6-Day Family Friendly Itinerary: Cultural Immersion in Pittsburgh and New York

Day 1: Explore Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh, PA on December 26, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pamela's Diner

Start your day with Pamela's famous crepe-style pancakes, known for their delicious crispy edges.
Located only a 15-minute drive from Granite Dr.
USD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Andy Warhol Museum

Immerse yourself in the life of Pittsburgh's most famous artist as you explore the largest collection of Warhol's art and archives.
Drive to the museum, parking is available nearby.
USD20, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Cheesecake Factory

Indulge in a wide variety of dishes including their renowned cheesecakes, perfect for satisfying different tastes.
Located a short drive from the museum.
USD50, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Point State Park

Walk through this scenic park where the three rivers meet and gaze at the iconic fountain.
Drive a quick 10 minutes to the park.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Carnegie Science Center

Experience interactive exhibits and an IMAX theater making science fun for the whole family.
Easy 10-minute drive from the park.
USD30, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Eddie Merlot's

Enjoy a hearty meal featuring steak and seafood in a welcoming atmosphere.
A short drive from the science center.
USD80, 2 hours

8:00PM

Walk through Market Square

Stroll through this historic square often adorned with lights and decorations in December, perfectly festive.
Drive 10 minutes into downtown.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: Pittsburgh Cultural Day

Pittsburgh, PA on December 27, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Blue Dust

Savor breakfast at this charming eatery known for its sustainable, local ingredients.
Drive 15 minutes to this unique riverside location.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Phipps Conservatory

Explore the beautiful botanical gardens and stunning seasonal displays.
Only a 10-minute drive from Blue Dust.
USD18, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Shady Grove

Choose from various wholesome sandwiches and salads in a cozy setting.
Drive 10 minutes to the restaurant.
USD40, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore the Duquesne Incline

Ride this historic incline for stunning views of the city skyline and rivers.
Drive 15 minutes to the incline.
USD5, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Children's Museum of Pittsburgh

A wonderful mix of educational exhibits designed for kids, ensuring an engaging experience.
15-minute drive from the incline.
USD15, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Melting Pot

Enjoy a fun, fondue-style dining experience that's great for family bonding.
Drive 10 minutes to the restaurant.
USD70, 2 hours

8:30PM

Attend a family-friendly show at Heinz Hall

End your night with music or performances at this elegant venue.
Drive 15 minutes to the hall.
USD75, 2 hours
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Day 3: Travel to New York City

Pittsburgh, PA / New York City, NY on December 28, 2024

7:00AM

Breakfast at Church Brew Works

Delight in a unique breakfast experience at a brewery turned church, known for its ambiance.
Drive 10 minutes to the location.
USD30, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to New York City

Hit the road early to journey towards the Big Apple, enjoying the scenery along the way.
Begin the trip, allowing for breaks as needed.
USD30 (gas), 6 hours

3:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Settle into your NYC hotel and refresh before exploring the city.
Book a family-friendly hotel like the Hampton Inn near Times Square.
USD200, 1 hour

4:30PM

Visit Times Square

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Times Square with its dazzling lights and energy.
Walk from the hotel; no driving needed.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Carmine's Italian Restaurant

Enjoy family-style Italian dining where the portions are generous and everyone can share.
A short walk from Times Square.
USD80, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Broadway Show - Family Favorite

Wrap up your day with an exciting Broadway show suitable for the whole family.
Book tickets in advance and walk to the theater.
USD150, 3 hours
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Day 4: Discover NYC Highlights

New York City, NY on December 29, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ess-a-Bagel

Start your day with a hearty New York bagel, fresh and delicious.
A short drive or subway ride from your hotel.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Central Park

Take a stroll or a horse-drawn carriage ride through the iconic park, perfect for families.
Walk to the park from the cafe.
Free (carriage rides have cost), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Boat House

Dine at this scenic restaurant located right on the water within Central Park.
Located within Central Park, easy access.
USD60, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit The American Museum of Natural History

Spend the afternoon exploring fascinating exhibits, perfect for curious minds.
A quick 10-minute walk from The Boat House.
USD28, 3 hours

4:30PM

Explore the West Side and Hudson River Park

Walk along the river, where you can enjoy beautiful views and a relaxed atmosphere.
Take the subway or walk to the West Side.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Shake Shack

End the day with a casual dinner enjoying some of the best burgers and shakes in NYC.
A short walk from Hudson River Park.
USD40, 1 hour

8:00PM

Visit Rockefeller Center

Wrap up the evening with beautiful holiday lights and maybe even ice skating.
Easy walking distance from Shake Shack.
Free (skating has a cost), 1 hour
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Day 5: Iconic NYC Sites

New York City, NY on December 30, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Jacob's Pickles

Enjoy Southern-inspired breakfast options in a cozy atmosphere.
Accessible via a short subway ride from your hotel.
USD35, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Wander through one of the most iconic museums filled with art from around the world.
The museum is a short cab ride from the restaurant.
USD25, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The MET Rooftop Café

Dine with stunning views of Central Park right from the rooftop of The Met.
Located within the museum.
USD50, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

Take a ferry and explore the birthplace of American immigration.
Take a subway to Battery Park.
USD35, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Junior's Restaurant

Known for some of the best cheesecake in NYC along with classic American dishes.
Enjoy a short walk from the ferry terminal.
USD70, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Stroll Across Brooklyn Bridge

Experience breathtaking views of the NYC skyline while walking this iconic bridge.
Walk to the bridge entrance from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: New Year’s Eve Preparations

New York City, NY on December 31, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Grambrel

Start your day with a healthy breakfast at this family-friendly café.
Accessible by a short subway ride.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum

Pay tribute to the events of 9/11 while learning about the history of the site.
A quick subway ride from your breakfast location.
USD28, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Eataly NYC

Engage in a culinary experience with multiple Italian eateries and markets to explore.
Take a subway ride to the Flatiron District.
USD50, 2 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Empire State Building

Ascend to the observatory for breathtaking views of the city as you prepare for the night.
A short subway ride from Eataly.
USD42, 2 hours

5:00PM

New Year's Eve Dinner at The View

Enjoy a special New Year’s Eve dinner at NYC's only rotating restaurant with stunning views.
Book in advance and take a short subway ride.
USD150, 2 hours

7:00PM

Prepare for New Year’s Eve Celebrations

Find a good spot near Times Square to enjoy the festivities and countdown to the New Year.
Walk back to Times Square, crowds will form early.
Free, Treat this as ongoing
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