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7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary: Virginia, New York

Thursday, August 17: Arrival in Virginia

Start your trip by arriving in Virginia. In the morning, explore the historic sites of Colonial Williamsburg, immersing yourself in the rich American history. In the afternoon, visit the Virginia Beach Boardwalk, a lively stretch of beachfront with restaurants, shops, and entertainment. As the evening sets in, head to Norfolk's Ghent district, known for its vibrant arts scene and eclectic dining options.

  • Colonial Williamsburg: Cost Estimate - Free walking tour, Time Spent - 3 hours
  • Virginia Beach Boardwalk: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Ghent District: Cost Estimate - Free to explore, Time Spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
  • A popular breakfast spot near Colonial Williamsburg is the Blue Talon Bistro, known for its delicious French-inspired dishes. An average meal here costs around $15 per person.
  • For lunch, try the Duck Donuts in Virginia Beach, where you can create your own donut with various toppings. A meal here typically costs around $8 per person.
  • In Norfolk's Ghent district, supper at Tortilla West is a must. This Mexican-inspired eatery offers a variety of tacos and margaritas. An average dinner here costs around $12 per person.
Friday, August 18: Shenandoah National Park

Embark on a day trip to Shenandoah National Park. Spend the morning hiking along the picturesque trails, enjoying breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. In the afternoon, have a picnic near one of the park's scenic overlooks. As the evening approaches, drive along Skyline Drive, a scenic road that offers stunning vistas of the park.

  • Shenandoah National Park: Cost Estimate - $30 entrance fee per vehicle, Time Spent - Full day
  • Skyline Drive: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
Saturday, August 19: Washington D.C.

Take a day trip to the nation's capital, Washington D.C. In the morning, explore the iconic landmarks such as the National Mall, Lincoln Memorial, and the U.S. Capitol. In the afternoon, visit the Smithsonian museums, which offer free admission. As the evening arrives, stroll along the waterfront at the vibrant Georgetown neighborhood, known for its charming streets and lively dining scene.

  • National Mall: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 3 hours
  • Smithsonian Museums: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 3 hours
  • Georgetown: Cost Estimate - Free to explore, Time Spent - 2 hours
Sunday, August 20: Richmond

Head to Richmond, the capital of Virginia. In the morning, visit the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, which houses an impressive collection of art spanning various periods. In the afternoon, take a stroll through Maymont, a beautiful park with gardens, a Japanese tea house, and even a small zoo. As the evening sets in, explore the vibrant Carytown district, known for its unique boutiques, restaurants, and vintage shops.

  • Virginia Museum of Fine Arts: Cost Estimate - Free admission, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Maymont: Cost Estimate - Free admission, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Carytown: Cost Estimate - Free to explore, Time Spent - 2 hours
Monday, August 21: Travel to New York City

Travel from Virginia to New York City. Spend the day exploring the city that never sleeps. In the morning, start your day with a visit to Central Park, enjoying a leisurely walk or bike ride. In the afternoon, explore the iconic Times Square and soak in the bustling atmosphere. As the evening arrives, take a stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge for stunning views of the Manhattan skyline.

  • Central Park: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Times Square: Cost Estimate - Free to explore, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Brooklyn Bridge: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
Tuesday, August 22: Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

Embark on a trip to visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. In the morning, take a ferry to Liberty Island and marvel at the iconic Statue of Liberty up close. In the afternoon, explore the Ellis Island Immigration Museum, learning about the history of immigration to the United States. As the evening approaches, take a walk along the High Line, an elevated park built on a historic freight rail line.

  • Statue of Liberty: Cost Estimate - Ferry ticket ($19.25 - $22.25), Time Spent - 3 hours
  • Ellis Island: Cost Estimate - Ferry ticket ($19.25 - $22.25), Time Spent - 2 hours
  • High Line: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
Wednesday, August 23: Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

Explore some off the beaten path attractions and places locals love in New York City. Visit the vibrant neighborhood of Harlem and experience its rich cultural heritage. Discover the unique street art in Bushwick, Brooklyn, by taking a guided walking tour. Explore the charming streets of Greenwich Village, known for its historic buildings, jazz bars, and literary history.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites:

Harlem: Cost Estimate - Free to explore, Time Spent - 2 hours

Bushwick Street Art Tour: Cost Estimate - $25 per person, Time Spent - 2 hours

Greenwich Village: Cost Estimate - Free to explore, Time Spent - 2 hours

Hotel and Flight Prices

To check hotel and flight prices for your trip to Virginia and New York City, please click here.

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