1 Day in New York City
If you only have one day in New York City, this itinerary takes you to the city’s must-see highlights while minimizing travel time between locations. Here’s how to make the most of a single day in NYC:
1. Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
• Description: Start your day with a visit to the iconic Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, symbols of freedom and history for millions of immigrants to the United States.
• Address: Liberty Island, New York, NY 10004
• Cost: $23.50 for adults, $18 for seniors, and $12 for children (ferry ticket with access to both islands)
• Hours: First ferry departs at 9:00 AM; tours last approximately 2-3 hours
• Tip: Book your ticket in advance to avoid long lines.
2. Brooklyn Bridge Walk
• Description: After returning from Liberty Island, walk over to the Brooklyn Bridge for a scenic walk offering views of the NYC skyline, East River, and Lower Manhattan.
• Starting Point: City Hall Park, Manhattan (near Park Row and Centre St.)
• Cost: Free
• Hours: Open all day
• Tip: Spend about 30 minutes walking halfway or all the way across to capture fantastic photos.
3. Lunch: Katz’s Delicatessen (Moderate Option)
• Description: A historic spot known for its famous pastrami sandwiches and traditional New York deli fare.
• Address: 205 E Houston St, New York, NY 10002
• Cost: Sandwiches around $25
• Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM
• Tip: Try the pastrami on rye, a NYC classic!
Alternative - Luxury Option: Eleven Madison Park
• Description: A fine-dining restaurant offering innovative, seasonal tasting menus.
• Address: 11 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10010
• Cost: Tasting menu is around $365 per person
• Hours: 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM (Reservation required)
• Tip: Perfect for a splurge meal if you’re seeking a unique dining experience.
4. Central Park Stroll
• Description: Take some time to explore Central Park, a relaxing oasis in the heart of Manhattan with iconic spots like Bethesda Fountain, Bow Bridge, and Strawberry Fields.
• Starting Point: Enter at 59th St and 5th Ave
• Cost: Free
• Hours: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 1:00 AM
• Tip: Rent a bike or take a short walk to cover more ground in less time.
5. The Metropolitan Museum of Art
• Description: One of the world’s largest and finest art museums, featuring collections spanning 5,000 years of art from across the globe.
• Address: 1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028
• Cost: General admission: $30 adults, $22 seniors, $17 students, free for children under 12
• Hours: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Tuesday-Sunday)
• Tip: Focus on key exhibits, such as the Egyptian Temple of Dendur and European Paintings.
6. Top of the Rock Observation Deck
• Description: End your day with breathtaking views of NYC from the Top of the Rock. It offers one of the best skyline views, including the Empire State Building and Central Park.
• Address: 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10112
• Cost: General admission: $40 adults, $38 seniors, $34 children
• Hours: 9:00 AM - 11:00 PM (last entry at 10:10 PM)
• Tip: Sunset is the best time for photos; book tickets in advance to avoid long waits.
Dinner: Carbone (Moderate Option)
• Description: Classic Italian-American dishes in an upscale, retro ambiance.
• Address: 181 Thompson St, New York, NY 10012
• Cost: Entrees around $40-$50
• Hours: Open daily from 5:00 PM
• Tip: Try the spicy rigatoni vodka; it’s a crowd favorite.
Alternative - Luxury Option: Per Se
• Description: A highly acclaimed three-Michelin-star restaurant by Chef Thomas Keller, offering a tasting menu of French-American cuisine.
• Address: 10 Columbus Cir, New York, NY 10019
• Cost: Tasting menu at $355 per person
• Hours: Open daily, 5:30 PM - 10:00 PM (Reservations required)
• Tip: Expect a memorable, indulgent dining experience with a view of Central Park.
Enjoy this one-day NYC itinerary, packed with iconic landmarks and culinary experiences!
Hotel Recommendation:
If price is no option... we recommend The St. Regis New York, located at 2 East 55th Street at Fifth Avenue.
Why The St. Regis?
• Iconic Elegance: Known for its classic opulence, The St. Regis combines old-world grandeur with modern amenities. It is one of the city’s most iconic luxury hotels, offering impeccable service and a sophisticated ambiance that has attracted dignitaries, celebrities, and travelers seeking the height of luxury.
• Location: Situated in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, right next to Fifth Avenue, you are in close proximity to top attractions like Central Park, The Museum of Modern Art, Broadway, and shopping destinations like Saks Fifth Avenue.
• Rooms & Suites: Rooms here are spacious and lavishly designed, offering rich furnishings, exquisite marble bathrooms, and stunning views of the city skyline. The suites, including the King Cole Suite and the Royal Suite, offer an ultra-luxurious experience with expansive living spaces, fine art, and bespoke touches.
• Personalized Service: St. Regis is known for its butler service, which offers guests personalized attention to make every stay memorable. Whether you need a restaurant reservation, a customized tour, or unpacking and pressing services, their butlers are there to cater to your every need.
• Fine Dining: The hotel features Astor Court, offering classic New York fare, as well as King Cole Bar, known for its signature cocktail, the Bloody Mary (it’s said to have been invented here).
• Amenities: Guests enjoy access to the state-of-the-art fitness center, a full-service spa, and exclusive experiences like private shopping tours.
You can also find your own favorite spot here:
Annual Events in Paris to Consider:
Here are some of the most popular annual events in New York City that attract travelers from around the world. Each offers a unique experience and a chance to see the city at its most vibrant. If you’re planning a trip, considering these events can help you decide the best time to visit:
January
• New Year’s Day in Times Square – Times Square, Manhattan
• Kick off the year in NYC with the famous ball drop at midnight on New Year’s Eve, followed by a New Year’s Day celebration.
• Winter Jazzfest – Various locations in Manhattan
• This multi-day festival brings jazz musicians from around the world to various venues, offering top-tier performances.
February
• New York Fashion Week (Winter) – Lincoln Center, Manhattan
• One of the biggest events in the fashion industry, featuring runway shows and events from top designers.
• Chinese New Year Parade – Chinatown, Manhattan
• Celebrate the Lunar New Year with parades, cultural performances, and firecrackers.
March
• St. Patrick’s Day Parade – Fifth Avenue, Manhattan
• The world’s largest St. Patrick’s Day Parade, held annually since 1762, marches up Fifth Avenue with bagpipes, dancers, and green galore.
April
• Tribeca Film Festival – Various locations in Manhattan
• Founded by Robert De Niro, this festival celebrates independent films and attracts film lovers from around the world.
• Macy’s Flower Show – Macy’s Herald Square, Manhattan
• This iconic department store transforms its space with impressive floral displays, usually lasting two weeks.
May
• Fleet Week – Various locations in Manhattan
• A celebration honoring U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, featuring ship tours, military demonstrations, and events.
• Five Boro Bike Tour – All five boroughs
• America’s largest bike ride, taking cyclists on a scenic route through all five boroughs.
June
• NYC Pride – Greenwich Village, Manhattan
• One of the world’s largest LGBTQ+ pride celebrations, featuring a Pride March, parties, and events around the city.
• Museum Mile Festival – Fifth Avenue, Manhattan
• A one-day event where museums along Museum Mile offer free entry, featuring live performances and family activities.
July
• Fourth of July Fireworks – East River or Hudson River
• Macy’s Fourth of July fireworks are a spectacular show over the river, drawing crowds from across the city.
• Shakespeare in the Park – Delacorte Theater, Central Park
• Free outdoor performances of Shakespeare plays, drawing theater lovers from across the globe (runs through summer).
August
• New York International Fringe Festival – Various locations in Manhattan
• This annual arts festival features a wide range of performances, including theater, comedy, and dance.
• Harlem Week – Harlem, Manhattan
• Celebrates Harlem’s rich cultural history with events, food, music, and performances.
September
• New York Fashion Week (Fall) – Lincoln Center, Manhattan
• Another edition of NYFW, attracting fashion enthusiasts, designers, and celebrities from around the world.
• Feast of San Gennaro – Little Italy, Manhattan
• A lively Italian street festival with food, games, parades, and a cannoli-eating contest.
October
• New York Comic Con – Jacob K. Javits Convention Center, Manhattan
• One of the largest pop culture conventions in the U.S., celebrating comics, film, anime, and video games.
• Open House New York – Various locations across NYC
• A weekend of free access to many of NYC’s architectural landmarks and historic sites, often with guided tours.
November
• New York City Marathon – All five boroughs
• One of the world’s premier marathons, with 50,000+ runners covering a route through all five boroughs.
• Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade – Central Park West to Herald Square, Manhattan
• A beloved holiday tradition featuring massive balloons, floats, and performances watched worldwide.
• Radio City Christmas Spectacular – Radio City Music Hall, Manhattan (runs through early January)
• A holiday classic featuring the Rockettes and elaborate performances that capture NYC’s festive spirit.
December
• Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting – Rockefeller Plaza, Manhattan
• One of NYC’s most iconic holiday events, with a massive Christmas tree lit up with thousands of lights.
• Holiday Markets – Union Square, Bryant Park, and Grand Central Terminal
• These markets feature local vendors, food stalls, and holiday gifts in a festive atmosphere.
• New Year’s Eve in Times Square – Times Square, Manhattan
• End the year with NYC’s most famous celebration, culminating in the midnight ball drop and fireworks.
These events highlight the best of New York City’s dynamic culture, from fashion and film to music and holiday traditions. Whether you’re looking for a festive winter experience, an exciting summer event, or cultural celebrations throughout the year, NYC has something to offer every type of traveler.