Best Of The Big Apple: Your Ultimate 3-Day NYC Itinerary

Planning a trip to New York City? Whether you’re there for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, you’ll need an itinerary comprehensively designed to help you make the most of your visit.

This ultimate three-day NYC itinerary covers essential attractions, local favorites and practical tips for all those who want something unique from the Big Apple.

Start your day in Times Square, the heart of Manhattan and one of the most iconic destinations in the country. From there, everything is close.

Check out these destinations!

Stroll along Fifth Avenue, home to luxury retailers and endlessly Instagrammable moments. The neat thing about Fifth Avenue is that it runs along the eastern edge of Central Park. So, you can continue your stroll with scenic park views.

When your feet get tired, Broadway is built into the tourist flow. Shows typically start around 7–8 PM, so you’ll have plenty of time to explore during the day. After the show, enjoy a late-night bite at one of the many nearby restaurants.

Begin your day on the Upper East Side’s Museum Mile (from about 82nd to 105th Street). Choose between the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum or the Neue Galerie.

Since Central Park is right across the street, take a leisurely afternoon walk. The open air can help you relax and recharge. Visit landmarks like Bethesda Terrace, Bow Bridge and the Central Park Zoo.

Rooftop settings and window views are in plenty in Midtown. Whether you’re craving Italian, Japanese or classic American cuisine, the area offers a diverse culinary scene to satisfy every palate.

Take a ferry from Battery Park to visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. The Immigration Museum shares powerful personal stories, original records and artifacts from America’s immigration history. Remember to book your tickets in advance!

Next, pay your respects at the 9/11 Memorial, located just a short walk from the Statue of Liberty. The adjacent museum offers a poignant look into the events of Sept. 11, 2001.

In the evening, walk across the Brooklyn Bridge and gaze at Manhattan’s distant lights. Once in Brooklyn, explore the DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass) neighborhood.