11-Day Family NYC Itinerary with Viral Eats, Iconic Sights & Grocery Shopping Experience

Day 1: Midtown Icons & Viral Bagels

New York City, USA on May 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Ess-a-Bagel

Start your day with world-famous New York bagels at this viral spot renowned for their generous cream cheese spreads and authentic bagel texture. Opens at 6:00am.
USD10-15, 1h

9:30am

Empire State Building Observation Deck

Experience breathtaking 360-degree views from the 86th floor of this iconic skyscraper. Opens 8:00am-2:00am.
USD44/adult, USD38/child, 1h30m

11:30am

Visit the New York Public Library & Bryant Park

Pause to admire the historic Beaux-Arts architecture of the library and enjoy the green space of Bryant Park nearby.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Los Tacos No.1 (Chelsea Market)

Enjoy authentic Mexican street-style tacos at this viral Chelsea Market hotspot, perfect for a flavorful, quick family lunch.
USD15-20/person, 1h

2:00pm

Walk through Times Square

Explore the bright lights, world-famous billboards, and street performers in the heart of Midtown Manhattan.
Free, 1h

3:30pm

Madame Tussauds New York

Pose with famous celebrity wax figures at this popular interactive museum. Open 10:00am-10:00pm.
USD40/adult, USD35/child, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Prince Street Pizza

Try the viral 'SoHo Square' pepperoni pizza slice at this cult favorite pizzeria, a crowd-pleaser for families.
USD5-10/slice, 1h
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Day 2: Downtown Sights & Market Eats

New York City, USA on May 6, 2025

7:30am

Grab quick breakfast at Doughnut Plant

Indulge in their viral and colorful artisanal doughnuts, beloved by locals and visitors. Opens 7:00am.
USD5-8, 30m

8:00am

Ferry to Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

Catch the ferry from Battery Park and explore the iconic Statue of Liberty plus Ellis Island’s immigrant history. Ferry hours 8:30am-5:00pm.
USD23/adult, USD12/child, 4h

1:00pm

Lunch at Eataly NYC Downtown

Experience Italian gourmet food at this viral Italian marketplace, offering family-friendly options and quality produce.
USD20-35/person, 1h

2:30pm

9/11 Memorial and Museum

Reflect at the powerful memorial pools and visit the emotionally moving museum. Open 9:00am-8:00pm.
USD26/adult, USD15/child, 2h

5:00pm

Walk Brooklyn Bridge

Walk the iconic bridge into Brooklyn for spectacular views and a memorable experience.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Smorgasburg (Seasonal) or Juliana’s Pizza

If open, explore famous open-air food market Smorgasburg for viral eats, otherwise enjoy renowned Juliana’s Pizza, both ideal for families.
USD15-30/person, 1h30m
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Day 3: Central Park & Museum Mile

New York City, USA on May 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Russ & Daughters Café

Relish New York’s iconic smoked fish and bagels at this viral Lower East Side institution with a modern café twist. Opens 8:00am.
USD20-30, 1h

9:30am

Explore Central Park

Visit the Central Park Zoo, Belvedere Castle, and hit playgrounds perfect for kids’ active play.
Zoo USD19/adult, USD14/child; Park free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at The Loeb Boathouse

Dine with views of the lake, a viral location inside the park serving accessible seasonal dishes.
USD25-40/person, 1h30m

2:30pm

American Museum of Natural History

Explore exciting exhibits from dinosaurs to space, beloved by kids and adults alike. Open 10:00am-5:30pm.
USD28/adult, USD16/child suggested donation, 2h30m

5:30pm

Relax Upper West Side Neighborhood

Walk through the lively streets and enjoy casual shops and local viral eateries.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Levain Bakery

Celebrate with the best viral cookies, sandwiches, and pastries in a cozy setting; opens until 8:00pm.
USD10-15, 1h
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Day 4: Brooklyn Food & Parks

Brooklyn, New York, USA on May 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bagelsmith

Taste freshly made bagels at this viral Brooklyn spot known for quality and classic NY flavors. Opens 7:30am.
USD8-12, 1h

9:00am

Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Explore the beautiful gardens and seasonal displays perfect for leisurely family exploration. Open 8:00am-6:00pm.
USD20/adult, USD12/child, 2h

11:30am

Brooklyn Museum

Discover diverse artistic works and interactive exhibits for both children and adults. Open 11:00am-6:00pm.
USD16/adult, free under 19, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Smorgasburg or Dekalb Market Hall

Enjoy an array of trendy viral food choices at these bustling Brooklyn marketplaces with cuisine for every taste.
USD15-30/person, 1h

3:00pm

Brooklyn Bridge Park

Enjoy waterfront playgrounds, picnic areas, and stunning Manhattan skyline views.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Juliana’s Pizza

Finish with classic viral pizza favorites in a welcoming Brooklyn pizzeria with a family atmosphere.
USD25-35/person, 1h30m
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Day 5: Museum Mile & Iconic Food Finds

New York City, USA on May 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Zabar’s

Visit this famous Jewish deli for viral smoked fish, bagels, and fresh baked goods on the Upper West Side. Opens 7:30am.
USD15-25, 1h

9:30am

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Explore vast art collections from ancient worlds to modern times. Great for families with kid-friendly guides. Open 10:00am-5:30pm.
USD30/adult, free under 12, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Met Dining Room

Conveniently dine inside the museum with seasonal menus suitable for all ages.
USD20-30/person, 1h

2:00pm

The Guggenheim Museum

Enjoy unique architecture and modern art collections in this Frank Lloyd Wright landmark. Open 11:00am-6:00pm.
USD30/adult, free under 12, 1h30m

3:45pm

Walk and Rest in Central Park

Relax at Conservatory Water or stroll on the trails before an afternoon snack.
Free, 1h

5:00pm

Snack at Levain Bakery

Grab their famously gooey, buttery cookies for a viral sweet treat.
USD5-10, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at P.J. Clarke’s

Dine at this historic American tavern known for burgers and classic dishes with a viral fan base.
USD30-40/person, 1h30m
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Day 6: Chelsea & The High Line Foodie Tour

New York City, USA on May 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Sarabeth’s South

Enjoy viral pancakes and brunch classics near Chelsea Market; opens 7:30am.
USD20-30, 1h

9:30am

Walk The High Line

Discover gardens, art, and city views on this elevated urban park. Open 7:00am-10:00pm.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Chelsea Market’s The Lobster Place

Indulge in fresh viral seafood dishes including lobster rolls in the bustling food hall.
USD20-30/person, 1h

1:30pm

Whitney Museum of American Art

Explore contemporary art with family-friendly interactive exhibits. Open 10:30am-6:00pm.
USD30/adult, USD20/child, 2h

3:30pm

Hudson River Park stroll

Relax by the river at a popular local spot with playgrounds and green spaces.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Los Mariscos

Enjoy viral Mexican seafood tacos at this casual Chelsea gem favored by locals.
USD25-35/person, 1h30m
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Day 7: Bronx Zoo & Botanical Market

Bronx, New York, USA on May 11, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at City Island’s The Original Crabhouse

Experience a viral crowd favorite with seafood breakfast options near the Bronx Zoo. Opens 7:00am.
USD15-25, 1h

8:30am

Bronx Zoo

Discover one of the largest zoos with engaging animal exhibits for the whole family. Open 10:00am-5:00pm.
USD25/adult, USD17/child, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Dancing Crane Café

Grab a quick meal inside the zoo offering family friendly dishes and snacks.
USD15-20/person, 1h

1:30pm

New York Botanical Garden visit

Explore beautiful gardens, family trails, and seasonal displays with viral horticulture highlights. Open 10:00am-6:00pm.
USD30/adult, USD15/child, 2h30m

4:00pm

Return to Manhattan to relax

Rest after a day in nature and prepare for dinner.
Free, Unspecified

7:00pm

Dinner at Red Rooster Harlem

Savor viral soul food in a vibrant setting with live music and a family-friendly atmosphere.
USD30-40/person, 1h30m
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Day 8: Harlem Culture & Riverside Stroll

New York City, USA on May 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Amy Ruth's

Enjoy viral southern-style breakfast specialties famous in Harlem, such as chicken & waffles. Opens 8:00am.
USD15-20, 1h

9:30am

Apollo Theater Tour & Historic Harlem Walk

Learn about Harlem's cultural heritage with a guided tour of the iconic Apollo Theater and surrounding landmarks.
USD15/adult, USD10/child, 1h30m

11:30am

Community Grocery Shopping at Whole Foods Harlem

Visit this viral grocery store featuring curated organic and local products, great for finding NYC snacks and souvenirs.
Free to browse, 45m

12:30pm

Lunch at Sylvia’s Restaurant

Enjoy world-famous soul food including fried chicken and sides in this Harlem institution loved for its authentic flavors.
USD20-30/person, 1h

2:00pm

Relaxing walk at Riverside Park

Explore playgrounds, riverside walking paths, and beautiful picnic spots perfect for family downtime.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Return to Midtown for evening

Prepare for dinner or rest after a full day.
Free, Unspecified

7:00pm

Dinner at The Smith

Family-friendly American bistro serving comfort food with viral cocktails and relaxed vibe; open until 11:00pm.
USD25-35/person, 1h30m
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Day 9: MoMA & Rockefeller Center

New York City, USA on May 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Ess-a-Bagel (Second visit)

Enjoy a repeat visit to this viral bagel favorite before an art-filled day.
USD10-15, 1h

9:00am

Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

Explore iconic and innovative modern artworks with kid-friendly guides and multimedia exhibits. Open 10:30am-5:30pm.
USD25/adult, free under 16, 2h

11:30am

Rockefeller Center & Top of the Rock

Visit the art deco landmark with its viral ice rink and city views from the observation deck. Opens 8:00am-12:00am.
USD40/adult, USD34/child, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Magnolia Bakery

Savor viral cupcakes and classic American bakery treats near Rockefeller Center.
USD10-15, 1h

3:00pm

Fifth Avenue Shopping & St. Patrick’s Cathedral

Stroll NYC’s iconic shopping street and visit the breathtaking cathedral for architecture and culture.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Modern

Dine upscale in MoMA’s Michelin-starred restaurant with a children’s menu available for family celebrations.
USD50-70/person, 1h30m
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Day 10: Greenwich Village & Chelsea Foodie Walk

New York City, USA on May 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Best Bagel & Coffee

Sample viral bagel sandwiches and classic NYC coffee in the West Village, a beloved local spot. Opens 7:00am.
USD8-12, 1h

9:30am

Washington Square Park & Village Stroll

Relax in the iconic park known for its arch and lively atmosphere, then explore surrounding streets and shops.
Free, 1h30m

11:00am

Lunch at Artichoke Basille's Pizza

Enjoy viral oversized pizza slices with unique toppings, perfect for sharing with kids.
USD15-20/person, 1h

12:30pm

Rubin Museum of Art

Interactive Himalayan and Tibetan art exhibits engage children and adults alike. Open 11:00am-6:00pm.
USD19/adult, free under 18, 1h30m

2:00pm

Chelsea Piers Recreation Center

Enjoy family-friendly activities such as mini-golf, bowling, or skating at this large sports complex.
USD20-40/person per activity, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Meatball Shop

Casual dining with viral meatball dishes that kids and adults love. Open until 10:00pm.
USD20-30/person, 1h30m
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Day 11: SoHo Shopping & Departure

New York City, USA on May 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Breads Bakery

Start the final day with fresh breads, pastries, and viral babka at this beloved NYC bakery.
USD10-15, 1h

9:30am

SoHo Shopping Walk

Explore trendy boutiques, famous brand stores, and art galleries in one of NYC’s most vibrant shopping neighborhoods.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Jack's Wife Freda

Enjoy Mediterranean-inspired dishes at this popular viral hotspot known for fresh flavors and casual ambiance.
USD20-30/person, 1h

1:30pm

Pack and Prepare for Departure

Return to your accommodation to gather your belongings and relax before heading to the airport or next destination.
Free, Unspecified
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