Comprehensive 20-Day New York and Nearby Attractions Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Explore Manhattan

New York City, USA on June 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Ess-a-Bagel

Enjoy a classic New York bagel with a selection of cream cheeses in Midtown East, open from 7 AM to 5 PM. Ess-a-Bagel is renowned for its authentic NYC bagels.
USD10, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

Take the ferry from Battery Park to see the iconic Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Immigration Museum. The ferry operates from 8:30 AM to 4 PM, book tickets in advance to avoid lines.
USD25, 4h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Eataly NYC Downtown

Enjoy authentic Italian cuisine and fresh market offerings in the Financial District. Open from 11 AM to 10 PM.
USD30, 1h30m

3:30pm

Explore One World Observatory

Visit the observation deck for panoramic views of New York City. Open daily from 9 AM to 9 PM.
USD40, 1h30m

5:30pm

Walk across Brooklyn Bridge

Enjoy a scenic walk from Manhattan to Brooklyn at sunset for great photo opportunities and skyline views. Accessible anytime.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Juliana's Pizza

Have classic New York-style pizza in Brooklyn, open from 11:30 AM to 10 PM, famous for thin-crust pizzas baked in coal ovens.
USD25, 1h0m

Day 2: Central Park and Museums

New York City, USA on July 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Sarabeth's Central Park South

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with classic American fare just steps from Central Park. Open from 7 AM to 11 AM.
USD25, 1h0m

9:30am

Stroll through Central Park

Explore landmarks like Bethesda Terrace, Bow Bridge, and the Central Park Zoo, open daily from 6 AM to 1 AM.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Visit The Metropolitan Museum of Art

See world-class art collections spanning 5,000 years. Open from 10 AM to 5 PM.
USD30, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at The Loeb Boathouse Central Park

Dine lakeside with American and seafood options, open from 11:30 AM to 3 PM for lunch.
USD40, 1h30m

3:00pm

Visit American Museum of Natural History

Explore natural science and dinosaur exhibits. Open from 10 AM to 5:45 PM.
USD28, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Carmine's Italian Restaurant

Enjoy family-style Italian meals in the Theater District. Open from 4 PM to 11 PM.
USD35, 1h30m

Day 3: Brooklyn & Queens

New York City, USA on July 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bakeri, Williamsburg

Sample delicious Scandinavian bakery goods and coffee. Open from 7 AM to 3 PM.
USD15, 1h0m

9:30am

Explore Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Visit beautiful gardens featuring cherry blossoms and a Japanese garden. Open from 8 AM to 6 PM.
USD20, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Smorgasburg Food Market

Try diverse vendor foods at this open-air food market (open Saturdays, confirm before going).
USD20, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit MoMA PS1, Queens

Contemporary art museum open from 12 PM to 6 PM, showcasing experimental art.
USD10, 2h0m

4:00pm

Walk along Gantry Plaza State Park

Enjoy waterfront views of Manhattan from Queens with green spaces and piers.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Di Fara Pizza, Brooklyn

Famous for handcrafted pizzas with fresh ingredients, open from 12 PM to 9 PM.
USD30, 1h0m

Day 4: Hudson Valley Day Trip

Hudson Valley, USA on July 3, 2025

7:30am

Early Breakfast at Egg in Williamsburg

Hearty southern-inspired breakfast before heading north. Open from 7 AM to 3 PM.
USD20, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive to Hudson Valley

Travel approximately 2 hours north from NYC to the Hudson Valley region for nature and art.
USD0 (self-drive), 2h0m

11:00am

Visit Storm King Art Center

Outdoor sculpture park set in beautiful landscapes, open from 10 AM to 6 PM.
USD22, 3h0m

2:30pm

Lunch at The Culinary Institute of America, CIA Greystone

Enjoy gourmet cuisine prepared by top students in a historic setting, open 11 AM to 2 PM.
USD45, 1h0m

4:00pm

Walk through Beacon Main Street

Explore galleries, boutique shops, and cafes in the charming town of Beacon.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Return to NYC

Drive back to New York City to rest for the next day.
USD0, 2h0m

8:30pm

Light Dinner at Westville Hudson

Seasonal, simple American fare focusing on fresh vegetables. Open until 10 PM.
USD25, 1h0m

Day 5: Upstate New York Catskills

Catskills, USA on July 4, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Balthazar Bakery

Enjoy fresh French pastries and coffee to start the day. Opens at 7 AM.
USD15, 1h0m

8:00am

Drive to Catskills

Early morning 2.5-hour drive to the Catskills for hiking and nature.
USD0 (self-drive), 2h30m

10:30am

Hiking at Kaaterskill Falls

Visit one of the tallest waterfalls in New York State, a popular scenic hike. Accessible all day.
Free, 3h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Peekamoose Restaurant & Tap Room

Farm-to-table dining specializing in local ingredients, open 12 PM - 9 PM.
USD35, 1h0m

3:00pm

Explore Woodstock Town

Discover art galleries, boutique stores, and the famous Woodstock vibe.
Free, 2h0m

5:30pm

Return to NYC

Drive back to New York City for overnight stay.
USD0, 2h30m

8:30pm

Dinner at Los Tacos No.1

Casual dining with some of the best tacos in NYC, open until 10 PM.
USD20, 1h0m

Day 6: Explore Finger Lakes Region

Finger Lakes, USA on July 5, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at NYC Hotel

Grab a quick breakfast at the hotel before departing.
USD15, 0h45m

7:45am

Drive to Finger Lakes Region

Approximately 4.5-hour drive northwest to Finger Lakes, known for lakes and vineyards.
USD0, 4h30m

12:15pm

Lunch at FLX Table, Geneva

Seasonal, chef-driven tasting menu featuring local ingredients, lunch service from 12 PM.
USD50, 1h30m

2:00pm

Visit Watkins Glen State Park

Famous for its beautiful gorge and waterfall hikes. Park open from 8 AM to sunset.
USD10, 3h0m

5:30pm

Wine tasting at Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery

Sample award-winning Finger Lakes wines. Open 10 AM to 6 PM.
USD15, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at The Red Dove Tavern

Casual dining with local seasonal dishes in Geneva. Open until 9 PM.
USD35, 1h30m

Day 7: Finger Lakes to Niagara

Niagara Falls, USA on July 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before travel.
USD15, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive to Niagara Falls

Approximately 2.5-hour drive west to Niagara Falls area.
USD0, 2h30m

11:30am

Visit Niagara Falls State Park

Explore the iconic waterfalls and scenic points. Park open all day.
Free, 3h0m

2:30pm

Lunch at Top of the Falls Restaurant

Dining with views overlooking the falls, open 11 AM to 7 PM.
USD30, 1h30m

4:00pm

Maid of the Mist Boat Tour

Iconic boat ride near the base of the falls, operating typically 9 AM to early evening (seasonal).
USD25, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at The Silo Restaurant

Fine dining in Lewiston with seasonal menus. Open until 9 PM.
USD40, 1h30m

Day 8: Philadelphia Visit

Philadelphia, USA on July 7, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Early breakfast before departure.
USD15, 1h0m

8:00am

Drive to Philadelphia

Approximate 6 hours drive south to Philadelphia.
USD0, 6h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Reading Terminal Market

Sample a variety of local and international foods at this popular indoor market, open from 10 AM to 6 PM.
USD20, 1h30m

3:30pm

Visit Independence Hall and Liberty Bell

Explore key landmarks of American history. Open 9 AM to 5 PM with timed entry tickets.
USD0, 2h0m

6:00pm

Walk through Philadelphia's Old City

Enjoy historic streets filled with shops and galleries.
Free, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Zahav

Award-winning Israeli cuisine in a vibrant setting, open until 10 PM.
USD50, 1h30m

Day 9: Philadelphia to Washington DC

Washington, D.C., USA on July 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Sabrina's Cafe

Cozy spot known for brunch and hearty portions. Open from 7 AM.
USD20, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive to Washington D.C.

Approximate 2.5-hour drive from Philadelphia to the nation's capital.
USD0, 2h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Founding Farmers D.C.

Farm-to-table American cuisine with a commitment to sustainability, open from 11 AM.
USD35, 1h30m

1:30pm

Visit National Mall monuments

Explore Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Open outdoors any time.
Free, 3h0m

5:00pm

Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

Exhibits on aviation and space exploration, open 10 AM - 5:30 PM.
Free, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Old Ebbitt Grill

Historic tavern offering classic American dishes near the White House, open until 10 PM.
USD40, 1h30m

Day 10: Washington D.C. Museums and Capitol

Washington, D.C., USA on July 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Busboys and Poets

Cultural cafe with a creative menu. Open from 8 AM.
USD20, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit U.S. Capitol and Library of Congress

Take guided tours of iconic political landmarks. Capitol tours start from 8:30 AM; Library open from 8:30 AM.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Visit National Gallery of Art

World-renowned art museum with diverse collections, open from 10 AM to 5 PM.
Free, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at The Capital Grille

Upscale steakhouse with elegant atmosphere, open from 11:30 AM.
USD50, 1h30m

3:00pm

Explore Smithsonian Museum of American History

Exhibits on the nation’s cultural, social, and political history, open 10 AM to 5:30 PM.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Rasika

Highly regarded Indian cuisine near downtown DC, open until 10 PM.
USD40, 1h30m

Day 11: Return to NYC

New York City, USA on July 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel DC

Grab a quick breakfast before leaving.
USD15, 0h45m

9:00am

Drive back to New York City

Approximate 4-hour drive back to NYC.
USD0, 4h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Katz's Delicatessen

Famous New York deli known for pastrami sandwiches, open until 10 PM.
USD25, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit The High Line

Elevated urban park with art installations and city views, open 7 AM - 7 PM.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Chelsea Market Visit

Explore an indoor food hall and shopping space, open 7 AM to 9 PM.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Spotted Pig

Popular gastropub with seasonal dishes in West Village, open until 11 PM.
USD40, 1h30m

Day 12: Museums and Broadway

New York City, USA on July 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Clinton St. Baking Company

Famous for pancakes and coffee, open from 8 AM.
USD20, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

See an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art, open 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
USD25, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at The Modern

Upscale dining inside MoMA offering fine American cuisine, open 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM.
USD50, 1h30m

2:00pm

Explore Times Square

Experience the bustling heart of Manhattan with shops and bright lights, always open.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Relax at Bryant Park

Green space with seating and cafés beside the New York Public Library.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Sardi's

Iconic Broadway restaurant known for theatrical caricatures and classic dishes, open until 10 PM.
USD40, 1h30m

8:00pm

Watch a Broadway Show

See a musical or play in the Theater District. Evening shows start around 7 or 8 PM.
USD100+, 3h0m

Day 13: Day trip to Long Island Beaches

Long Island, USA on July 12, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Quick breakfast before traveling east.
USD15, 0h45m

7:45am

Drive to Long Island

Approx 1.5-hour drive to beaches like Jones Beach or the Hamptons.
USD0, 1h30m

9:30am

Beach time at Jones Beach State Park

Relax or swim at this popular public beach, open from 10 AM until sunset.
USD10 (parking), 4h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at The Lobster Roll, Amagansett

Famous casual seafood spot with great lobster rolls, open 11:30 AM to 8 PM.
USD30, 1h0m

3:00pm

Explore East Hampton Village

Boutiques, art galleries, and historic homes in a charming town.
Free, 2h0m

5:30pm

Drive back to NYC

Return to the city to rest.
USD0, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Westville East

Light American fare focusing on fresh vegetables, open until 10 PM.
USD25, 1h0m

Day 14: Harlem Culture & Historic Sites

New York City, USA on July 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Amy Ruth's

Soul food breakfast hotspot in Harlem, open 8 AM to 3 PM.
USD20, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit The Apollo Theater

Historic music venue offering guided tours and occasional sounds checks open by appointment.
USD15, 1h0m

11:00am

Explore Studio Museum in Harlem

Focuses on contemporary art by artists of African descent, open 11 AM to 6 PM.
USD10, 1h30m

12:45pm

Lunch at Sylvia's Restaurant

Iconic soul food restaurant open 11:30 AM to 9 PM, excellent classic dishes.
USD30, 1h0m

2:00pm

Walk in Marcus Garvey Park

Green space with interesting architectural features and a performance pavilion.
Free, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit the Cathedral of St. John the Divine

One of the largest cathedrals in the world, open daily 7 AM to 6 PM.
Free, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Red Rooster Harlem

Celebrates the roots of American cuisine and Harlem culture, open until 10 PM.
USD40, 1h30m

Day 15: Day Trip to Princeton, NJ

Princeton, USA on July 14, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Start the day with breakfast in NYC.
USD15, 0h45m

8:15am

Drive to Princeton, NJ

About 1.5-hour drive to Princeton to explore the university town.
USD0, 1h30m

10:00am

Tour Princeton University

Historic Ivy League campus famous for its Gothic architecture and museums, campus open all day.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Agricola Eatery

Farm-to-table dining in downtown Princeton, open 11:30 AM to 9 PM.
USD35, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Princeton Art Museum

Free-admission museum with diverse art collections, open 11 AM to 5 PM.
Free, 1h30m

3:00pm

Walk through downtown Princeton

Explore shops, cafes, and historic sites along Nassau Street.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Drive back to NYC

Return to New York City.
USD0, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Smith

Vibrant American brasserie with a wide menu, open until 11 PM.
USD35, 1h30m

Day 16: Explore Queens Cultural Sites

Queens, New York City, USA on July 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Taverna Kyclades

Well-known for authentic Greek breakfast items, open from 8 AM.
USD20, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Queens Botanical Garden

A peaceful garden showcasing native plants and special exhibits, open 10 AM to 5 PM.
USD8, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Jackson Diner

Popular for Indian cuisine in Jackson Heights, open 11 AM to 10 PM.
USD25, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Louis Armstrong House Museum

Tour the home of the jazz legend, tours available from 10 AM to 4 PM.
USD10, 1h30m

3:30pm

Explore Flushing Meadows Corona Park

Visit the site of two World’s Fairs with open meadows, lakes, and sculptures, open daily.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at The Queensboro

Casual spot with local beers and pub food in Long Island City, open until 11 PM.
USD30, 1h30m

Day 17: Museum Mile & Upper East Side

New York City, USA on July 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Sabarsky

A Viennese café located inside the Neue Galerie, open from 8 AM.
USD20, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit The Guggenheim Museum

Architecturally unique museum with modern and contemporary art, open 10 AM to 5:45 PM.
USD30, 1h30m

11:15am

Explore The Met Cloisters

Medieval art museum in a serene setting in Fort Tryon Park, 30-40 min subway ride, open 10 AM to 5:30 PM.
USD30, 2h30m

2:00pm

Lunch at The Dining Room at Met Cloisters

Seasonal fare in a medieval styled setting, open till 3 PM.
USD40, 1h0m

3:30pm

Walk through Riverside Park

Enjoy views of the Hudson River in this beautiful park along the Upper West Side.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at J.G. Melon

Famous casual burger joint on the Upper East Side, open till 11 PM.
USD25, 1h0m

Day 18: Coney Island & Brighton Beach

Brooklyn, New York City, USA on July 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Uptown Coffee & Waffles

Classic waffles and coffee in Brooklyn, open from 8 AM.
USD20, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Coney Island Boardwalk

Stroll along the iconic boardwalk, visit the beach, Luna Park amusement park open 11 AM onwards.
Free, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Nathan’s Famous

Landmark hot dog stand open 11 AM to 10 PM on the boardwalk.
USD15, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore Brighton Beach

Known as 'Little Odessa,' enjoy Russian eateries and the beach vibe.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Return to Manhattan

Head back for evening relaxation.
USD0, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Peter Luger Steakhouse

World famous Brooklyn steakhouse, open till 9 PM.
USD60, 1h30m

Day 19: Shopping and Relaxation

New York City, USA on July 18, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Buvette

Charming French bistro in Greenwich Village, open from 8 AM.
USD25, 1h0m

9:30am

Shopping at Fifth Avenue

Explore luxury stores and flagship shops along Fifth Avenue, open 10 AM to 8 PM.
Free (shopping costs extra), 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Serendipity 3

Famous for whimsical decor and frozen hot chocolate, open 11:30 AM to 10 PM.
USD30, 1h0m

2:00pm

Relax at Spa Castle

A Korean-style spa in Queens offering pools and sauna for relaxation, open till 10 PM.
USD45, 3h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Le Bernardin

Michelin-starred upscale seafood restaurant in Midtown, reservations required, open till 10 PM.
USD100+, 1h30m

Day 20: Final Day & Departure

New York City, USA on July 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Lalo

Popular for light breakfast and desserts near the Upper West Side, open from 8 AM.
USD20, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit The Whitney Museum of American Art

Focuses on 20th- and 21st-century American art, open 10:30 AM to 6 PM.
USD28, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Chelsea Market

Enjoy final bites of diverse cuisine before departure, open 7 AM to 9 PM.
USD25, 1h0m

1:30pm

Pack & Check-out

Prepare for departure to airport or next destination.
Free, 1h30m