5-Day Family-Friendly Adventure Itinerary in NYC on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Exploring Manhattan

New York City, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ess-a-Bagel

Start the day with delicious New York-style bagels at this iconic eatery.
Walk to the nearest subway station.
CAD8, 1 hour

9:30AM

Central Park

Stroll through the beautiful Central Park, exploring the various playgrounds and grabbing a quick photo at Bethesda Fountain.
Take the Subway to 59th St. – Columbus Circle.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met)

Explore the vast collections at The Met, which offer something for everyone in the family.
Walk to The Met entrance.
Suggested donation CAD15, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Gray's Papaya

Enjoy a classic NYC hot dog and tropical fruit drink at this budget-friendly spot.
Walk to the nearest subway station and head to the UWS.
CAD10, 1 hour

2:30PM

Fifth Avenue Window Shopping

Experience iconic window displays along Fifth Avenue and visit landmarks like St. Patrick's Cathedral.
Walk down Fifth Ave.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Times Square

Marvel at the bright lights and vibrant energy of Times Square.
Walk to Times Square.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Joe's Pizza

End the day with classic New York pizza at this famous pizzeria.
Walk to Joe's Pizza.
CAD15, 1 hour

6:30PM

Evening at Bryant Park

Relax with the family at Bryant Park, often hosting free events.
Walk to Bryant Park.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: Discovering Brooklyn

Brooklyn, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Brooklyn Bagel & Coffee Company

Start the morning with an authentic New York bagel with all the fixings.
Take subway to Brooklyn.
CAD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Brooklyn Bridge

Walk across this historic bridge for breathtaking views of Manhattan.
Walk to Brooklyn Bridge.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Brooklyn Bridge Park

Spend time in the park for stunning views of the skyline and adjust to open green space.
Continue walking to the park.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Smorgasburg

Visit this outdoor food market and sample budget-friendly bites from local vendors.
Take the subway or bus to Smorgasburg.
CAD15, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

DUMBO

Explore this neighborhood's trendy shops, art galleries, and waterfront views.
Walk around DUMBO.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Brooklyn Museum

Admire art from ancient to contemporary at the Brooklyn Museum; pay-what-you-wish admission helps keep it budget-friendly.
Take the subway to Brooklyn Museum.
Suggested donation CAD10, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Roberta’s Pizza

Indulge in some of Brooklyn's best pizza that the whole family will love.
Bus or subway to Roberta's.
CAD20, 1 hour
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Day 3: Adventure in Queens

Queens, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bagel Oasis

Savor a fresh bagel and coffee at this local favorite in Queens.
Take subway to Bagel Oasis.
CAD8, 1 hour

9:30AM

Flushing Meadows-Corona Park

Visit this expansive park featuring the iconic Unisphere and many family-friendly attractions.
Take the subway to Flushing Meadows Park.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Queens Museum

Explore art exhibitions and the famous Panorama of the City of New York.
Walk to the Queens Museum.
CAD8, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Tacos El Bronco

Enjoy authentic tacos at this affordable and delicious spot in Astoria.
Take subway to Astoria.
CAD12, 1 hour

2:00PM

Astoria Park

Spend a relaxing afternoon at Astoria Park, where you can enjoy the playground and scenic views of the East River.
Walk to the park.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Museum of the Moving Image

Dive into the world of film and television with interactive exhibits; a fun experience for the whole family.
Take subway to the museum.
CAD15, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Arepa Lady

Try delicious Colombian Arepas for a unique yet affordable dining experience.
Bus to The Arepa Lady.
CAD15, 1 hour
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Day 4: Fun in The Bronx

The Bronx, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at City Island Diner

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with a coastal view at this family-friendly diner.
Take subway to City Island.
CAD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

City Island

Wander through this charming seaside community; great for kids to explore the beach.
Walk around City Island.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

The Bronx Zoo

Enjoy an exciting day at one of the largest metropolitan zoos, with suggested admission rates to help families save.
Take subway to Bronx Zoo.
Suggested donation CAD16, 3 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at The Bronx Beer Hall

Take a break for a casual but delicious lunch at this local favorite spot.
Walk to The Bronx Beer Hall.
CAD15, 1 hour

3:30PM

New York Botanical Garden

Explore beautiful gardens and exhibits, ideal for letting kids roam and appreciate nature.
Take subway to the Botanical Garden.
CAD15, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Louie & Ernie's Pizza

Savor some delicious Bronx-style pizza to end the day on a high note.
Bus or subway to the pizzeria.
CAD15, 1 hour
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Day 5: Relaxing on Staten Island

Staten Island, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Good Life

Enjoy a filling breakfast in this cozy café known for its hearty meals.
Take the ferry to Staten Island.
CAD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Staten Island Ferry Ride

Enjoy stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan skyline while crossing the harbor.
Board the ferry.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden

Discover art and gardens in this unique cultural venue tailored for families.
Walk to Snug Harbor.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Staten Island Yankee Stadium

Have lunch at the stadium's snack stands before catching a minor league game.
Take a bus to Yankee Stadium.
CAD12, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Staten Island Children’s Museum

Let the kids explore a variety of interactive exhibits designed to engage their creativity.
Walk to the museum.
CAD10, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Brownstone

Enjoy classic Italian dishes to cap off your Staten Island experience.
Walk to The Brownstone.
CAD20, 1 hour
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