New York Itinerary for 4 Days

  • Day 1: Central Park
    20 mins (1.5 miles) from Times Square

    Central Park is a must-visit destination in New York City. With its beautiful landscapes, lakes, and famous landmarks such as the Bethesda Fountain, there is plenty to explore. Take a stroll through the park, rent a bike or visit the Central Park Zoo.

  • Day 2: Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
    25 mins (by ferry) from Battery Park

    One of the most iconic attractions in New York City, the Statue of Liberty stands tall as a symbol of freedom and democracy. Take a ferry to visit the Lady Liberty and Ellis Island, where you learn about the immigrant history of the city.

  • Day 3: Empire State Building
    10 mins (0.5 miles) from Times Square

    The Empire State Building is one of the most recognizable landmarks in New York City. Take a ride to the top of the building to experience breathtaking views of the city. The building also offers exhibits and historical documents detailing its construction and history.

  • Day 4: Brooklyn Bridge and DUMBO
    30 mins (2.5 miles) from Central Park

    The Brooklyn Bridge is an iconic symbol of New York City and offers stunning views of Manhattan. Walk across the bridge to arrive at DUMBO, an up-and-coming neighborhood filled with trendy shops, cafes and restaurants.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Central Park (2-3 hours, Free)
  • Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island (4 hours, $18.50 - $25 depending on tour package)
  • Empire State Building (2-3 hours, $38 for admission to the 86th floor)
  • Brooklyn Bridge and DUMBO (3-4 hours, Free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $81.50 - $88

Transportation

New York City is bustling with various transportation options such as the subway, buses, taxis, and ride-hailing services. The subway is the most affordable and quickest way to explore the city with a single ride costing $2.75. Taxis and ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft are convenient but can quickly add up in cost. If driving, be prepared for heavy traffic and expensive parking fees.

Useful Tips

With more time, consider visiting Times Square, the 9/11 Memorial, or the Metropolitan Museum of Art. With less time, skipping Ellis Island or the Empire State Building can help cut down on costs and allow for more time exploring other parts of the city.

Airports

New York City has three major airports: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). JFK and LGA are in the city, while EWR is located in Newark, New Jersey. JFK is the largest airport and offers the most flights while LGA is the closest to Manhattan. EWR is the furthest from the city center but is a major hub for international flights.

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