3-Day Budget-Friendly Adventure in New York City

Day 1: City Exploration

New York, NY

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tom's Restaurant

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Tom's Restaurant, famously known from 'Seinfeld', featuring classic diner fare like pancakes and omelets.
Take the subway to 116th St. Station.
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Empire State Building

Kick off your NYC adventure with a visit to the iconic Empire State Building and enjoy panoramic views from the 86th-floor observation deck.
Take the subway to 34th St. - Herald Square Station.
USD44, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Walk in Bryant Park

Take a leisurely stroll in Bryant Park, surrounded by skyscrapers and the New York Public Library, the perfect spot to take in the city’s atmosphere.
Walk from Empire State Building, about 10 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Eataly NYC Downtown

Enjoy a delicious Italian lunch at Eataly, where you can find a selection of fresh pasta, pizza, and other Italian specialties.
Walk to Eataly from Bryant Park, about 10 minutes.
USD15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

Catch the ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, diving into America’s immigration history.
Walk to Battery Park, about 10 minutes from Eataly.
USD24 (includes both islands), 3 hours (including ferry ride)

4:30PM

Explore Wall Street and the Charging Bull

Stroll through Wall Street, capturing a photo of the iconic Charging Bull statue and taking in the financial district’s vibrant atmosphere.
Walk from Battery Park, about 15 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Joe's Pizza

Indulge in a slice of classic New York pizza at this local favorite, a must-try while in the city.
Take the subway to Joe’s Pizza, approximately 15 minutes.
USD3 (per slice), 1 hour

7:30PM

Catch a Free Outdoor Movie at Bryant Park

If visiting during summer, enjoy a classic movie screening in the park—grab a blanket and some snacks to unwind.
Return to Bryant Park via the subway.
Free, Varies
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Day 2: Cultural Immersion

New York, NY

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tom's Restaurant

Start your day with breakfast at Tom's Restaurant, known for its nostalgic charm and classic menu that includes delicious breakfast staples.
Take the subway to 116th St. Station.
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Walk around the East Village

Explore the vibrant streets of the East Village, with its eclectic mix of shops, street art, and lively atmosphere.
Walk from Tom's Restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Tenement Museum

Delve into the immigrant experience in New York by visiting this unique museum located in a restored tenement building.
Walk for about 10 minutes.
USD30, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Katz's Delicatessen

Savor a pastrami sandwich at the iconic Katz's Delicatessen, where the taste and history of NYC come together.
Walk back towards East Village, approximately 15 minutes.
USD20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore the Lower East Side

Check out the Lower East Side, filled with a rich history, unique boutiques, and experience the essence of this cultural corner.
Walk from Katz’s, about 10 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Staten Island Ferry

Take a scenic ride on the Staten Island Ferry for stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline.
Subway to Southern Ferry Station.
Free, 1.5 hours round trip

6:30PM

Dinner at Shake Shack

Relish a delicious ShackBurger or a vegetarian mushroom burger at the popular Shake Shack in Madison Square Park.
Walk from the ferry terminal, about 15 minutes.
USD10, 1 hour

8:00PM

Visit a Free Jazz Concert at the Blue Note

Experience the local jazz scene with a free performance at this famous venue, soaking in the vibrant culture.
Take the subway to West 3rd St. Station.
Free, Varies based on performance
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Day 3: Nature and Relaxation

New York, NY

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tom's Restaurant

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Tom's Restaurant, famous for its comforting diner environment and satisfying breakfast options.
Take the subway to 116th St. Station.
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the High Line

Walk the High Line, an elevated park built on a former railway track, featuring gardens, art installations, and great city views.
Walk from Tom's Restaurant to the High Line, changing subway lines as needed.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Discover the Chelsea Market

Explore this vibrant indoor market filled with unique shops and food vendors for some shopping and snacking.
Located adjacent to the High Line.
Varies by vendor (try to keep it under USD10), 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Los Tacos No. 1

Satisfy your cravings with authentic Mexican tacos in the bustling Chelsea Market area.
Walk to Los Tacos No. 1 within Chelsea Market.
USD8, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Brooklyn Bridge Park

After lunch, take a picturesque walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, then enjoy a relaxing afternoon at the park overlooking the Manhattan skyline.
Subway to Brooklyn Bridge - City Hall Station, then walk to the park.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Enjoy Ice Cream at Ample Hills Creamery

Treat yourself to rich and creamy ice cream at this popular local shop within Brooklyn Bridge Park.
Walk from the park, about 10 minutes.
USD5, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Burger Joint

End your trip with a classic American burger in an unassuming spot behind a luxury hotel, beloved by locals.
Take the subway back to Manhattan, then a short walk.
USD10, 1 hour

7:30PM

Watch Sunset at Top of the Rock (Optional)

If budget allows, enjoy breathtaking views of New York City from the Top of the Rock observation deck, capturing the sunset.
Subway to 49th St. Station, walk to Rockefeller Center.
USD40 (optional), 1.5 hours
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