Many famous salseros are buried in the cemetery at the top of the hill. It’s the home of La Familia Cepeda, the first family of Puerto Rican bomba. You can study bomba and plena with them. Bad Bunny and Kendo Kaponi’s song “P FKN Rico” has the line “I come from a villa that has palms.” That’s Villa Palmeras. We waited out the COVID-19 pandemic a block away. Locals told us to never go there. We went many times and never had a problem. Our sicario padrino says, “you make the place.” We ❤️ Villa Palmeras. 🇵🇷

NEW YORK FASHION WEEK Bugatchi , the French Canadian fashion brand, is giving a fashion presentation offsite on Friday, February 10, 2023 from 9am-5pm. 🇨🇦

The 51st Dance on Camera Festival 2023 puts Latin dance on the big screen at Film at Lincoln Center from Friday-Monday, February 10-13, 2023. $17. 🇫🇷 🇮🇳 🇲🇽

DANCE ON CAMERA FESTIVAL “ Call Me Dancer ” by Leslie Shampaine and Pip Gilmour is Dance on Camera’s opening night film. It is the true story of Manish, a young street dancer in Mumbai, India who though supporting his parents in the traditional manner, meets an aging Israeli ballet master who ignites the young man’s desire to become a professional dancer. It screens on Friday, February 10, 2023 at 10pm. 🇮🇳

Venezuelan pianist  Gabriela Montero: Westward  explores the immigrant experience through Prokofiev, Rachmaninoff and Stravinsky (three great Russian composers who emigrated to the United States), and improvisations to Chaplin’s short film “The Immigrant” which inspired her selections. It’s at the  92nd Street Y  Kaufmann Concert Hall; on Friday, February 10, 2023 at 7:30pm. From $25. 🇻🇪

Freestyle & Old School Extravaganza brings freestyle rap legends Lisa Lisa, Mase, Tone Loc, TKA, Montell Jordan, Slick Rick, George Lamond, CeCe Peniston, Nice and Smooth, Judy Torres, Soul Sonic Force, DJ Kool, The Cover Girls, Cynthia, Black Sheep, and Soave to Radio City Music Hall in Rockefeller Center, NYC on Friday, February 10, 2023 at 8pm. From $122. 🇵🇷

Saturday, February 11, 2023

Celebrate the  Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes , the Marian apparition known for her healing powers. 🇫🇷

NEW YORK FASHION WEEK Proenza Schouler , whose co-founder Lazaro Hernandez is Miami Cuban, has a runway show offsite on Saturday, February 11, 2023 at 12pm. 🇨🇺

NEW YORK FASHION WEEK Tia Adeola , the New York English Nigerian designer, has a runway fashion show at Spring Studios in Tribeca, Manhattan; on Saturday, February 11, 2023 at 5pm. 🇳🇬

NEW YORK FASHION WEEK Sergio Hudson , the South Carolina African American fashion designer who dressed the Obamas, has a runway fashion show at Spring Studios in Tribeca, Manhattan; on Saturday, February 11, 2023 at 7pm. 🇺🇸

El Gran Combo de Puerto Rico headlines India , Jerry Rivera , and Puerto Rican Power for a night of Puerto Rican salsa at Radio City Music Hall in Rockefeller Center on Saturday, February 11, 2023 at 8pm. From $96. 🇵🇷

Sunday, February 12, 2023

Remember  Abraham Lincoln . The American president who held our country together and ended legal slavery, was born in Hodgenville, Kentucky on February 12, 1809. 🇺🇸

Those who deny freedom to others, deserve it not for themselves”Abraham Lincoln, Complete Works – Volume XII

Remember  “Tite” Curet Alonso ! The salsa poet (Las Caras Lindas, Anacoana and many others he wasn’t credited for) was born in Guayama, Puerto Rico on February 12, 1926. 🇵🇷

A lawyer got Tite to sign a contract that gave away his rights to his own music. That crew has big fancy offices in Puerto Rico full of fancy European cars. But they stole it. Tite got nothing. Malos.

The 25th Lunar New Year Parade NYC 2023 has dragons dancing through Manhattan Chinatown to the Lower East Side on Sunday, February 12, 2023 at 1pm. FREE! 🇨🇳🇰🇭🇰🇷🇰🇵🇯🇵🇲🇳🇵🇭🇸🇬🇹🇼🇹🇭🇺🇸

DANCE ON CAMERA FESTIVAL “ Ghostly Labor: A Dance Film ” is the New York City Premiere of John Jota Leaños and Vanessa Sanchez’s preview short about dance in Northern California’s migrant farmworker communities. The collection of oral histories with tap, Mexican zapateado, son jarocho, and Afro-Caribbean movement; screens in Program 7: Focus on Culture at Film at Lincoln Center, in the Francesca Beale Theater on Sunday, February 12, 2023 at 1pm. $17. 🇲🇽

NEW YORK FASHION WEEK Chiara Boni , the Milan Italian designer, has a runway fashion show at Spring Studios in Tribeca, Manhattan; on Sunday, February 12, 2023 at 3pm. 🇮🇹

DANCE ON CAMERA FESTIVAL “Living on the Threshold” (Habiter Le Seuil) , a French film by Vincent Bruno, shows the dancer’s choreographic process from dancing with humpback whales at Réunion Island, the French island in the Indian Ocean off of Madagascar. It screens in the Francesca Beale Theater at Film at Lincoln Center; on Sunday, February 12, 2023 at 4pm. $17. 🇫🇷

Dance Argentine tango at the  El Destino  milonga at Solas bar in the East Village on Sunday, February 12, 2023 from 6-11pm. $20. 🇦🇷

Arturo O’Farrill & the Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra  play Latin jazz at Birdland in Hell’s Kitchen, on Sunday, February 12, 2023 at 8:30pm & 10:30pm. From $36+ $20 per person minimum. 🇨🇺

Things To Do in NYC in February 13-19, 2023

Frederick Douglass breathed life into the U.S. Constitution. Nobody cared until Douglass taught us to care. He fought oppression his entire life, and freed himself with the power of his intellect. Mark Twain is the father of American literature. Frederick Douglass is the father of our “good people” American self-concept. We consider Mr. Douglass one of the founding fathers of the United States.

It’s Valentines Week. Relax.

“There were no embraces, because where there is great love, there is often little display of it.” Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra, “Don Quixote” (1605)

In much of the Latin world, it’s El día del amor y amistád (the day of love and friendship).

So it’s about friends too. In fact, your friends may be upset if you don’t acknowledge the day. In the Dominican Republic, we were told we are cold because we didn’t respond to friends. (We were working.)

Monday, February 13, 2023

Happy  Galentines Day ! You have everything you need, right inside your chest.

NEW YORK FASHION WEEK Fashion Designers of America 2023 Fall Winter collections are showing on Monday, February 13, 2023 from 12:30-6pm. 🇨🇴 🇩🇴 🇪🇨 🇬🇹 🇲🇽 🇪🇸 🇻🇪🗽

NEW YORK FASHION WEEK PRISCAVera , the New York Italian fashion designer, has a runway fashion show offsite on Monday, February 13, 2023 at 6pm. 🇮🇹

Edna Vázquez blends Mexican mariachi and American folk, pop and rock into something fabulous for Carnegie Hall Citywide; at the LGBT Community Center in Manhattan’s West Village; on Monday, February 13, 2023 at 7:30pm. FREE! 🏳️‍🌈🇲🇽

NEW YORK FASHION WEEK Elena Velez , the Milwaukee Puerto Rican fashion designer, is giving a fashion presentation offsite on Monday, February 13, 2023 from 8-9pm. ¡WEPA! 🇵🇷

Tuesday, February 14, 2023 (Valentines Day)

Happy Valentines Day 2023 on Tuesday, February 14, 2023.

Remember  Frederick Douglass . The great African American abolitionist, writer and statesman celebrated his birthday on February 14, 1818. It’s terribly ironic that an African American who was technically still enslaved, is perhaps most responsible for the way we see ourselves as Americans today. 🇺🇸

The soul that is within me no man can degrade.” Frederick Douglass, traveling in Pennsylvania, quoted by Booker T. Washington in 1901

Wednesday, February 15, 2023

Rentrayage , the fashion recycler inspired by French American artist Louise Borgeois, is giving a fashion presentation offsite on Wednesday, February 15, 2023 at 9am. 🇫🇷

Willy Chavarria , the California Mexican fashion designer, has a runway show offsite on Wednesday, February 15, 2023 at 6pm. 🇲🇽

Luar , the Brooklyn Dominican fashion designer, has a runway show offsite on Wednesday, February 15, 2023 at 8pm. 🇩🇴

Thursday, February 16, 2023

Celebrate  Las Comadres  (Thursday before Carnival Tuesday), a women’s Carnival gathering in Asturia, Spain; Cochabamba & Tarija, Bolivia; and Arequipa, Peru. 🇪🇸🇧🇴🇵🇪

Friday, February 17, 2023

Remember  Julia de Burgos . The poet and women’s rights activist was born in Carolina, Puerto Rico on February 17, 1914. 🇵🇷

¡Río Grande de Loíza!… Río grande. Llanto grande. El más grande de todos nuestros llantos isleños, si no fuera más grande el que de mí se sale por los ojos del alma para mi esclavo pueblo.Julia de Burgos, “Río Grande de Loíza!” from “Poemas exactos a mi misma” (1937)

Remember  Vicente Fernandez ! The Ranchera singer and actor was born in Huentitán El Alto, Guadalajara, Mexico on February 17, 1940. 🇲🇽

Internacional Carro Show plays Mexican cumbia at La Boom in Woodside, Queens on Friday, February 17, 2023 at 9pm. 🇲🇽

Saturday, February 18, 2023

Remember  Toni Morrison . The American novelist (“The Bluest Eye” (1970), “Song of Solomon” National Book Critics Circle Award (1977), “Beloved” Pulitzer Prize (1987), Nobel Prize in Literature (1993)) was born in Lorain, Ohio on February 18, 1931. 🇺🇸

You wanna fly, you got to give up the shit that weighs you down.”Tony Morrison, “Song of Solomon” (1977)

Celebrate  Gambian Independence Day , February 18, 1965. 🇬🇲

Sunday, February 19, 2023

Dance Argentine tango at the  El Destino  milonga at Solas bar in the East Village on Sunday, February 19, 2023 from 6-11pm. $20. 🇦🇷

Arturo O’Farrill & the Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra  play Latin jazz at Birdland in Hell’s Kitchen, on Sunday, February 19, 2023 at 8:30pm & 10:30pm. From $36+ $20 per person minimum. 🇨🇺

Things To Do in NYC in February 20-26, 2023

It’s traditional Carnival Week!

Monday, February 20, 2023

Happy birthday  Sir Sidney Poitier ! The Bahamian American actor was born in Miami, Florida on February 20, 1927. 🇧🇸🇺🇸

I am the me I choose to be.” Sidney Poitier

The New York Dance Festival (ballroom) is February 20-26, 2023.

Tuesday, February 21, 2023 (Carnival Tuesday)

Celebrate Carnival Tuesday (Mardi Gras)!

Celebrate  Presidents Day 2023 . The U.S. national holiday honors the birthdays of Presidents George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. 🇺🇸

Remember  Chesperito . The beloved comic was born in Mexico City on February 21, 1929. 🇲🇽

Bárbara Martínez sings and dances Spanish flamenco tablao for Flamenco Tuesdays; at Sala Astoria, a Spanish tapas bar in Astoria, Queens; on Tuesdays, from 7-9pm. 🇪🇸🇦🇷🇻🇪

Wednesday, February 22, 2023

The 22nd MoMA Doc Fortnight 2023 documentary film festival takes a hard look at the legacy of colonialism and human inhumanity; at the Museum of Modern Art in Midtown, Manhattan; Wednesday, February 22 – March 7, 2023. 🇨🇺 | 🇦🇷 🇧🇷 🇨🇴 | 🇫🇷 | 🇩🇿

Remember  President George Washington . The U.S. founding father was born in Popes Creek, Virginia on February 22, 1732. We are grateful for the good things he did, and especially the peaceful transfer of power, but he was a human slaver nonetheless. 🇺🇸

What would Jorge Washington do?” Keith Widyolar, Editor-in-Chief, New York Latin Culture Magazine

Remember  Luis Buñuel . The Spanish filmmaker who helped develop the Mexican film industry was born in Calanda, Teruel, Spain on February 22, 1900. 🇪🇸

Celebrate  Saint Lucian Independence Day . 🇱🇨

Celebrate  National Margarita Day ! 🇲🇽

Commemorate Ash Wednesday , “From dust, to dust.” 🇮🇹

Thursday, February 23, 2023

Celebrate Lent , the Catholic period of spiritual cleansing before Easter. ✝️

Remember  W.E.B. DuBois . The African American writer and NAACP co-founder who gave us our American sense of self, was born in Great Barrington, Massachusetts on February 23, 1868. 🇺🇸

Either America will destroy ignorance, or ignorance will destroy the United States.” W.E.B. Du Bois, Niagara Movement Speech, 1905

Happy birthday  Residente Rene Perez . The voice of Latin rappers Calle 13, was born in Hato Rey, San Juan, Puerto Rico on February 23, 1978. 🇵🇷

Pedrito Martinez plays Cuban rumba and timba at Drom in the East Village on Thursday, February 23, 2023 at 9pm (7pm doors). From $25. 🇨🇺

Friday, February 24, 2023

South African pianist Nduduzo Makhatini and Brazilian mandolin virtuoso Hamilton de Holanda show how we, the African Diaspora, turn the colonial mess into something wonderful at Jazz at Lincoln Center in the Appel Room on Friday, February 24, 2023 at 7pm & 9:30pm. From $81. 🇿🇦🇧🇷

Gilberto Santa Rosa de Amor y Salsa ; brings Puerto Rican salsa to Bergen PAC in Englewood, New Jersey; on Friday, February 24, 2023 at 8pm. From $49. 🇵🇷

Saturday, February 25, 2023

Major League Soccer Season starts today.

South African pianist Nduduzo Makhatini and Brazilian mandolin virtuoso Hamilton de Holanda show how we, the African Diaspora, turn the colonial mess into something wonderful at Jazz at Lincoln Center in the Appel Room on Saturday, February 25, 2023 at 7pm & 9:30pm. From $81. 🇿🇦🇧🇷

Miguel Zenón & La Prueba del Ritmo  play Afro-Latin jazz in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr; in Teatro LATEA at The Clemente Center in the Lower East Side; on Saturday, February 25, 2023 at 8pm (7:30pm doors). From $25. 🇵🇷

Sunday, February 26, 2023

Remember Antoine  “Fats” Domino  Jr. The rock and roll pioneer was born in New Orleans, Louisiana on February 26, 1928. 🇺🇸

They call, they call me the fat man ‘Cause I weigh two hundred pounds All the girls, they love me ‘Cause I know my way around” Fats Domino, The Fat Man, 1949

Dance Argentine tango at the  El Destino  milonga at Solas bar in the East Village on Sunday, February 26, 2023 from 6-11pm. $20. 🇦🇷

Arturo O’Farrill & the Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra  play Latin jazz at Birdland in Hell’s Kitchen, on Sunday, February 26, 2023 at 8:30pm & 10:30pm. From $36+ $20 per person minimum. 🇨🇺

Things To Do in NYC in February 27-28, 2023

Dominican Independence Day is a big deal because Dominicans had to fight for their freedom, over and over again. 🇩🇴

Monday, February 27, 2023

Celebrate  Dominican Independence Day , February 27, 1844. ¡Quisqueya! 🇩🇴

Tuesday, February 28, 2023

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From 26th October 2024, Virgin Atlantic will operate daily flights to Dubai.

Our seasonal Virgin Atlantic service with up to 4 direct flights, will operate until the 19th May 2024.

Our seasonal direct service will recommence on the 28th October 2024.

Our Virgin Atlantic service operates on Mondays, Wednesdays and Sundays.

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Our Virgin Atlantic service operates on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays until 29th March 2024. From the 2nd April, this service will reduce to Tuesdays and Saturdays.

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Our seasonal Virgin Atlantic service with up to 3 direct flights, will operate until the 11th May 2024. Flights will commence from 23 May 2024 - 24th October 2024 on Thursdays and include a short touchdown.

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A city that dreams are made of

We fly to new york daily.

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New York from £614pp

New York City needs no introduction. But if it did, we couldn’t go without mentioning good ol’ Lady Liberty, world-famous Broadway theatres and the breathtaking Central Park. Spend an idyllic city break amongst skyscrapers and unbeatable shopping - you'll feel like you've just stepped into your favourite movie! Discover everything the big city has to offer on a holiday to New York.

It's never too early to think ahead and plan your next amazing holiday. Guarantee the hotel you want and gain early access to a choice of Virgin Atlantic flights as far ahead as 2025.

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When to visit the Big Apple

Last minute New York holidays

How about a spontaneous trip? Check out our offers, get excited, and start counting down the days until you arrive in the Big Apple. With so much to explore, from Times Square to Central Park, your adventure awaits!

Winter magic: The Big Apple's frosty charm

It's the most wonderful time of the year and New York is a-glow with festive cheer. Check out the sparkling light dispays, fun festive markets and epic Christmas trees, with our guide to winter breaks in NYC.

There's a New York hotel for everyone...

On a budget?

New York can be expensive, but with careful planning and smart choices, you can have an amazing experience without breaking the bank. We've got the hints and tips to turn your dream holiday into a budget-friendly reality.  

Live a little

Enjoy 360 degree views of Manhattan and complimentary breakfast at the Sanctuary Hotel, or perhaps you'd like to stay closer to Central Park at the Thompson. There are some great deals to be had.

Luxury Escapes

Celebrating something special? Or just wanting to go all out and treat yourself - because why not?! Here's our guide to the ultimate 5* New York holiday. From fine dining restaurants to luxurious hotels, you deserve the best.

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New York hotel offers

Riu Plaza New York Times Square

Save up to 35% on your accommodation rates!

Valid for stays before 28 Aug '25. Book by 31 Aug '24.

Virgin Hotels New York City

Complimentary daily spa amenity pass for all guests. Plus, $25 food and beverage credit per room per day, and waived resort fee, saving $35 per room per day.

Spa offer valid for stays of 3 nights or more before 30 Jun '25. Book by 30 Sep '24.

Save up to 45% on your hotel rates!

Valid for stays between 3 Sep '24 - 31 Aug '25. Book by 30 Sep '24.

Walker Hotel Tribeca

Waived resort fee, saving over $34 per room, per day. 

Valid for stays before 31 Mar '25. Book by 31 Dec '24.

The New Yorker, A Wyndham Hotel

Waived resort fee, saving over $40 per day!

Valid for all travel dates.

Westin New York Times Square

Receive food and beverage credit, complimentary kids amenity pack, and late check-out!

Valid for all travel dates. Book by 31 Aug '24 for kids amenity pack.

The Benjamin Royal Sonesta New York

Save up to 33% on your accommodation!

Book by 30 Sep '24, for stays before 28 Feb '25.

Marriott Marquis New York

Save up to 50% on accommodation rates.

Valid for travel before 26 Jul '25.

Sanctuary Hotel

Waived facility fee, saving $26.00 per day, and free continental breakfast daily. 

Tempo by Hilton Times Square

Save up to 35% on accommodation rates

Valid for stays before 31 Dec '25. Book by 22 Aug '24

The Fifty Sonesta Hotel New York

Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel

Save up to 50% on accommodation rates

Valid for stays before 25 Aug '24.

The best of the Big Apple – New York City holidays

Known for its world-class museums, Art Deco skyscrapers and avant-garde galleries, New York is the top of the list when it comes to culture and the arts. Whether you’re first in line for the latest Radio City showing or heading to the Brooklyn Bridge, NYC will keep you busy from dawn till dusk.

Empire State Building

Built in 1931 and standing at 1454ft above Manhattan, this famous skyscraper is an American icon. Between 8am-2am, head up to the 86th and 102nd floors for breathtaking views of the city - and don't miss the interacive museum on route.

Central Park

At 852 acres, Central Park is one of the largest parks in NYC. The man-made park is considered a masterpiece in landscape architecture. Walk, run, sit, eat - it's the perfect place to relax.

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt

Described as an observatory above Grand Central Station that "compels you to question your perception of the built environment, the natural world around you, and your sensorial reality".

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

Between 1886 and 1924, millions of people arrived in New York in the hope of living the American Dream and the Statue of Liberty would have been one of the first things they would see. You can either take a full tour or just take a cruise so you can take a pic without leaving the boat.

Times Square & Broadway

Times Square is famous for it's neon lights and glitzy billboards, as well as its array of Broadway theatres. Follow the bright lights to the box office and go and see a classic like The Lion King or Les Misérables - an absolute must for first time New Yorkers. 

Manhattan's cooler, younger sibling is home to trendy bars, an eclectic art and food scene and edgy music festivals - real New Yorkers also say this is where you'll find the best pizza in town!

American Dream

With a whopping 3 million sq ft of entertainment, shopping and dining, American Dream's is a must. Attractions include DreamWorks Water Park, Nickelodeon Universe, 300 Ft Observation Wheel, The Escape Game and more.

Perched atop 30 Hudson Yards, this remarkable structure showcases a design that is truly one-of-a-kind. It's an absolute marvel, seemingly suspended in mid-air, offering you a delightful sensation of floating among the clouds. The panoramic 360-degree views it offers are simply unparalleled.

One World Trade Center

The "One World Observatory" is an enclosed observation deck located on the tower's upper floors. Rising 1,250 feet (381 meters) above street level, it offers panoramic views of New York City's skyline, including breath-taking vistas of the surrounding areas.

The High Line

The High Line is an absolute gem in the heart of New York City, offering a beloved urban oasis where both locals and visitors can find solace and tranquility amidst the vibrant cityscape. It has truly worked wonders in revitalising the surrounding neighborhoods, injecting new life and energy into the community.

Circle Line Cruise

On a Circle Line Cruise, you can enjoy a leisurely voyage along the waterways, such as the Hudson River or the East River, while taking in the stunning skyline of the city. The cruises often pass by famous landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Brooklyn Bridge, and many others, offering fantastic photo opportunities.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is the city's most visited museum where you can experience collections spanning more than 5,000 years of culture, from pre-history to present day.

Louis Armstrong House Museum

See the house where jazz legend Louis Armstrong lived, still furnished as it was when Louis and his wife Lucille lived there. The collection pays tribute to his accomplishments and contributions to the world of jazz.

Whitney Museum of Modern Art

Don’t miss the Whitney Museum of American Art, one of the best contemporary art collections in the country. It’s located in the Meatpacking District, so hit two birds with one stand and walk The Highline in the same day.

Museum of Broadway

The Museum of Broadway takes visitors of all ages on an exciting, immersive journey from the birth of Broadway to present day, including a sneak peek behind the curtain into the making of a Broadway show. 

When you think of New York, what comes to mind besides Lady Liberty? This city is the unofficial birthplace of retail therapy. From Manhattan to Brooklyn, here are the places you should be headed to get the biggest bang for your buck.

Bloomingdales

What would a trip to NYC be without a stop at Bloomingdale’s? The flagship store on 59th Street is the biggest and best place to fill up your little, medium and big brown bags.

Macy's is an absolute shopping haven, where you can find everything you need, from trendy fashion to stylish home decor, all under one roof. It's a must-visit destination for both fashion enthusiasts and those seeking a delightful retail experience.

Empire Outlets

New York's first and only retail outlet where you can find some of the biggest brands at discounted prices. Located at the base of the Staten Island Ferry Terminal, you'll find 100+ stores and plenty of lunch options along the waterfront. 

Fifth Avenue

Probably one of the most famous - and most expensive - shopping districts in the world where you'll find high-end luxury brands like Cartier and Prada, as well as high-street names like Gap and Zara. Definitely worth a visit, even if it's just for some window shopping!

Harry Potter Flagship Store

Potterheads will be amazed by the magical Harry Potter store which spans three floors and houses the largest collection of Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts merch from pocket money souveneirs to rare collectibles. 

June brings NYC Pride to the big city, with the annual March proceeding down the famous parade route Fifth Avenue and past the historic Stonewall Inn.

Restaurant Week

Twice a year foodies come out in droves to experience NYC Restaurant Week. The event is a celebration of New York's culinary culture, and invites diners to eat out for a fixed price to sample menus from all over the city's eclectic restaurant scene.

Tribeca Film Festival

Since 2001, the Tribeca Film Festival has been lighting up Manhattan. From big movie premieres, to independent screenings and Q&A sessions with directors, cast and crew, this is a must-do event for movie buffs.

New York Marathon

Usually taking place in November, this is the biggest global marathon event with around 50,000 runners from 91 countries descending on New York City to run through the five boroughs. If you don't fancy sweating it out on the track, cheering from the sidelines is plenty fun. 

Step right into the exhilarating realm of sports in New York! Whether you're a die-hard sports enthusiast or just beginning to explore the world of sports. New York has an incredible array of options to cater to every interest.

You will be delighted to know that New York is home to two NBA teams: the New York Knicks and the Brooklyn Nets. The Knicks, playing at the iconic Madison Square Garden, have a rich history and a loyal fan base that has supported the team through thick and thin. Meanwhile, the Brooklyn Nets, based in the Barclays Center, boast a star-studded roster and an electrifying atmosphere. Attending a game at either venue is an unforgettable experience.

There's nothing quite like catching a game at Yankee Stadium, the legendary home of the New York Yankees. With an illustrious history and a record number of championships, the Yankees embody the spirit of the city. If you prefer the National League, the New York Mets play at Citi Field, offering an exciting atmosphere and passionate fans. Rooting for your favorite team while indulging in ballpark classics like hot dogs and peanuts is an essential part of the New York sports experience.

American Football

You can join the passion of the New York Giants and the New York Jets, both of which compete in the National Football League (NFL). MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, serves as the shared home for these teams and provides an incredible setting for thrilling gridiron clashes. The atmosphere at NFL games is electric, with enthusiastic fans donning team colors and cheering their hearts out. You will be creating memories that will last a lifetime!

Hockey lovers will feel right at home in the fast-paced world of the New York Rangers (NHL). The Rangers play their home games at Madison Square Garden, where you can witness the skill and intensity of this beloved winter sport. The rivalry between the Rangers and the New York Islanders, who call the Nassau Coliseum home, adds an extra layer of excitement to the hockey scene in the city. Don't miss the chance to be a part of this exhilarating sporting event during your trip!

Whether you’re looking for non-stop action or want to get lost in this dazzling metropolis, New York City truly has something for everyone. Feel the pulse of the city in the heart of Manhattan or set your sights on one of the city’s thriving boroughs. Your adventure in the most exciting urban hub in the world is just a Virgin Atlantic Holidays booking away – discover our  New York hotels  today.

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Essential information for New York

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Read our Useful Information for guidance on what to expect before and during your holiday, including travel requirements, local customs and hotel facilities. 

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The empire state, dream big in new york..

Hip and urban, this bustling state never slows down. You'll always be able to find something to do here. From exploring New York city's world-famous dining scene, Times Square, museums or walking the High Line, New York will keep you on your toes.

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New York is a powerhouse, to say the least. It's packed with history, culture, food, fashion and more. It checks the box for any type of vacation you're after. Family trip, romantic getaway or vacation with a group of friends, this diverse state will be able to keep everyone entertained.

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Visiting New York in February – The definitive guide

Things to do in New York New York Travel Guide New York In February

Make a list of 10 English language television series that you have liked watching during your entire lifetime and we guarantee that up to 4 of them were set in New York City. Popular media is obsessed with the Big Apple and there is no reason an average tourist shouldn’t be either. The city welcomed a record 66.6 million tourists in 2019, which is a testament to New York’s open arms. What sets the City of Dreams apart is that it has a place of interest for everyone. It is no ordinary tourist destination that puts up an ornamental face every time you look at it. It is a home of millions, with the heart to accommodate a billion more. Even during frigid February, the city of New York has the charm to keep you warm on the inside.

What makes New York in February special?

February witnesses a considerable bulk of tourists that heading to New York City. The February weather grants the city some relief from this hoi polloi. This makes February a desirable time to visit the city. Since February is some distance from both high and shoulder season, it highly likely that you will find accommodation within the city at a fairly reasonable rate. Some airlines provide attractive discounts as well on flights heading in and out of New York. Regardless of the time of the year, New York is always buzzing. There is something or the other going on in some part of the city. Be it the prestigious New York Fashion Week , or the culturally significant Broadway Week , New York always has a trick up its sleeve. So stop staring at your calendar and pack your bags. And while you are at it, read on to find out why New York in February is not a crazy idea at all.

New York Weather in February

New York in February sees an average high of 5°C while the lows hover around minus 2°C. Be prepared for early February nights recording as low as minus 10°C! Expect rain and snow for about 7 days throughout the month. Partly due to these temperatures, February is the cheapest time of year to visit NYC.

Things to do in New York in February

Central park.

New York is almost instantly recognized from an aerial shot of the huge rectangular green space we refer to as Central Park . However, in february, this green space is blanketed under a vast sheet of white snow. But the weather shouldn't deter you from taking a walk here. Put on a few layers, don your gum boots and set out for a slow stroll. Locals also suggest a horse carriage ride as you sip on some wine.

February Timings Open daily from 6:00 AM – 1:00 AM

New York, NY USA Getting There ›

9/11 Memorial & Museum

This memorial was erected in remembrance of the 2977 people who were killed in one of biggest tragedies of the millennium. The twin reflecting pools sit where the World Trade Center once stood. The 9/11 museum is dedicated to examining the implications of the terrorist attack and telling the story of the attack. Regardless of when you go to New York, visiting this site is what we owe to mankind.

February Timings Daily 9 AM to 7 PM. Closed on Tuesdays

Z180 Greenwich Street, New York, NY 10007 USA Getting There ›

One World Observatory

Perched atop the tallest building in the Western hemisphere is the One World Observatory . It occupies the 100th, 101st, and 102nd floor of the One World Trade Center building and provides the best panoramic view of the city of New York. In February, this popular activity can be accessed without any crowd.

February Timings Daily 10 AM to 7 PM

285 Fulton St, New York, NY 10006 USA Getting There ›

American Museum of Natural History

Founded in 1869, this New York City essential is packed to the brim with artifacts from around the world. It is suggested that you take more than a day to explore the entire museum and check out the exhibitions that are set up for a limited time only. The Titanosaur is a museum exclusive that attracts global attention. Needless to say, a trip to the American Museum Of Natural History in February gives you the best chance to get to all parts of the museum.

February Timings Daily 10 AM to 5:30 PM

Central Park West & 79th St, New York, NY 10024, USA Getting There ›

The New York Pizza Walk

Nothing like piping hot, freshly-made pizzas on a dewy, cold day! This 3-hour walking tour through Little Italy and Greenwich Village will take you to some of the best pizzerias in town. Through this little tasting-adventure, you'll discover the history and connection of pizza with this thriving city! You can take your time as you walk through the winding streets of a usually busy city.

53 Spring St, New York, NY 10012, USA Getting There ›

Summit One Vanderbilt

Indulge in an unparalleled multi-sensory viewing experience and marvel at the stunning views of New York City's skyline from Summit One Vanderbilt . Don't miss this incredible chance to take your sightseeing to a whole new level! Plus, with a convenient location in midtown Manhattan, you can take advantage of all the amazing restaurants and attractions that this vibrant city has to offer.

February Timings Daily 9 AM to 12 AM

45 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017, USA Getting There ›

Catch a Broadway Show

The city of New York has a number of defining features. Central Park is one. Broadway is another. If musicals are your thing, then coming to New York is like attaining the holy grail for you. Broadway is the global hotspot for everything related to musicals and performance arts. Make sure you catch a Broadway musical on your trip to New York. You may even score a discount during the first ten days of February.

February Timings Timings Vary Depending On The Show & Availability

Theater District New York, NY USA Getting There ›

Statue of Liberty

No trip to New York is complete without visiting the Statue of Liberty . The megastructure was designated as a National Monument in 1924, and it steadily attracts tourists from all over the world. Separate tickets allow you to explore the Liberty Island or ascend the stature itself. In February, you may find it easier to make reservations for the all-inclusive tour.

February Timings Daily 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM

New York, NY 10004, USA Getting There ›

Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

The Museum of Modern Art or MoMA is one of the most significant art museums in the United States. It is identified as the most influential museum of the world. The vast array of works at the MoMA repository includes works of architecture, drawing, painting, sculpture, photography, prints, illustrated literature and artist's books, film, and multimedia. Take a laid back tour of the museum in the low season in February.

February Timings Sat to Thu 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM Fri 10:30 AM to 8:00 PM

11 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019 USA Getting There ›

New York in February: Events to Look Out For

National Pizza Day

10 February, 2024 Irrespective of which part of the world you hail from , an unhealthy love for pizza is unanimously a wordly sin. And in New York, pizza isn’t just a delicacy. There is a designated day of the year which is celebrated in honor of this beloved slice of love. Just visit any of the thousands of pizzeria in the city and go to town on their top specialties. The eateries provide great deals on this day, and you wouldn’t want to miss out on them.

New York Fashion Week

9 - 14 February, 2024 The Spring/Summer fashion trends have a huge impact on the world of fashion. New York Fashion Week is among the very first fashion events in the calendar year, and it sets the tone going forward. After a series of major acquisitions in 2018, the fashion world is all set to begin a new chapter this year, and the New York Fashion Week is the perfect way to do that. If fashion is your thing, do not miss this one.

New York City Restaurant Week

16 January - 4 February, 2024 Here’s your chance to sample NYC’s culinary scene at a bargain. Over 300 restaurants across the city participate in the New York Restaurant Week and offer a prix-fixe menu at a relatively very low price.

Lunar New Year Parade and Festival

24 February, 2024 As the year of the pig kicks in, New York is planning to begin the Lunar New Year or the Chinese New Year with routine vigor and pomp. The traditional lion dancing takes place in the streets. Festive events take over the entire city. Restaurants and eateries jump in with their innovative menus. The Lunar New Year Parade in Chinatown is regarded as one of the must-see events in New York in winter.

NYC in February : 5-day Itinerary

If you're not in New York for too long, then don't worry. We've got just the itineraries for you. Take a look at our carefully curated itinerary for 5-7 days in New York and pick out whichever you think works best!

5-7 Days in New York Itinerary

9/11 Memorial & One World Observatory

Times Square

Art Museums

Top of the Rock | Empire State Building

Chelsea Market

Brooklyn walking tour.

Day Trip to Niagara / Washington DC

St. Patrick's Cathedral

New York Public Library

Greenwich Village

Sightseeing Cruise

Food Tour in NYC

Shopping on 5th Avenue

Battery Park

Lower East Side

Nyc february essentials.

Language English

Time zone GMT-4

Country Code 917 | 212 | 718

Socket Type A & B

Currency Dollar ($)

February is one of the coldest months of the year. It is slightly less bone-chilling than January and is also less prone to snowing and rains. The temperature will often drop below the freezing point. The skyscrapers in the city make the breeze feel stronger while blocking out most of the sunlight. Try to plan your itinerary keeping this in mind.

NYC Accommodation In February

The city of New York welcomes over 60 million visitors every year. Surely, accommodation is not one of the things you’ll need to worry about when in the city. Look for discounted rates on accommodations in February. The city offers places to stay that can fit all kinds of budget.

• Luxury Hotels - The Whitby Hotel , The Towers at Lotte New York Palace , Crosby Street Hotel .
• Mid-Range Hotels - Library Hotel by Library Hotel Collection , The Sherry-Netherland Hotel , The Langham New York Fifth Avenue ,
• Budget Hotels - Hotel 50 Bowery NYC , NobleDEN Hotel , EVEN Hotel Times Square South .

NYC Packing List February

The first advice we should give you is to stay indoors. But if you absolutely can’t, layers are your best friends. Pack plenty of insulated clothing and wear multiple layers of them before stepping out. Keep your feet well warm as that can go a long way in ensuring your comfort. Carry waterproof clothing as well. New York gets an average of 7 days of rain or snow in February.

Getting Around New York in February

Mass transit is a convenient and inexpensive way to get around New York City. The five boroughs are well connected via various MTA transport means. Subways are the fastest way to travel within the city. It operates all day, every day. You can opt for public buses as well. The can offer you a scenic, albeit slower way to reach your destination. The Roosevelt Island Tram is another scenic way of getting around. The city also has a famously large fleet of yellow taxi cabs that you may opt for if you have a lot of baggage. Last but not least, bikes are available for hire if you want to be in charge of your own travel. You may also take a ferry across the river to Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and New Jersey.

New York in February: Seasonal Delicacies

You are already chuckling if you are a fan of the popular sitcom, Seinfeld. This curious looking cookie is actually not a cookie at all. It comprises of cake base topped with half vanilla frosting and half chocolate frosting. Beware of the ones that replace frosting with fondant. For the best black and white cookie, try Zabar's!

There is a reason why the name of the city has been associated with this dish. Cheesecakes can be found anywhere on earth, but the New York variety is inimitable. The already rich dessert gets a copious helping of home-made fruit puree and delicate sponge cake base to elevate it to the next level. Have a slice at Junior’s and make your trip to New York City memorable.

The BEC, or Bacon Egg and Cheese Sandwich is a definite New York City signature. A typical New Yorker begins their day with this, and you should too if you want an authentic City experience. This sandwich is also known to be a miraculous hangover cure. The best BEC can be found at Sarge’s Delicatessen & Diner.

The city of New York has traditionally had a large Jewish community. Consequently, Jewish food items have become a part of the city. Bagel is one such food item. It consists of hand-shaped bread that is quite dense and chewy on the inside and crisp on the outside. Visit the century-old Russ and Daughters for the best bagels in the city.

Tips for Visiting New York in February

• Look for special pre-show menus at restaurants near Broadway theatres to score attractive discounts on meals.
• Get a Metrocard if you are planning to travel a lot throughout the city. It gives you open access to all MTA managed transport routes.
• Avoid the days around Valentine’s Day if you're aiming for a quiet and calm trip. The city is for obvious reasons quite a frenzy during V Day!
• Experience an Ice Hockey game if you are looking for a sporting event apart from the Super Bowl.
• Culture vultures should go to Harlem and attend events celebrating Black History Month throughout February. It's worth the travel!
• Visit museums for free as they open up at night to encourage new visitors to experience the history and heritage of mankind.

Discover New York Through The Year

Lakshmi Menon

Born to parents bit by the wander bug, Lakshmi calls her love for travel "hereditary and habitual". Perpetually ensconced with a book in her hand and a mug of coffee in the other, she has been to over 15 countries in her 23 years of existence and is currently saving miles and money for her solo trip to Iceland. Always hustling towards the least trodden path, she has encountered some wonderful people during her escapades and if you ever meet her, she won't stop gushing about them.

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4-Day New York Itinerary: Experience The Best Of NYC In 2024

New York is an exciting city, with lots to see and do – let me show you how to experience the best of the city with this 4-day New York itinerary.

Sure, you won’t see and do everything there is to see and do in New York in four days – but it’s an expensive city and we don’t all have a huge amount of time and money to spend there. Many of us, myself included, might only have a few days to explore the Big Apple, so we need to make the most of that time. In fact, several of my trips to New York have either been 4 or 5-day trips, so I feel like I am well-practised at making the most of 4 days in New York!

This 4-day New York itinerary is based on my experience of all of my previous trips: what worked and didn’t work well. I wrote this with an NYC first-time visitor in mind, and as such, it covers the main sights that most visitors will have on their NYC bucket list , but I have also included a couple more unique NYC experiences . This itinerary would also work well for someone who hasn’t been to New York for a long time and wants to rediscover the city.  

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. These are links to products or experiences I recommend and if you were to buy something after clicking on them, I might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Any earnings go towards the upkeep of this blog, which I appreciate.

Table of Contents

4-Day New York Itinerary – At A Glance

If you follow my 4-day New York itinerary, you’ll get to experience the following in NYC:

• Day 1: Greenwich Village, Flatiron Building, Madison Square Park, New York Public Library Fifth Avenue, The Empire State Building, Grand Central Terminal, Top Of The Rock & Hudson Yards
• Day 2: Lower East Side, Little Italy, Chinatown, 9/11 Memorial & One World Trade Centre, Financial District, Staten Island Ferry or the Brooklyn Bridge
• Day 3: Central Park, the Upper West Side & Times Square or a Nighttime boat cruise
• Day 4: Harlem, Museum Mile & cocktails in the Upper East Side

This 4-day New York itinerary assumes you’ll have four full days, so it could work for either a 4 days + 4 nights duration or 4 days + 5 nights. 

In order to maximise the time spent in the city, I’ve put quite a lot of activities into the first two days, but, mindful that it can be exhausting to explore all day for four days, the second two days have a slower pace.

At a couple of points, I’ve also suggest options – where you could choose to do either one of two things that I think are great, depending on your preferences.

4-Day New York Itinerary – In Detail

Here’s my 4-day New York itinerary in detail, with recommendations for places to eat lunch and dinner throughout.

Day 1 – Greenwich Village, Midtown & Fifth Avenue

Start your day by exploring perhaps the cutest neighbourhood of NYC: Greenwich Village . In the 1950s and 60s, Greenwich Village was the bohemian capital of New York City, the nucleus of art, counter-culture and the LGBT community. It has been increasingly gentrified over the last few decades and these days, the quiet, leafy streets of Greenwich Village feel somewhat sedate. It’s a very attractive place to start your NYC trip.

I suggest a good place to start is the quiet, pretty garden at St Luke’s In the Field church. You could then follow my free self-guided walking tour of Manhattan , which starts in the West Village and then heads westwards into Greenwich Village.

Things to do in Greenwich Village include:

• Wander the pretty streets – this area has many attractive tree-lined streets, such as Perry Street and Christopher Street
• Stonewall National Monument , which is The Stonewall Inn, where there was a significant protest against harassment of LGBT people in 1969.
• Jefferson Market Library – once a courthouse and now a branch of the New York Public Library
• Washington Square Park , a vibrant city park that contains the Washington Square Arch monument and is often buzzing with musicians
• See the ‘ Friends building ’. The building that was used for the exterior shots of Monica & Rachel and Joey & Chandler’s apartments in the TV show is on the corner of Grove Street and Bedford Street
• See Carrie Bradshaw’s apartment from Sex And The City. The exterior of her brownstone building was shot at 66 Perry Street (even though she is supposed to be living on the Upper East Side).

For somewhere fancy, I really liked Gotham Restaurant on East 12 th Street, but it’s on the smart side and is not low-cost. A cheaper, more casual alternative could be Joe’s Pizza , a classic NYC pizza joint that sells by the slice – on Carmine Street.

Head into midtown and slowly up along Fifth Avenue. Midtown contains many famous landmarks in NYC, which you can see in this order if you head north from Greenwich Village sticking close to Fifth Avenue (an attraction in its own right for shopaholics):

• Flatiron Building – the iconic 1902 tower with a narrow angled front that is just to the south of Madison Square Park . Surrounded by skyscrapers, this small park is a lovely spot to take a rest (and you have Eataly right next to it if you need some refreshment, or somewhere to seek shelter if it’s a rainy day in NYC )
• Empire State Building – the enduring landmark of NYC dominate midtown
• New York Public Library – the calm Beaux-Arts style building is a rare space of calm in the city. Bryant Park (behind the library) is also lovely
• The Chrysler Building – an Art Deco showpiece and my favourite part of the New York skyline – visible from several of the surrounding streets and avenues.
• Grand Central Terminal – has an impressive interior – even if you have no intention of catching a train, it’s worth checking out
• SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is a new-ish viewing experience with an art installation as well as wonderful views across Manhattan
• Rockefeller Centre & Top of the Rock – the best viewing platform in my opinion with both indoor and outdoor floors offering 360-degree views of NYC
• St Patrick’s Cathedral – nestles between the skyscrapers, this catholic Cathedral is known for its Gothic Revival style steeples
• Some of NYC’s high-end shops, including Saks Fifth Avenue and Tiffany’s .

Some of these are likely to be of more interest than others, so you can pick & choose which landmarks you spend time on vs simply taking a look and moving on. For example, the first time I walked this route, I had a brief look in the lobby of the Empire State Building, but didn’t go up to the observation deck, but I spent some time exploring the New York Public Library. And the last time I was there, I briefly went into the Library to enjoy the grandeur of Astor Hall, but I didn’t go beyond that.

To really enjoy them, I don’t think you could do more than one observation deck in one day, so I’d suggest you pick one. My personal recommendation is Top Of The Rock. While the top of the Empire State Building is a classic (and also one of the romantic things to do in NYC ), I think the view from the Top of the Rock is better because it has the Empire State in it – slap bang in the middle of the southward view towards downtown. It also has views towards Central Park, which are also pretty epic.

Getting Around

I suggest day one of this itinerary is best done on foot (again, you can follow my Manhattan walking tour ) – I think walking is the best way to really get the feel for a place. However, you could take the subway or buses if you prefer; and taxis if you have the budget. For example, once you’ve explored Greenwich Village and Washington Square Park, you could get the N or R subway train up along Broadway to Madison Square Park, rather than walking all the way.

Tip : if you don’t know NYC public transport, try the Citymapper app, which can help you plot a route via subway, bus or train. I personally prefer it to Googlemaps for navigating cities.

You’ll have worked up an appetite by the evening of day one, so why not reward yourself with a classic New York steak? Keens Steakhouse has quirky old décor and amazing cuts of meat. It’s the perfect place to relax and indulge in the evening.

If you have any energy after dinner, here are two options you could choose between…

Head west from Keen’s towards Hudson Yards where you’ll find a couple of the newest attractions in NYC:

• The Vessel , an interactive artwork structure made of open-air stairways. It’s interior has been closed to alterations for a while, but is re-opening late 2024.
• Edge , the highest sky deck in the Western Hemisphere, with views across Manhattan, including the Empire State Building to the east and the Freedom Tower to the south. It is open until 10pm if you want to see the city lit up like Christmas. Best to check the weather forecast before booking tickets, though, as the open air platform closes in bad weather.

Head east from Keen’s and for a few blocks to my favourite rooftop bar in NYC: Roof at 66 Park  in  The Prince Kitano Hotel , which has two terraces to choose from: one overlooked by the Empire State Building and the other by the Chrysler. You’re spoiled for choice here!

Day 2 – Lower Manhattan, Staten Island Ferry &/or Brooklyn Bridge

Today, you’ll explore the historic area of Lower Manhattan or downtown Manhattan.  It is one of the oldest areas of the city, dating from the 17th century. The land was originally inhabited by Indigenous Americans, but Dutch colonists built a city they called New Amsterdam (later renamed New York by the English). This area of NYC remains the financial and civic heart of the city. You can follow my self-guided walking tour of lower Manhattan on day 2 of this 4-day New York itinerary if you like.

Start your day in the Lower East Side , which was an area known for immigration in the late 19 th and early 20 th centuries.

Katz’s Deli is an old lower east side favourite. It’s one of the many well-known movie locations in NYC, having been the setting for a memorable orgasm scene in When Harry Met Sally. Come early to avoid too much of a queue (and because we have a lot planned in the afternoon). And if you do have to queue, know that the hot sandwiches are worth it!

A relatively untouristy spot that is one of the unique things to do in NYC is Freeman Alley , a small alleyway transformed by street art. You could also visit the Tenement Museum to learn about the experience of working-class immigrants living in cramped conditions in tenement buildings. and

Continue on foot into some of the other neighbourhoods of Lower Manhattan, including:

• Little Italy , named for the Italian immigrants who formed a community around Mulberry Street here in the late 19th century. This area centres on Mulberry Street. It does feel rather touristy these days, but is still work a quick look, I think.
• Chinatown – a buzzy community. My favourite spots are colourful Pell Street and Columbus Park , where you might see people playing Mahjong or Xiangqi (Chinese chess)

You could grab something from one of the many many Chinese restaurants in Chinatown, of course. There are so many!

However, another option, if you book ahead, is to get a table at one of the most attractive-looking and photogenic restaurants in NYC: Delmonico’s . Located in the heart of the financial district, the iconic corner building is dwarfed by the sky scrapers that surround it.

After lunch, head to the 9/11 Memorial and the Freedom Tower . The 9/11 Memorial is comprised of two square pools that are on the footprint of the two towers of the World Trade Centre, which fell on September 9, 2001. The names of the 2,977 victims are engraved on marble around the edges. There’s also Survivor Tree , a pear tree that survived the terror attacks and was re-planted in the Memorial in 2010.

One World Trade Centre  opened in 2014, with the  One World Observatory  at the top (although time-wise, you might have to skip this one). In this area, you should also check out Liberty Park , which overlooks the 9/11 Memorial and contains the Sphere sculpture; and Oculus, a shppping centre with a dramatic central atrium.

After the 9/11 Memorial, go deeper into the financial district to check out:

• Wall Street (with a nice view of Trinity Church )
• New York Stock Exchange , with the statue of The Fearless Girl outside it
• Charging Bull – the bronze statue where people, inexplicably, post next to its testicles

At the end of the afternoon, there are two final options – both with classic views of Manhattan and both free to do.

From Battery Park , you could catch the free Staten Island ferry to Staten Island and back again.  It’s a nice ride, and you get a view (from a distance) of the Statue of Liberty (for a better view, you’d have to book a boat tour to Ellis Island & the Statue of Liberty ).

The Staten Island ferry ride itself takes about 25 minutes each way, but you can’t simply go there and back on the same boat – you have to disembark and wait for the next one, which can be between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on the day and time. So a round trip could easily take around 1.5 hours. For more info on the schedules, check out the Staten Island Ferry site .

Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge . The brick towers are iconic and walking along the bridge will give you plenty of opportunities to look backwards and take in the skyline of lower Manhattan as you get further away from it.

There’s also plenty to see and do on the other side, including views of Lower Manhattan from Brooklyn Bridge Park and the rooftop of the Time Out Market . There’s also a classic view of the Manhattan Bridge with the Empire State Building framed in the middle of it, from Washington Street .

There’s a really special place for dinner just under the Brooklyn Bridge. The River Café is a Michelin-starred restaurant that serves amazing food with a view of the Manhattan skyline and the Brooklyn bridge – it a wonderful at sunset as the sky goes pink and the lights come on. It’s perfect for a special meal.

However, it is pricey, and you need to be smartly dressed, so if that doesn’t sound like you, consider one of the other places in the Dumbo area of Brooklyn, including Juliana’s Pizza , the TimeOut Market , or even yummy lobster rolls from Luke’s Lobster .

You could spend the evening in the Dumbo area enjoying the view of Manhattan and the Brooklyn Bridge.

If you want to see even more, of the skyline, jump on the subway or get a taxi to Westlight , the rooftop bar on top of the William Vale Hotel in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. The cocktails are great, and the view of midtown Manhattan is breathtaking! It’s one of the best things to do in New York at night .

Day 3 – Central Park, Upper West Side & Times Square

On the third day of this 4-day New York itinerary, your schedule will be less busy – and if you’ve been walking as much as I recommend, your feet might thank you for going slower today.

Start by exploring Central Park at a leisurely pace. It’s a big park (843 acres!), with a variety of landscapes, including trees, boulders, meadows, ponds, a lake and a reservoir. It’s especially gorgeous in spring when the cherry blossoms and magnolia flowers paint the park with splashes of pretty pale pink.

Some of my favourite spots to check out include:

• The skyline view from the Sheep Meadow
• The Mall and Literary Walk
• Naumburg Bandshell
• Bethesda Terrace & Bethesda Fountain
• Views of the iconic apartment buildings on the Upper West Side, including the Dakota , Beresford and the San Remo buildngs
• The Lake , on which you can go row-boating (another one of the romantic things to do in NYC )

You could of course bring your own lunch in the form of a picnic that you eat in Central Park. The Sheep Meadow is a popular spot for picnics.

If you prefer a sit-down meal, why not go for a classic central park restaurant: Tavern On the Green (which features in the movie Ghostbusters, if you’re interested in movie locations in NYC ).

After lunch, have a mooch around the affluent Upper West Side and admire some of the iconic apartment buildings that line the park, including The San Remo , whose residents have included Rita Hayworth, Bruce Willis and Bono, and The Dakota , where John Lennon lived and was killed in 1980.

If you’re a history fan, why not visit the American Museum of Natural History , which has a pretty broad mission to ‘to discover, interpret, and disseminate information about human cultures, the natural world, and the universe’. I feel like we all know it for the dinosaur exhibits, though!

Other things to do in the Upper West Side are:

• Satisfy your sweet tooth at Levain Bakery , renowned for their thick, gooey cookies
• Check out another landmark NYC building: The Ansonia
• Catch a performance at Lincoln Center for The Performing Arts
• Shop for delicacies at Zabar’s , a gourmet food emporium

I’m a fan of Jean-Georges , an upscale restaurant just off Columbus Circle on the SW corner of Central Park. Their salmon sashimi ribbons are incredible – I had them on one trip to NYC and then I couldn’t resist returning for them the next time I was in the city!

However, it’s rather expensive, so might not be for everyone. There are some lower-cost alternatives in this area, including Bareburger and Joe G Pizza .

Again, I think there are two good options for the night.

With the night lights on, why not have a quick wander through flashy Times Square . There are few places quite like it and it’s and hard to resist seeing the dazzling lights of the billboards. It can feel frenetic and a bit stressy, though – it’s not somewhere I tend to linger long!

NB. If you wanted to do a Broadway show (such as The Lion King ) while you’re in this area of NYC, you’d have to either have an early dinner or a late one, to work around the show time.

My preferred option for the evening of day 3, over Times Square, is to do a Harbor Lights boat tour with Circle Line. The views are amazing and it’s undoubtedly one of the best things to do in NYC at night . Boats depart from Pier 83 in the Hudson river and the tour takes two hours, going around Lower Manhattan, up to Roosevelt Island and then back the way it came, hovering around the Statue of Liberty on the way back.

Day 4 – Harlem & The Upper East Side

On the last day of your 4-day New York itinerary, head to Harlem , in Upper Manhattan

Harlem is named for the city of Haarlem in the Netherlands because the first European settlers here were Dutch. In the 20 th Century, its African-American community grew and the area is known for the Harlem Renaissance, an intellectual and cultural revival of African American music, dance, art, fashion, literature, theatre and politics in the 1920s and 1930s.

You might want to check out:

• Martin Luther King Boulevard and Malcolm X Boulevard , named after the civil rights activists
• The Apollo Theater , a former burlesque theatre and music hall on 125th Street
• El Museo del Barrio , which documents Latino, Caribbean, and Latin American cultures
• Graffiti Hall of Fame in East Harlem

Try to get a table at the Red Rooster (you’ll need to book well in advance). The Red Rooster is known for its American comfort food and its live music. The Sunday Gospel Brunch involves a full-on gospel choir performance. I was blown away by the performance when I visited – I’d never heard anything like it live. It is definitely one of the more unique things to do in NYC .

After lunch, saunter on down into the Upper East Side of Manhattan. I quite like to wander around here, admiring the handsome streets and smart apartment buildings of this elite neighbourhood, imagining what it might be like to live here.

There are lots of famous NYC streets and establishments here, including Madison Avenue , which lent its name to the ‘Mad Men’ nickname for advertising execs in the 1960s, and of course Park Avenue , a sought-after address. On 60 th street, you’ll find the high-end department store, Bloomingdales .

The stretch of Fifth Avenue between the Upper East Side and Central Park is known as Museum Mile . As touristy as this area is, the museums and galleries are world-class, so I do recommend considering at least one to visit, such as:

• Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum is a uniquely shaped building designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Its main exhibitions of modern art are shown for a season and then change. You can check what’s coming up online. I didn’t love the collection I saw when I went, but I did love the interior of the building – I’d go back just for that, to be frank
• The Metropolitan Museum of Art (or, simply, the Met) is a major museum with a huge collection of art from ancient times to contemporary works. It is also known worldwide for its glamourous Met Gala.
• The Frick Collection is an art collection known for its Old Master paintings and European sculpture and decorative arts. The museum is temporarily closed at the time of writing, but it is expected to reopen in late 2024.
• Neue Galerie – I only recently discovered this place, and I really like it. It’s much smaller that some of the other better-known galleries, but it’s an elegant pocket of Viennese-style in the middle of Manhattan. Klimt’s Woman in Gold painting is the centrepiece to their collection of German and Austrian art – and it’s simply spectacular.

On your last night in NYC, have a drink in Bemelmans Bar , possibly my favourite cocktail bar in the world (and I’ve been to a few!). Stepping inside feels like going back in time: it has intimate tables with leather banquettes and low lights. Exquisite cocktails are served by immaculately-dressed waiters; a jazz pianist plays live music.

Bemelmans is part of the stylish Carlyle Hotel on 76 th Street and Madison Avenue. It gets its name from the artist whose illustrations decorate the walls and lamps: Ludwig Bemelmans.

As you’d expect in a luxury hotel like this, the drinks are not cheap (priced in the $20s and $30s) and there are cover charges which kick in from 5:30 pm and increase at 9/9:30 pm when a jazz trio plays. So, this is why I suggest you go early, then go on to dinner later in the evening.

How about Italian for dinner? Caravaggio is an elegant Italian restaurant on 74 th and Madison Avenue. I loved the food and attractive dining room here. it’s special, but still feels intimate – perfect for a final dinner in NYC.

Map: 4-Day New York Itinerary Things To Do

Here’s a map showing all the things to do for each day of this New York itinerary for 4 days.

How To Use This Map : Click the tab in the top left-hand corner of the map to view the layers. If you click the icons on the map, you can get more information about each one.  If you click the star next to the map’s title, it will be added to your Google Maps account. To view it on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the menu, go to ‘Your Places’ or ‘Saved’, then click Maps and you will see this map in your list.

FAQs – New York Itinerary 4 Days

Is 4 days long enough in new york / how many days is ideal in new york.

There’s no correct answer to these questions. New York is a big city, so you could definitely spend more than 4 days there and not get bored. And you could also have a great time with only 1, 2 or 3 days in New York. However, I think four days is a decent amount of time to get to know the city Centre, focussing on Manhattan. And it’s especially good if it’s a 5-night trip so that you have four full calendar days in between arriving and departing.

I’ve done several 4-day trips to New York and had a great time on all of them. This itinerary is based on my experience across 4x 4-day/-night trips to New York, learning from what worked and didn’t work on those trips.

What Should I Pack For A 4-Day Trip To New York?

The most important thing for an itinerary like the one I have laid out above is comfortable shoes because it involved a lot of walking around New York City.

In terms of clothes, it’s going to depend heavily on what season you go in. The winters can be very cold (with lows of 26-27 degrees F / -3 degrees C in January and February), so you’ll want layers, a good coat, scarf and gloves.

And the summers can be super-hot (average highs of 85 degrees F / 29 degrees C in July), so you’ll want clothes to help keep you cool (and also sunscreen).

I most prefer NYC in Spring (eg April-May) and early Autumn (Fall), especially September. There’s a chance of rain in these shoulder seasons, but generally, the milder temperatures make it far more comfortable to explore the city, whether on foot or using public transport.  In these seasons, light layers are good, so you can adjust to the weather, plus a waterproof if you get caught out with showers.

How Much Does It Cost To Go To New York For 4 Days?

Sorry to keep saying ‘it depends’, but of course, it does depend on lots of things including the kind of accommodation you like and the kinds of activities you want to do. If you want to try several of the amazing observation decks and tours in NYC, you could be looking at around $40-50 each. Add some meals out and the costs will start adding up.

As a very rough guide, if I was trying to go to New York on a low budget, while still doing some activities and eating out at modest places, I would probably plan for the following:

• $200 a night minimum for a budget hotel
• $75 a day for food, excursions and getting around

But I feel like there’s no upper limit on what you could spend in NYC!

How To Get To New York

New York has three airports you can fly into:

• John F. Kennedy International (JFK) is the main international airport for NYC and is based in Queens. You can connect via the AirTrain to the subway, but you can also get a taxi for a flat rate to anywhere in Manhattan.
• Newark Liberty International (EWR) – although this airport is in New Jersey, it is relatively easy to get to and from if you’re staying in Manhattan. Trains go to and from Penn Station and Newark Airport Express buses from mid-town 
• LaGuardia (LGA) – more popular for domestic flights, and based in Queens, LaGuardia connects to the central parts of NYC by bus  

I use Sk y scanner to find well-priced flights.

Where To Stay In NYC

I have recently stayed at the following NYC hotels that I recommend:

Wall Street Hotel (5-star). I really enjoyed staying at this swanky hotel in the financial district. Don’t worry – it’s not a business hotel. It’s everything you want in luxury accommodation: a comfortable, spacious, calm-feeling room; huge bathroom with all the accessories and toiletries; amazing staff who help whenever you need it; a good room service menu; and an attractive lobby bar that serves cocktails. Can’t recommend it highly enough!

Nolitan (4-star): this cool Nolita hotel feels very urban with steel, concrete and velvet textures in the decor. I had a good-sized room with a small balcony and a very nice bathroom. They have a restaurant on site, but I opted to eat out in the neighbourhood – there are several good choices on the north part of Mulberry Street.  There’s also lots to explore in the surrounding area, including the Lower East Side, Chinatown, Little Italy, Soho – and Nolita itself.

Pod 39 (3-star) is definitely the best budget hotel I’ve stayed in on Manhattan (some previous ones have been very small and/or with shared bathrooms). I stayed in a single room with a private bathroom. It was clean and space-efficient, but not so tiny that I was knocking into things all the time. There was free coffee in the mornings and they gave me a discount card for the rooftop bar, The Allerton. It was great!

You could also check out this guide to the best places to stay from a fellow travel blogger.

The Last Word

I hope this itinerary for 4 days in New York has been helpful in showing you how you can maximise your time in this exciting city!

If you’d like to get a little more off the beaten path, do check out my post on unusual and unique things to do in NYC . And, if you’re going to be in New York as a couple, you might want to read my guide to the most romantic things to do in NYC .

Finally, if the forecast is bad, you might need my ideas for things to do in NYC on rainy days .

Enjoy your four days in NYC!

If you like this article, I'd be delighted if you shared it!

About The Author

Martha Knight

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4 thoughts on “4-day new york itinerary: experience the best of nyc in 2024”.

Wow what a packed and exciting itinerary you’ve put together. Thanks for sharing all your knowledge of the city with us and making an excellent selection on activities for a New York Itinerary covering 4 Days. New York strikes me as one of those places that will keep on giving no matter how often you come back to it. Of course as a first time visitor you want to see all the popular sights and have some downtime to take all the impressions in. I agree with you, walking is the best way to explore and make your own mental map of a new destination.

Carolin | Solo Travel Story

Thanks for your encouragement, Carolin! Days 1 & 2 are definitely packed! And when I did the day 1 route, I went further and carried on into the Upper East side – but my feet didn’t thank me the next day, so I thought it would be too much to recommend to anyone else, ha ha

What a fun trip. You saw so much during this 4 day stretch. Well done. Central Park itself is like a small city when you walk the entire park. I sometimes walk the sidewalk perimeter outside of the park but also do the path-track-road too. Big time workout. Plus you have the seemingly endless fields, mini-parks and woods on the interior. My favorite experience: running on the quiet north end in Harlem one late evening with 10 degree F temperatures. I saw no humans for virtually the entire workout but ample raccoons and other wildlife. Special evening, that was.

Oh that sounds really nice! It’s special to find those quiet places and moments in an otherwise frenetic city, isn’t it?

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Aug 26, 2024, exploring the big apple on a budget: a 3-day itinerary for new york city.

Shiona Walker

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New York City is a dream destination for many, with its iconic skyline, world-class museums, vibrant neighbourhoods, and endless entertainment options. However, it’s also known for being one of the most expensive cities in the world. But don’t worry! You can still experience the magic of NYC without breaking the bank.

Day 1: Discovering Manhattan

Morning: Central Park and Museums

• Central Park : Start your day with a leisurely walk through Central Park. It's free to enter, and you can explore iconic spots like Bethesda Terrace, Bow Bridge, and the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir. If you're interested in a guided tour, consider a free walking tour that operates on a tip-based system.
• Metropolitan Museum of Art : Suggested admission is $30 for adults, $22 for seniors, and $17 for students, but entry works on a donation basis so you can pay what you wish. Spend a few hours exploring its vast collections, including ancient artefacts, European paintings, and modern art.

Afternoon: Times Square and Midtown

• Times Square : Walk through the bustling heart of NYC, taking in the bright lights and vibrant atmosphere. It's a great spot for people-watching and capturing memorable photos.
• Bryant Park : Relax in this charming park, which often hosts free events, such as movie nights and yoga sessions. Grab a coffee from a nearby kiosk for a few dollars and enjoy a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Evening: Iconic sights

• Rockefeller Center : Visit the iconic Rockefeller Center. While Top of the Rock observation deck tickets are $40, you can enjoy the street-level sights for free, including the famous ice-skating rink (in winter) and the impressive architecture.
• Dinner: Head to Joe’s Pizza for a classic New York slice at budget-friendly prices (around $3 per slice). Alternatively, try an American classic at Shake Shack in Madison Square Park for a delicious burger and fries (around $10-$15).

Day 2: Downtown adventures

Morning: Financial District

• Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island : Take the free Staten Island Ferry from Whitehall Terminal for stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline. The ferry runs frequently and offers a budget-friendly way to experience these landmarks.
• Wall Street and Trinity Church : Explore the historic Financial District, including the New York Stock Exchange and the Charging Bull statue. Trinity Church, one of the city's oldest buildings, offers free admission and a peaceful retreat from the city’s chaos.

Afternoon: SoHo and Greenwich Village

• SoHo : Stroll through SoHo's cobblestone streets, admiring the unique cast-iron architecture and browsing through trendy boutiques. Window shopping here is an enjoyable experience and allows you to get involved with the city’s high fashions without spending a dime.
• Washington Square Park : Head to Greenwich Village and relax in Washington Square Park, known for its iconic arch and vibrant street performers. It's a great spot for people-watching and soaking in the local culture.

Evening: Chinatown and Little Italy

• Chinatown : Enjoy affordable and delicious food in Chinatown. Sample dumplings at Vanessa's Dumpling House ($1.50 for 4 dumplings) or grab a pork bun from Mei Li Wah Bakery ($1.20 each).
• Little Italy : End the day with a stroll through the charming streets of Little Italy, enjoying the friendly atmosphere. Treat yourself to a gelato from Ferrara Bakery, with prices starting at around $5.

Day 3: Cultural highlights

Morning: upper west side.

• American Museum of Natural History : Suggested admission is $28 for adults, $22.50 for seniors and students, and $16.50 for children, but this is another museum where you pay what you can pay as you’d like. Explore fascinating exhibits, including dinosaur fossils, the Hall of Ocean Life, and the Rose Center for Earth and Space.

Afternoon: Harlem and East Side

• Harlem : Walk through historic neighbourhoods and visit the famous Apollo Theatre. While the theatre's tours are priced at $17, simply exploring the area and its rich history can be very rewarding.
• High Line : Walk this elevated park on the west side of Manhattan, built on a historic freight rail line. It's free to enter and offers stunning views of the Hudson river and the city's architecture.

Evening: Brooklyn

• Brooklyn Bridge : Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge at sunset for breathtaking views of Manhattan. It's a free and unforgettable experience.
• DUMBO : Explore this trendy Brooklyn neighbourhood, known for its picturesque streets and waterfront parks. Visit Jane's Carousel ($2 per ride) or simply enjoy the views of the Manhattan skyline and the Brooklyn Bridge.
• Dinner: Enjoy a classic New York pizza with pies starting at $16 at Grimaldi’s Pizzeria or explore Middle Eastern flair at Height’s Falafel for their chicken or beef shawarma sandwiches under $10.

Extra budgeting tips

• Subway : Use a MetroCard for affordable and efficient travel. A single ride is $2.75, and unlimited ride options are available ($33 for 7 days).
• Street food : Enjoy NYC’s street food for budget-friendly meals. Try classic New York hot dogs ($2-$3), pretzels ($2-$4), or Halal food from street carts ($6-$8 for a meal).
• Free attractions : Take advantage of NYC’s many free attractions and public parks, such as Central Park, the High Line, and various street performances.

Enjoy your budget-friendly adventure in the Big Apple!

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New York holidays

A magnetic muse

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Star of films, songs and your next holiday

New York City is always stirring. Every block and borough bristles with energy; every sight and sound competes to stand out. This is The City That Never Sleeps, after all. The Big Apple. The City So Nice They Named It Twice. Or the city so beloved it’s been given more pet names than anywhere else. Find out what makes New York so magnetic and experience the enchantment for yourself.

Make like a romcom character and ascend to the top of the Empire State Building. Get that first glimpse of the city’s overwhelming skyline, that ‘I can’t quite believe I’m here’ moment, and listen to declarations of devotion floating around the observation deck. Feel the city tugging at your heart – are you ready to fall in love with New York?

Descend into the character-filled streets and walk through a bustling maze of avenues. Pass a pianist who has played in the same spot for more than a decade and a hot dog cart owner who has perfected the art of hollering over the honks of yellow taxis. Admire throngs of fashionistas cat walking down Fifth Avenue. There’s no such thing as a wallflower here.

Indulge yourself and tick off classic New York tourist attractions. Wave to the Statue of Liberty from a Staten Island Ferry, walk beneath a canopy of North American elms in Central Park, and stare wide-eyed at the dazzling lights of Times Square. Then get to know the boroughs and neighbourhoods. The polished mansions of the Upper East Side. The artsy dens of Brooklyn. The eclectic eateries of Queens. The mesmerising jazz of Harlem. Start your New York story and book flights now.

Carefully selected New York hotels

Best hotels in new york for all types of traveller.

A great holiday starts with a great place to stay. Browse our selection of New York hotels – there’s bound to be one that’s perfect for your NYC city break. City break lovers should check in at the InterContinental New York Barclay – it's within walking distance of Grand Central Station, the Chrysler Building and Rockefeller Center. Or for its iconic Midtown Manhattan location and Great Gatsby vibes, look no further than Park Central Hotel New York . The Hyatt Grand Central New York is right next to Grand Central Station and extremely well-placed for getting about the city. Its stylish lobby and modern feel appeal to city-slickers and New York first-timers alike. If you’re looking for a trendy neighbourhood you should stay at the modern Hotel Indigo Lower East Side New York , with its chic rooftop bar, Mr Purple.

Three-star hotels

Four-star hotels, five-star hotels.

New York Hilton Midtown

£ 657 pp

Yotel New York at Times Square

£ 611 pp

Hyatt Centric Times Square New York

£ 661 pp

Sheraton New York Times Square

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Inside view

"The city feels familiar, yet every time I visit, I discover something new. New York has an energy that's quite unlike anywhere else - iconic, diverse and unforgettable. I like to grab an early morning coffee and take a stroll through Times Square and across Brooklyn Bridge before the crowds set in. If you have a head for heights, there are a few observation decks to choose from. The glass floor at Edge has to be my favourite as the views are exceptional."

Nicole Lawson

British Airways Holidays Destination Manager - New York

New York, New York

Summon that Empire State of Mind with our special playlist of songs from, and inspired by, the bright lights and yellow taxis of the Big Apple. From experimental noiseniks and arty new wavers to the cream of hip hop and velvet-voiced crooners, there’s no denying that New York’s made a massive contribution to modern music. Dive into our choice selection of NYC-centric music picks from down the decades.

Talk to our destination experts

If you need a little help deciding or you want to ensure your next holiday is extra special give our expert travel advisors a call. 0344 493 0787 Open daily: 08:00-23:59

Calls are charged at local rate. Flight bookings made over the telephone incur a £10 booking fee per person, holiday bookings incur no fee.

New York fly-drives

New York holiday FAQs

Make the most of your new york holiday.

With so much to see and do in New York, it can be tricky to know where to start, but don’t fret – our essential guide to holidays in New York will have you looking like a local in no time.

Where are the best areas to stay in New York?

New York’s sights are spread around the city, though most first-timers will want to stay somewhere on Manhattan Island. We’ve pulled out some of the best areas to stay in the city, below.

Many first-time visitors opt to stay near Times Square. It’s not known as ‘The Crossroads of the World’ for nothing: it’s one of the world’s busiest pedestrian areas and is well-connected to many of the city’s main sights. Stay at Tempo by Hilton New York Times Square and enjoy a finely tuned sleep environment and a dedicated Get Ready Zone designed for the responsible traveller. Midtown, the area around Times Square, is where you’ll find the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, Grand Central Terminal, and the Rockefeller Center. Try booking the New York Hilton Midtown .

If you’re hankering for a luxury hotel with all the trimmings: bells, whistles and bellhops, then Central Park, on the Upper East Side, is your best bet. This area is one of the most expensive in the city. This is the ultimate destination for culture (think opera, ballet, jazz, classical music, Michelin-starred restaurants) – and a taste of old New York. As you walk along Fifth Avenue, bordering Central Park, you’ll encounter ‘Museum Mile’, an area of prestigious institutions like the Met and the Frick. Stay at Park Lane New York and relish timeless views from the intimate rooftop, Darling.

Staying on the Lower East Side puts you near Brooklyn Bridge and the Tenement Museum – a popular museum exploring the area’s working-class roots. The LES has gentrified rapidly in the last couple of decades. Hotel Indigo Lower East Side New York gives you a feel for the area as it is now: trendy, young and fun.

Several eye-catching cast iron buildings form the backbone of the SoHo district, which sits below Midtown. The name comes from the area’s geography: it’s the region south of Houston Street, in downtown Broadway. SoHo is synonymous with shopping – with boutiques for everyone from Wolf & Badger to Celine. Stay at NoMo SoHo for interiors stuffed with vintage finds and curious furnishings. Tribeca sits along the Hudson River, north of the Financial District. Hudson River Park and its promenade provide a breath of fresh air amid the hustle and bustle of Manhattan – quite literally. Stay at Walker Hotel Tribeca which gives a nod to the neighbourhood’s industrial past with practical design, utilitarian furnishings and whitewashed brickwork.

When is the best time of year to visit NYC?

New York never stays the same. It refashions itself throughout the year, offering something different in every season. Visit in spring and stroll through blossoming parks. Toast to the skyline on a terrace in summer. See the city’s trees painted in fiery reds and golden hues in autumn. Or go in winter and wrap yourself in a big coat before staring up at the famous Rockefeller Christmas tree – there's a reason so many films romanticise Christmas in New York. Check out our New York Travel Guide for a lowdown on the city's seasonal highlights and start planning your New York city break now.

What are the best things to do in New York?

If you’re a first-time visitor, you’ll want to visit all the classic New York attractions you’ve heard about in songs, read about in books and seen in films. We’ve put together a guide on the best things to do in New York , outlining the city’s highlights and offering useful tips, to help you get planning. Booking a short break and unsure of how you’re going to fit it all in? Use our weekend itinerary for inspiration. If you’re a return visitor who’s already seen the main tourist attractions or a traveller seeking out a different side of the city, look at our itinerary curated for the curious instead.

Let our experts inspire you

Where to stay.

New York hotels for every traveller

Relax on a garden terrace, enjoy chic interiors designed by the likes of Philip Starck, or discover a lobby where a robot stores your suitcase. Travel writer Danielle Contray shares her top New York hotels for your city break.

Eloise Barker

for British Airways

Things to do

Things to do in New York: Top 10

If you’re visiting for the first time, then start here. Our run-down of the top ten things to do helps you check off the biggest sights in the city, from the Top of the Rock to the end of Brooklyn Bridge. Book your tickets for the best classic attractions in advance and get ahead of the game.

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48-hour itineraries

Classic New York: a weekend guide

This 48-hour itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors and packs in the best of the classic sights to see in New York.

Danielle Contray

New York-based writer and editor

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Multi-city holidays

New York City is brilliantly connected – turn your New York trip into a multi-city holiday by flying or driving on to other US cities. Boston is four hours drive north, Philly two hours south. You could swap the cultural capital for the political one, and fly to Washington DC, or take a trip to the west coast and visit San Francisco, then road trip to Las Vegas. Then fly home from your new destination. It’s easy with our multi-centre trip planner.

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