3-Day Budget-Friendly Adventure: New York City & Niagara Falls

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', offering an array of classic diner fare.
Take the subway to 116th St. Station.
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the American Museum of Natural History

Immerse yourself in a day of exploration at the Museum of Natural History, known for its extensive collections and the iconic dinosaur skeletons.
Walk or take the subway to 79th St. Station.
USD23 (suggested donation), 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Central Park

Stroll through Central Park nearby, taking a moment to relax amidst nature’s beauty while being surrounded by the city’s skyline.
Walk from the museum to Central Park, about 10 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Shake Shack

Savor a delicious burger and shake at Shake Shack, a favorite local spot known for its tasty fast-food options.
Take the subway downtown to Shake Shack in Madison Square Park.
USD15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum

Pay your respects at the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, which honors the victims of the September 11 attacks in an moving and beautiful setting.
Take the subway to World Trade Center Station.
USD28, 2 hours

4:30PM

Explore Financial District and Wall Street

Take a stroll through the Financial District, capturing a photo with the iconic Charging Bull statue and soaking in the history of the area.
Walk from the memorial, about 10 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Joe's Pizza

Indulge in a classic New York slice at Joe's Pizza, a local favorite that epitomizes NYC's pizza culture.
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 you’re visiting in the summer, enjoy a classic movie screening at Bryant Park—bring your blanket and favorite snacks.
Return to Bryant Park via the subway.
Free, Varies
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Day 2: Niagara Falls Adventure

Niagara Falls, NY

7:00AM

Breakfast at Dunkin'

Grab a quick breakfast at Dunkin' to fuel up for your exciting day ahead with coffee and a breakfast sandwich.
Walk to the nearest Dunkin' from your lodging.
USD8, 30 minutes

8:00AM

Take Amtrak Train to Niagara Falls

Board the Amtrak train from Penn Station to Niagara Falls and enjoy the scenic view of upstate New York.
Take the subway to Penn Station.
USD50 (round-trip), 2 hours

10:00AM

Arrive at Niagara Falls State Park

Begin your visit at Niagara Falls State Park, witnessing the majestic waterfalls and enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
Walk directly from the train station to the park entrance.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Top of the Falls Restaurant

Enjoy a meal at The Top of the Falls Restaurant with a stunning view of the waterfalls while dining on local cuisine.
Walk to the restaurant inside the park.
USD25, 1 hour

1:30PM

Maid of the Mist Boat Tour

Experience the iconic Maid of the Mist boat tour for a thrilling up-close look at the falls, where the sound and power of the water will amaze you.
Walk from the restaurant to the Maid of the Mist entrance within the park.
USD25 (included in ticket price), 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Cave of the Winds

Get ready to be splashed as you walk through the Cave of the Winds and feel the rush of the Bridal Veil Falls right next to you.
Walk from Maid of the Mist to the Cave of the Winds entrance.
USD19, 1 hour

4:30PM

Return to New York City

Reflect on your memorable experiences as you board the train back to New York City.
Walk back to the train station from the park.
Included in round-trip fare., 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Halal Guys

Enjoy a delicious meal from The Halal Guys, known for their flavorful fast-casual street food offering chicken and gyro platters.
Take the subway to the nearest location from the train station.
USD10, 1 hour

8:00PM

Evening Walk in Central Park

Wrap up your adventurous day with a tranquil walk in Central Park, enjoying the sights and sounds of the city at dusk.
Take the subway to Central Park.
Free, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Final Day in NYC

New York, NY

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tom's Restaurant

Start your final day with another hearty breakfast at Tom's Restaurant, perfect for refueling before a busy day.
Take the subway to 116th St. Station.
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the New York Aquarium

Drive into oceanside wonders at the New York Aquarium in Coney Island, where you can watch sea lions and explore various marine habitats.
Take the subway to Ocean Parkway Station, then transfer to the bus to the aquarium.
USD30, 2 hours

12:00PM

Explore Coney Island Boardwalk

Take a leisurely walk along the historic Coney Island Boardwalk and enjoy the lively atmosphere, arcade games, and beach vibes.
Walk from the aquarium to the boardwalk.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Nathan's Famous Hot Dogs

Enjoy a classic NYC hot dog at Nathan's, an institution on Coney Island that delivers iconic flavors and a summer experience.
Walk along the boardwalk to Nathan's.
USD5, 30 minutes

2:30PM

Visit Brooklyn Bridge Park

After lunch, take a subway ride back towards Manhattan and stroll through Brooklyn Bridge Park to take in amazing views of the skyline.
Take the subway from Coney Island back to Manhattan.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Enjoy Ice Cream at Ample Hills Creamery

Treat yourself to some locally made ice cream at Ample Hills Creamery, perfect for a sweet end to a warm day.
Walk from the park, about 10 minutes.
USD5, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Burger Joint

Enjoy a memorable and delicious burger at The Burger Joint, renowned for its hidden charm behind a luxury hotel.
Take the subway back to Manhattan, then a short walk.
USD10, 1 hour

7:30PM

Watch Sunset at Top of the Rock (Optional)

If you have some budget left, witness the stunning sunset views from the Top of the Rock observation deck.
Subway to 49th St. Station, walk to Rockefeller Center.
USD40 (optional), 1.5 hours
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