New York City is one of the most visited cities in the world, and for good reason. With its iconic landmarks, diverse culture, and endless entertainment options, it’s no wonder why so many people flock to the Big Apple every year. But with so much to see and do, how many days should you plan for your New York City vacation?
Short answer: It depends on what you want to do and see.
If you’re a first-time visitor, we recommend staying for at least five days to get a taste of what the city has to offer. This will give you enough time to visit some of the most famous landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and Central Park. You’ll also have plenty of time to explore neighborhoods like SoHo, Greenwich Village, and Williamsburg.
Day 1: Arrival and settling in
On your first day in New York City, take it easy and settle into your accommodations. Depending on where you’re staying, this could mean checking out your neighborhood or taking a stroll in Central Park. Take advantage of any free time to explore your immediate surroundings.
Day 2: Iconic landmarks
Start your second day off early with a visit to the Statue of Liberty. Afterward, take a ferry over to Ellis Island for an immersive history lesson about immigration in America. From there, hop on the Subway up to Midtown Manhattan where you can visit one of NYC’s most iconic buildings – the Empire State Building.
Day 3: Museums and art galleries
Take advantage of New York’s cultural offerings by visiting some of its museums and art galleries today. The Metropolitan Museum of Art is a must-see with its extensive collection spanning over 5,000 years of art from around the world. Other great options include MoMA (Museum of Modern Art) or the Whitney Museum of American Art.
Day 4: Broadway and Times Square
No trip to New York City is complete without a visit to Broadway. Book tickets to a show in advance or try your luck at the TKTS booth in Times Square for discounted same-day tickets. After the show, explore the bright lights of Times Square and grab dinner at one of its many restaurants.
Day 5: Neighborhood exploration
Spend your last day exploring some of New York City’s diverse neighborhoods. SoHo is known for its high-end shopping and trendy cafes, while Greenwich Village has a bohemian feel with its historic brownstones and street performers. If you’re looking for something more laid back, head over to Williamsburg in Brooklyn for great food and hipster vibes.
Long answer: If you have more time, we recommend staying for at least a week to really immerse yourself in everything New York City has to offer. This will give you enough time to see some of the less touristy landmarks like the High Line or Roosevelt Island Tramway. You’ll also have more opportunities to try different foods, attend events, and visit lesser-known neighborhoods.
Day 6-7: Off-the-beaten-path attractions
Take advantage of your extra time by visiting some off-the-beaten-path attractions like the Cloisters Museum & Gardens or the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. You can also take a stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge or visit Coney Island for some classic boardwalk fun.
Ultimately, how many days you should vacation in New York depends on what you want to do and see. But whether you stay for five days or ten days, one thing is for sure – there’s never a shortage of things to do in this amazing city.