4-Day Summer Exploration of New York City in July 2025

Day 1: Midtown Highlights

New York City, USA on July 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Ess-a-Bagel

Start your day with a classic New York bagel from this beloved Midtown spot, known for its fresh, fluffy bagels and wide variety of spreads.
USD5-10, 0h45m

9:00am

Visit the Empire State Building

Experience iconic 360-degree views of New York City from the 86th-floor observatory. The building opens at 8:00am, making it perfect for an early visit to avoid crowds.
USD44, 1h30m

11:00am

Walk to Bryant Park and New York Public Library

Relax in Bryant Park, a beautiful green space, and visit the historic New York Public Library next door with its iconic architecture and exhibitions.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Modern

Enjoy a refined lunch at The Modern, a Michelin-starred restaurant inside the Museum of Modern Art, offering exquisite contemporary American cuisine with views of the sculpture garden.
USD50-70, 1h30m

2:30pm

Visit the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

Explore one of the leading modern art museums in the world, home to works by artists such as Van Gogh, Warhol, and Picasso. Open 10:30am-5:30pm on Tuesdays to Sundays.
USD25, 2h

5:00pm

Stroll along Fifth Avenue

Enjoy window shopping and the vibrant vibe of New York’s famous shopping street, soaking in iconic landmarks like St. Patrick's Cathedral.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Keens Steakhouse

Finish the day with a classic New York steak dinner at Keens, known for its historic atmosphere and excellent mutton chop.
USD60-80, 1h30m
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Day 2: Lower Manhattan & Brooklyn

New York City, USA on July 2, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Blue Spoon Coffee

Fuel up with artisanal coffee and light pastries before a busy day of sightseeing in Lower Manhattan.
USD10-15, 0h45m

9:30am

Visit Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

Take the ferry from Battery Park to these iconic American landmarks, learning about the country's immigrant history. Ferry operates starting 8:30am; allow at least 3 hours for the trip.
USD24, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Fraunces Tavern

Enjoy traditional American and colonial-inspired dishes in this historic tavern frequented by founding fathers, located near the Battery Park ferry terminal.
USD25-40, 1h

2:30pm

Explore 9/11 Memorial & Museum

Pay respects at the Memorial pools and visit the Museum showcasing artifacts and stories from the tragic events of 2001. Open 9:00am-8:00pm in July.
USD26, 2h

5:00pm

Walk the Brooklyn Bridge to Dumbo

Take a scenic walk across the Brooklyn Bridge to the Dumbo neighborhood, offering fantastic photo ops of Manhattan skyline, galleries and boutiques.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Cecconi’s Dumbo

Enjoy chic Italian dining with spectacular views of the Manhattan Bridge in this stylish waterfront restaurant.
USD50-70, 1h30m
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Day 3: Central Park & Museums

New York City, USA on July 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Sarabeth’s Central Park South

Indulge in classic American breakfast favorites at this popular spot near Central Park, known for fresh ingredients and great pastries.
USD20-30, 1h

9:30am

Bike or Walk through Central Park

Explore Central Park’s scenic pathways, lakes, and landmarks like Bethesda Terrace and Bow Bridge during the cooler morning hours. Open daily from 6:00am to 1:00am.
Bike rental USD15-20, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Loeb Boathouse

Enjoy lakeside dining at this iconic Central Park restaurant with a casual menu and beautiful surroundings.
USD30-50, 1h

1:30pm

Visit The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Spend the afternoon at this world-famous museum exploring vast collections from ancient to modern art. Open 10:00am-5:30pm in July.
USD30, 3h

5:00pm

Stroll along Museum Mile to Guggenheim

Visit the Guggenheim Museum, noted for its unique architecture and modern art collection, open until 7:45pm on Wednesdays and Fridays.
USD25, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Cafe Sabarsky

Dine on Austrian specialties in a sophisticated setting inspired by Viennese coffee houses, located inside the Neue Galerie.
USD40-60, 1h30m
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Day 4: Harlem & Upper West

New York City, USA on July 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Amy Ruth's

Savor classic Southern-style breakfast and brunch dishes at this Harlem staple known for its warm atmosphere and soul food.
USD15-25, 1h

9:30am

Visit The Apollo Theater

Explore this historic music hall famous for launching careers of legendary artists. Guided tours are available and the theater may have performances or events on 4th July.
USD15, 1h

11:00am

Walk through Marcus Garvey Park

Relax in this beautifully maintained Harlem park, a community hub with green spaces and views of surrounding neighborhoods.
Free, 45m

12:00pm

Lunch at Red Rooster Harlem

Enjoy elevated comfort food celebrating the roots of American cuisine with live music and a vibrant atmosphere.
USD30-50, 1h30m

2:00pm

Explore American Museum of Natural History

Head to the Upper West Side to spend a few hours discovering world-class exhibits of science and natural history. Open daily 10:00am-5:45pm in July.
USD28, 3h

5:30pm

Stroll along Riverside Park

Unwind with a scenic walk along this peaceful waterfront park stretching along the Hudson River on the Upper West Side.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Jacob’s Pickles

Experience hearty Southern-inspired American dishes paired with craft beers in a cozy, lively environment to end your NYC trip.
USD25-45, 1h30m
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