If you only have a New York Minute in New York City, you must craft the perfect blend of exploring, eating, and embracing the fast-paced energy of the city that never sleeps.
Keep reading to discover the perfect itinerary for a weekend in New York City!
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TRANSPORTATION
With an abundance of transportation choices in New York City, optimizing your sightseeing experience will likely involve a mix of riding taxis/Ubers, the subway, and walking! Based on weather and efficiency, you’ll need to be able to seamlessly weave through the city to be able to see all the iconic landmarks and neighborhoods for the best weekend possible. Rely on Google Maps to give you the best transportation option at any given time!
TAXIS/UBERS/LYFTS
Opt for getting around in the iconic yellow taxis, or ordering an Uber/Lyft, for a swift and comfortable journey through the city. Don’t forget about New York traffic, though!
RECOMMENDED APP(S): UBER, LYFT
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Use my LYFT code for $10 credit/ride for 2 rides in NYC: ANNA401395
PRO TIP: Link your Marriott Bonvoy account on the Uber app and earn reward points!
ONE METRO NEW YORK (OMNY)
OMNY makes travel around the city a breeze! You don’t even need a metro card – just your Apple Pay/contactless payment to tap your way through the subway system.
RECOMMENDED APP(S): GOOGLE MAPS
CITIBIKES
NYC is filled with thousands of Citibikes and stations where you can conveniently pedal around the city. They’re available 24/7 and you cal also purchase a daily or 3-day pass.
RECOMMENDED APP(S): CITIBIKE, LYFT
Use my CITIBIKE code for $5 ride credit: ANNA401395-CB
PRO TIPS: Make sure to adjust the seat height, enable push notifications for the app, and utilize bike lanes when available.
WALKING
Step into the heartbeat of NYC by exploring on foot. From strolling through iconic neighborhoods to wandering along Fifth Avenue, walking is by far one of the best ways to see New York City at your own pace.
[SEE RELATED POST: THE BEST TRAVEL CREDIT CARDS & REWARD PROGRAMS 2023]
WEEKEND ESSENTIALS
THE BEST WALKING SHOES
TRAVEL WATER BOTTLE
UMBRELLA
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TOP NYC TOURS
Consider elevating your weekend in New York City by adding a tour or experience, where you can embark on a one-of-a-kind adventure or journey through the city with a seasoned expert. Not only are these time-efficient, but can enrich your experience with fascinating insights and stories!
PRO TIP: BRING EXTRA CASH TO TIP YOUR TOUR GUIDE!
DAY 1
| EVENING | ■ ARRIVAL ■ TIMES SQUARE |
| NIGHT | ■ DINNER ■ SUMMIT ONE VANDERBILT ■ GO OUT |
DAY 2
| MORNING | ■ BREAKFAST/BRUNCH |
| AFTERNOON | ■ STATUE OF LIBERTY ■ FINANCIAL DISTRICT – 9/11 MEMORIAL & MUSEUM – OCULUS CENTER – WORLD TRADE CENTER |
| EVENING | ■ DINNER |
| NIGHT | ■ HARBOR LIGHTS CRUISE or ■ PIER 17 (view of Brooklyn Bridge) ■ GO OUT |
DAY 3
| MORNING | ■ BREAKFAST/BRUNCH |
| AFTERNOON | ■ BIKE THROUGH CENTRAL PARK ■ THE MET ■ EARLY DINNER |
| EVENING | ■ EMPIRE STATE BUILDING ■ SHOP ON 5TH AVE |
| NIGHT | ■ DEPARTURE |
NYC BUCKETLIST
While a weekend may not cover all of New York City, it’s certainly enough to check off several items from your bucket list! For future trips, here are some additional attractions to consider:
| ☐ GRAND CENTRAL STATION | ☐ CHELSEA MARKET |
| ☐ BROOKLYN (NEIGHBORHOOD) | ☐ ROCKEFELLER CENTER |
| ☐ SOHO (NEIGHBORHOOD) | ☐ ROOSEVELT ISLAND TRAM |
| ☐ STARBUCKS RESERVE | ☐ MANHATTAN BRIDGE |
| ☐ MUSEUM OF MODERN ART (MOMA) | ☐ WALL STREET |
| ☐ SUMMIT ONE VANDERBILT | ☐ ST. PATRICK’S CATHEDRAL |
| ☐ TOP OF THE ROCK | ☐ VESSEL |
| ☐ BROADWAY SHOW | ☐ GILDER CENTER |
| ☐ THE HIGH LINE | ☐ BRYANT PARK |
WHERE TO STAY
For a quintessential and efficient New York City weekend experience, consider staying in or around Midtown Manhattan where you’ll be centrally located and surrounded by landmarks like Times Square and Broadway.
MANHATTAN NEIGHBORHOODS
For an eclectic and artsy atmosphere, Greenwich Village offers charming streets, vibrant nightlife, and a rich cultural scene, making it an excellent neighborhood to stay in.
A 3.5-star, family-friendly hotel. A cozy retreat just steps away from the iconic Washington Square Park.
AREA: GREENWICH VILLAGE
A 4-star sleek and modern hotel with breathtaking views of the city skyline.
AREA: GREENWICH VILLAGE/MEATPACKING DISTRICT
A 4-star boutique stay with stylish interiors and quintessential New York elegance.
AREA: GREENWICH VILLAGE
If you’re looking for luxury, the Upper East Side, or Tribeca, will provide you with sophisticated accommodations and proximity to renowned museums and upscale dining options.
A 3-star escape with modern sophistication and convenience.
AREA: UPPER EAST SIDE
A remarkably private and luxurious 5-star stay that has been a hotspot for celebrities, royalty, and prominent figures.
AREA: UPPER EAST SIDE
A 4-star refined, culturally rich, and stylish hotel in a prime location.
AREA: TRIBECA
Staying in downtown Manhattan’s Financial District will offer towering skyscrapers, iconic skylines, and proximity to landmarks like One World Trade Center and Battery Park.
5-star hotel owned by Robert De Niro himself! A luxurious haven that blends charm with modern elegance.
AREA: TRIBECA/DOWNTOWN
A 5-star grand, historic Hyatt masterpiece with a distinctive atrium that offers timeless elegance.
AREA: FINANCIAL DISTRICT/DOWNTOWN
3.5-star hotel in downtown Manhattan, offering proximity to numerous landmarks and modern comfort.
AREA: FINANCIAL DISTRICT/DOWNTOWN
For historic charm, the enchanting district of SoHo will provide you with a perfect blend of boutique shopping, art galleries, and a lively atmosphere. It’s well located, making it an appealing choice for a memorable stay in the heart of downtown Manhattan.
A trendy, 3-star hotel with a modern design, prime location, and vibrant surroundings. It provides a chic accommodation in the artistic area of downtown Manhattan.
AREA: SOHO
4-star modern hotel offering a trendy and high-tech atmosphere. Located perfectly for exploring the city’s culture and nightlife.
AREA: SOHO
4-star stay in the heart of SoHo. A curated, artsy, immersive stay offering upscale amenities and a stylish vibe.
AREA: SOHO
FINAL VERDICT
Make sure to fill your ideal weekend in New York City with unforgettable moments, adventures, and a touch of spontaneity. Whether it’s discovering hidden gems in Brooklyn, catching a breathtaking view from a rooftop bar, or simply wandering through Central Park, let the city offer you memories that can only be made in the Big Apple!
I hope you enjoy your weekend in New York City! 🍎 It’s been waiting for you!
Make sure to keep up with me for more travel content 🖤
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