Start with a classic New York bagel and schmear at Ess-a-Bagel for a hearty, fast breakfast before exploring the city; they're typically open from 7:00am–4:00pm. A great introduction to NYC food culture.
Walk or cycle through Central Park (open 6:00am–1:00am) to get your bearings — see Bethesda Terrace, Bow Bridge and the Reservoir for classic photo ops.
One of the world's best natural history museums (typically open 10:00am–5:30pm), ideal for families and lovers of science and dinosaur halls; check for late/opening-hour changes around holidays.
Evening skyline views from Rockefeller Center (open until late—often 11:00pm); great for night photos of the Empire State Building and Midtown lights. Pre-book tickets to avoid queues.
Ferry departs from Battery Park; reserve the first or early ferry (first ferries often ~8:30am) to avoid midday crowds and to visit the museums and grounds. Check the National Park Service for holiday schedules and security screening times.
Italian marketplace with multiple counters and restaurants offering high-quality regional dishes — great for a flexible lunchtime choice (open typically 11:00am–10:00pm).
Visit the twin reflecting pools at the Memorial (open daily) and ascend to One World Observatory for sweeping city views (observatory hours often 9:00am–9:00pm). Book timed-entry tickets.
Book a comedy show in Greenwich Village (Comedy Cellar shows run in the evening; book ahead). This gives a taste of NYC nightlife without the New Year crowds yet.
Walk the elevated High Line (open daytime) and grab snacks or small bites at Chelsea Market (hours usually 7:00am–10:00pm) — great for photos and last-minute shopping.
Walk across the bridge for great skyline shots and explore DUMBO’s cobbled streets and riverside parks; good in daylight before the evening festivities.
Make a reservation for NYE dinner (many places have early seatings and special menus); book well in advance — many restaurants open special sittings and close before midnight.
Times Square ball drop is free but extremely crowded and requires hours of standing in cold weather (arrive very early). Alternatively book a ticketed rooftop party, restaurant celebration, or NYE cruise for easier logistics and views — all sell out fast.
World-class art collection (typically 10:00am–5:00pm); excellent way to spend a relaxed afternoon — some sections may have limited hours on holidays, so check ahead.
Grab a famous Levain cookie or coffee and a quick breakfast near your hotel before heading to the airport; many bakeries open early but check holiday schedules.
Take a midday direct flight to Las Vegas (approx. 5–6 hours flight time, time zone change). Book an early/midday flight to arrive in Vegas with evening time to explore the Strip. Check airport terminals and holiday schedule.
30–45 minutes from the Strip, the Red Rock Scenic Loop and short hikes offer dramatic desert sandstone formations; visitor centre typically open 9:00am–4:00pm but the loop may have seasonal hours — check before you go.
Guided tours depart in the morning and include engineering history and views; tours and visitor centre hours vary so pre-book and check seasonal schedules.
See a headline Vegas show (timings usually 7:00pm–10:00pm or 8:00pm–11:00pm); check schedules and book tickets early as holiday week shows sell out fast.
Full or half-day aerial tour to the Grand Canyon West (Skywalk area) — departs early, includes landing options or Skywalk entry; confirm exact departure times when booking.
Begin the roughly 4–5 hour drive with planned stops; allow extra time for traffic and stretches, especially in winter weather if any. Confirm rental insurance and drop-off location in Los Angeles.
Drive through the high desert to see Joshua Tree (park open sunrise–sunset; visitor centres have limited hours) or detour to Palm Springs for a late-afternoon stroll. Check park road conditions and entrance fees.
See Hollywood lights at night; the area is lively in the evening but avoid long walks alone late at night — drive and stop for photos if pressed for time.
Hike trails for views of the Hollywood Sign, then visit Griffith Observatory for free exhibits and great city panoramas (observatory public areas open, planetarium shows have separate fees; note observatory opening times vary—often noon–10:00pm on many days).
Drive to the coast for sunset at Santa Monica Pier, stroll along the beach and down to Venice Boardwalk; pier is open all day, restaurants stay open later.
Art, architecture and gardens with sweeping views over LA (generally open 10:00am–5:30pm, closed Mondays; confirm if your date is a closure day). Parking usually has a fee.
Scenic drive and beach stops along PCH; enjoy coastal views, small beach walks and photo stops (beach access open daily but tide/season may affect conditions).
Art and antiquities in a villa setting overlooking the ocean — the Getty Villa has specific opening days (often closed Tuesdays); check ahead and reserve timed entry.
High-speed train from NYC Penn Station to Washington Union Station takes ~3–3.5 hours (Acela faster but more expensive). Book reserved seats for comfort.
Visit top Smithsonian museums (Air & Space, American History, Natural History); most museums are open daily 10:00am–5:30pm but check museum pages for holiday closures or late openings.
Pay respects and watch the changing of the guard (ceremony times vary — typically morning). Check Arlington hours (commonly 8:00am–5:00pm) and plan for security lines.
If you missed anything on the Mall, return to finish visits or take exterior photos of the Capitol and Supreme Court; interior tours of the Capitol require advance passes.