Affordable 5-Month Stay Itinerary in New York City

Day 1: Budget Manhattan Introduction

New York City, USA on May 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Ess-a-Bagel

Start your day with authentic New York bagels at Ess-a-Bagel, offering generous portions at reasonable prices.
USD5, 0h30m

9:00am

Walk the Financial District

Explore iconic spots such as Wall Street and the Charging Bull. This walking tour is free and introduces you to New York’s economic heart.
USD0, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Los Tacos No.1

Enjoy affordable, authentic Mexican street-style tacos in Chelsea Market, open daily from 11am to 9pm.
USD10, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit the High Line

Stroll the elevated park built on a historic freight rail line offering great views and green spaces, open from 7am to 10pm.
USD0, 1h30m

5:00pm

Check-in at HI NYC Hostel

Affordable and well-rated hostel in Manhattan providing budget accommodations for long stays.
USD900/month, 0h45m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Halal Guys

Famous for quick, affordable Middle Eastern platters, ideal for budget dining near Midtown, open late.
USD8, 1h0m

Day 2: Cultural Uptown

New York City, USA on May 4, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Harlem Shake

Affordable American diner offering hearty breakfast options, open from 8am to 10pm.
USD10, 1h0m

10:00am

Visit the Apollo Theater

Check out tours or events at the famous music hall. Tours are available on weekdays from 10am to 4pm, tickets reasonably priced.
USD15, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Melba’s

Enjoy soul food staples at this budget-friendly Harlem restaurant, open from 11:30am to 9:30pm.
USD15, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore Central Park

Spend your afternoon strolling or biking through Central Park, a vast green oasis in the city, open daily from 6am to 1am with no entrance fee.
USD0, 3h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Red Rooster

Well-known for its comfort food celebrating Harlem’s roots; offers budget dinner specials during weekdays.
USD20, 1h30m

Day 3: Brooklyn Experience

New York City, USA on May 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Butler Bakeshop

Start with affordable, delicious pastries and coffee at this popular Brooklyn café, open 7am to 3pm.
USD7, 1h0m

9:30am

Walk Brooklyn Bridge Park

Explore this waterfront park with panoramic Manhattan views, a perfect free outdoor activity open from 6am to 1am.
USD0, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Di Fara Pizza

Enjoy authentic and affordable Brooklyn pizza, open from 12pm to 8pm on weekdays.
USD15, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Brooklyn Museum

Explore diverse art collections with affordable entry fees, open Wednesday to Sunday 11am to 6pm.
USD16, 2h0m

5:30pm

Check-in at The Local NYC Hostel

Budget hostel in Long Island City offering long-term stays under a month with convenient access to Manhattan.
USD800/month, 0h45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Shake Shack (Brooklyn Location)

Affordable casual dining with classic burgers and shakes open until 11pm.
USD10, 1h0m

Day 4: Queens Discovery

New York City, USA on May 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Queens Comfort

Budget-friendly American diner known for hearty breakfasts, open daily from 8am to 3am.
USD10, 1h0m

10:00am

Explore Flushing Meadows Corona Park

Visit this large park with landmarks like the Unisphere and Queens Museum, open from 6am to 9pm free entry.
USD0, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Xi’an Famous Foods

Affordable and mouthwatering hand-pulled noodle dishes open 11am to 9pm.
USD12, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Queens Botanical Garden

Enjoy peaceful gardens and themed exhibits, open 10am to 4:30pm with low admission costs.
USD6, 1h30m

5:00pm

Dinner at The Arepa Lady

Try affordable Colombian arepas at this beloved local spot open until 9pm.
USD10, 1h0m