Shoestring Budget Rail Trip Itinerary: New York City & Niagara Falls

Day 1: Explore NYC Highlights

New York, NY on August 31, 2024

9:00AM

Breakfast at Tom’s Restaurant

Start your day with a classic New York breakfast at Tom's Restaurant, famous for its role in the sitcom Seinfeld.
Located at 112th St & Broadway, only a short subway ride from anywhere in Manhattan.
USD15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Empire State Building

Take the subway to the Empire State Building to enjoy stunning views of the NYC skyline.
From Tom's Restaurant, catch the subway from 110th St to 34th St-Herald Sq.
USD44 (general admissions), 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Joe's Pizza

Grab a slice at Joe's Pizza, known for serving some of the best New York-style pizza.
Walk from the Empire State Building to 7 Carmine St, around a 20-minute stroll.
USD5, 1 hour

2:30PM

Statue of Liberty & 9/11 Memorial Museum

Take the subway from the West Village to Battery Park, and catch the ferry to the Statue of Liberty.
Ferry tickets can be purchased at the Battery Park terminal.
USD24 (ferry and entrance fee), 4 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at a local diner

Enjoy a budget-friendly and hearty meal at a local diner, soaking in the New York atmosphere.
Look for diners in the Financial District or back towards Times Square.
USD15, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Day Trip to Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls, NY on September 1, 2024

8:00AM

Train to Niagara Falls

Catch an early morning train from Penn Station to Niagara Falls, allowing you full access to explore the area.
Amtrak train to Niagara Falls takes about 8 hours.
USD35, 8 hours including commute

4:00PM

Visit Niagara Falls State Park

Once you arrive, head straight to Niagara Falls State Park to witness the majestic waterfalls and take iconic photos.
Take a local bus from the station to the park entrance.
USD10 (Entry/parking by vehicle; free entry to walk around), 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Anchor Bar

Sample Buffalo's famous chicken wings at the historic Anchor Bar before heading back to NYC.
A short bus ride from the falls to the restaurant.
USD20, 1.5 hours

8:15PM

Return Train to NYC

Board the evening train back to New York, reminiscing about your adventures at the Falls.
Head back to the Niagara Falls Train Station for the Amtrak return.
USD35, 8 hours including travel time
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Day 3: Final NYC Discoveries

New York, NY on September 2, 2024

10:00AM

Brunch at a local café

Enjoy brunch at a local café, savoring the last moments in NYC with delicious coffee and pastries.
Find a café near your accommodation; there are many options available.
USD12, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Explore Central Park

Stroll around Central Park, taking in the beautiful scenery and perhaps a walk around the lake.
Walk to Central Park, or take a quick subway ride to the closest entry point.
Free, 2 hours

2:30PM

Last Minute Souvenir Shopping

Make your way through Times Square for some last-minute souvenir shopping.
Use the subway or walk, depending on your location.
Varies, 1 hour

4:00PM

Departure

Prepare for your departure, reflecting on an exhilarating shoestring budget adventure.
Head to your travel terminal to conclude your NYC trip.
Free, 2 hours
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