5-Day Shoestring Budget New York City Itinerary

  • Day 1: Satisfy Your Cravings in Koreatown
    0 minutes (0 miles) from Hampton Inn 34th Street near Empire State Building

    Koreatown is located in Midtown Manhattan and is known for its incredible food options, including ramen and sushi. Start the day in this vibrant and lively neighborhood and visit a local establishment for breakfast. Afterwards, explore the various shops and markets that line the streets. Don't forget to try the various street-food stands for a tasty and budget-friendly lunch. End the evening at Capitol Grill Restaurant for a dinner of juicy and buttery steaks.

  • Day 2: Discover Central Park
    10 minutes (3.1 miles) from Koreatown

    Central Park is an iconic destination and a must-visit in New York City. Grab a coffee from a local cafe and enjoy a morning walk around the park. While exploring, check out the various gardens, fountains, statues, and ponds. If the weather is nice, rent a rowboat or bike to experience even more of the park. For lunch, grab a quick bite from a street vendor that offers affordable food options. In the evening, find a spot to have a picnic and relax.

  • Day 3: Culture and History in Lower East Side
    20 minutes (4.8 miles) from Central Park

    The Lower East Side is a neighborhood packed with culture and history. Start the day visiting the Tenement Museum and learn about the lives of immigrants in the early 20th century. Afterwards, head to the New Museum of Contemporary Art for some modern art exhibits. Enjoy a late lunch at local eatery like Mission Chinese Food, known for its flavorful Chinese cuisine in a minimalist setting. End the night at the rooftops of Lower East side, Avenue A rooftop bars providing outstanding views of the city skyline.

  • Day 4: Sensational Street Art Tour
    20 minutes (4.7 miles) from Lower East Side

    New York City is home to some of the best street art in the world. Start the day by joining a street art walking tour at Bushwick Collective. The tour offers an insight into the vibrant and diverse artistic community of Brooklyn. Explore the art galleries, studios and murals that make up the majority of the neighborhood's landscape. Go for a budget friendly lunch of pizza on a local pizzeria that offers great deals. For dinner, check out a lively and rustic Italian-American restaurant, like Rao's, best for its seafood and pasta dishes.

  • Day 5: Iconic attractions in Midtown Manhattan
    20 minutes (3.1 miles) from Bushwick Collective

    Wrap up your NYC tour with a visit to Midtown Manhattan, home to some of the city's most iconic attractions. Start at the Empire State Building and enjoy the breathtaking views of the city skyline. Next, walk over and check out the bright lights of Times Square. Stop for lunch at a nearby street vendor like Sabrett Hotdog stand for a quintessential New York experience. End the trip with a visit to the Museum of Modern Art for some art and culture.

Time and Costs Estimates:

  • Korean Breakfast in Koreatown (1 hr, $10)
  • Capitol Grill Restaurant (1.5 hrs, $50)
  • Coffee in Central Park (1 hr, $5)
  • Central Park Rentals (2 hrs, $20)
  • Tenement Museum (2 hrs, $25)
  • New Museum of Contemporary Art (2 hrs, $20)
  • Mission Chinese Food (1.5 hrs, $20)
  • Bushwick Collective Street Art Tour (3 hrs, $30)
  • Rao's Restaurant (1.5 hrs, $50)
  • Empire State Building (2 hrs, $40)
  • Times Square (1 hr, free)
  • Museum of Modern Art (2 hrs, $25)

  • Total Estimated Costs: $295

Transportation:

As a budget-conscious traveler, consider using city's public transport system including subway, bus or walking. Don't forget to download and use Google Maps for easy and cost-effective navigations.

Useful Tips:

If you have an extra day, visit the High Line Park, one of the most unique public parks in the world. Despite being in a bustling city, it offers peace and tranquility with its lush greenery and outstanding architecture. However, if you have less than 5 days, remove Museums from your itinerary as it will require a considerable amount of time and expenses.

Airports:

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is located 16 miles southeast of Manhattan's Times Square. Ground transportation to and from JFK is provided by taxis, shuttles, public buses, and the MTA Subway's A Train. Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) is located 16 miles southwest of Manhattan's Times Square. Ground transportation options include taxis, shuttles, NJ Transit, and the Newark AirTrain.

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