Look for one-stop itineraries (most cheap BOI→EWR flights have 1 stop). Target carriers: Alaska (one-stop via SEA/SFO), United (via DEN/IAD), American (via DFW/PHX) and check Southwest for competitive fares and free checked bags. Use Google Flights, Skyscanner, Hopper or Kayak with +/-1–2 day flexible dates and set price alerts.
Option A (Balanced price & time): 1-stop on Alaska or United — typical round-trip USD ~300–380 per person; Option B (Lowest with longer connection): multiple airlines with longer layovers ~USD 260–320 per person; Option C (Southwest if available): price varies, often competitive and includes 2 free checked bags — great for a party of 4.
Take NJ Transit to NY Penn Station (~35–45 min) or the Newark Airport Express shuttle/cab; a cheaper door-to-door option for 4 is NJ Transit + PATH or NJT to Penn. For Jersey City/Hoboken choose PATH from Newark Penn Station or a short rideshare.
Check into your hotel/airbnb and do a short walk to orient — e.g., walk along the High Line if staying in Chelsea or the waterfront in Jersey City for skyline views. It helps reset after travel.
Grab pizza by the slice at Joe's Pizza (open late in many locations) or a classic New York diner for an inexpensive and quick first-night meal. These places are open late; check location hours (many open until 11pm+).
Walk along the Hudson River Park, Brooklyn Bridge Park (if in Brooklyn), or Newport waterfront in Jersey City for nighttime Manhattan views and photos.
Start with a classic NYC bagel shop (Ess-a-Bagel or a nearby neighborhood café) for a hearty, inexpensive breakfast before a big day of sightseeing. Most bagel shops open by 7:00–8:00am.
Take the ferry to Liberty Island and Ellis Island to see the Statue of Liberty up close and learn immigrant history; first ferries start around 9:00am—book a timed ticket in advance. Plan for security lines and ferry schedules; check current ferry times (Statue Cruises).
Enjoy a classic pastrami or corned beef sandwich at Katz's (open early to late) or pick a local deli near Battery Park for a budget-friendly meal and quick service.
Visit the 9/11 Memorial (open generally 10:00am–5:00pm) for the reflective pools; One World Observatory has timed-entry tickets for panoramic views—book ahead for better price options. Memorial is free to view; Observatory has a fee.
Walk across the historic Brooklyn Bridge (open 24/7) into DUMBO for iconic photos and Brooklyn Bridge Park scenery; great late-afternoon light for photos and it's free.
Eat at Time Out Market in DUMBO for a variety of vendors and reasonable prices, or pick a neighborhood pizza spot — both offer good value for a party of four.
Visit The Met (generally open 10:00am–5:30pm — verify current hours) to see world-class art spanning millennia; it's large so pick sections in advance. Suggested admission around USD30 (pay-what-you-wish for NY residents at some tickets).
Enjoy an affordable burger at Shake Shack (multiple Midtown locations) or a deli picnic in Central Park to maximize time outdoors when weather is mild.
Walk through Central Park to see highlights like Bethesda Terrace, Bow Bridge, and Belvedere Castle — free and relaxing. Allow time to wander and take photos.
Choose MoMA (opens around 10:30am–5:30pm, collection of modern art) or AMNH (usually 10:00am–5:30pm, great for families). Each museum offers unique experiences—book timed tickets online for best prices and entry windows.
Dine in Hell's Kitchen for many affordable multi-cuisine spots, or head to Koreatown near Midtown for excellent value Korean BBQ and noodle shops (many open late).
Take NJ Transit, AirTrain, or a rideshare back to Newark Liberty Airport; for flights in the mid/late morning allow 2–3 hours travel + check-in/security buffer. Check airline recommended arrival times (generally 2 hours domestic).
Book a one-stop return on United/Alaska/American to BOI; aim for mid-day returns if you want a relaxed morning, or early afternoon departures to avoid late-night travel. Round-trip cheaper fares often near USD 300–420 per person when booked in advance.
If you have a long layover, consider a short waterfront walk in Newark or use an airport lounge if you have access for a quieter pre-flight experience.