New York City Highlights Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Manhattan Classics

Morning: Begin with a ferry ride to the Statue of Liberty, exploring the pedestal and museum for a deep dive into American history. The panoramic views of the skyline and harbor set the tone for an adventurous day.

Afternoon: Walk across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge from Manhattan to Brooklyn, enjoying spectacular river and cityscape vistas. Stop at the Brooklyn Bridge Park for photos and a brief coffee break.

Evening: Immerse yourself in the neon vibrancy of Times Square and unwind with a classic cocktail at the historic Plaza hotel lobby, soaking up the nightlife buzz.

Day 2: Midtown and Upper East Side

Morning: Stroll through the lush expanses of Central Park, renting a bike to circle the lake and strolling through the iconic Bethesda Terrace. The autumn foliage adds a beautiful backdrop for photography.

Afternoon: Visit the grand Metropolitan Museum of Art, wandering the vast halls of ancient art, Egyptian artifacts, and European masterpieces. Don't miss the rooftop garden for striking city vistas.

Evening: Ascend the Empire State Building for a sunset panorama; the 86th‑floor observatory provides a stunning, illuminated view of the city at night.

Day 3: Art & Urban Trails

Morning: Discover modern art at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, admiring the unique architectural design and contemporary exhibitions. Follow with a visit to the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) to see iconic works like “Starry Night” and “Campbell’s Soup Cups”.

Afternoon: Walk the elevated, green oasis of the High Line, admiring public art installations, gardens, and river views while taking a relaxing stroll along the former rail line.

Evening: Return to the center of the city for a farewell dinner at a rooftop venue near the Plaza, enjoying a final glimpse of the skyline and reflecting on the unforgettable experiences.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Statue of Liberty – 3 hours – $25
• Brooklyn Bridge – 2 hours – $0
• Times Square – 1 hour – $0
• Plaza – 1 hour – $30
• Central Park – 2 hours – $0
• Metropolitan Museum of Art – 3 hours – $25
• Empire State Building – 2 hours – $42
• Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum – 2 hours – $25
• Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) – 2 hours – $25
• High Line – 1 hour – $0
• Total Estimated Cost: $172

Tips

If you have extra days, consider adding a day in Brooklyn to explore DUMBO, the Brooklyn Museum, and vibrant local food markets. To shorten the itinerary, skip the MoMA or the Guggenheim and focus on the iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and the Empire State Building for a streamlined yet unforgettable weekend.