Comprehensive 20-Day New York and Nearby Excursion Itinerary for an Immersive Experience

Day 1: NYC Introduction

New York City, USA on June 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Ess-a-Bagel

Start your morning with the classic New York bagel at Ess-a-Bagel, famous for its dense and fresh bagels with unique cream cheese spreads. Opens at 7am, perfect for an early start.
USD12, 1h0m

9:30am

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tour

Take a ferry from Battery Park to visit these iconic historic landmarks. The tour offers insightful views into immigration history and a close-up look at Lady Liberty. The first ferry departs at 8:30am and tickets are best booked in advance.
USD25, 4h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Katz's Delicatessen

Enjoy a classic pastrami sandwich at this legendary deli on the Lower East Side, open daily from 8am to midnight.
USD25, 1h0m

3:30pm

Walk the High Line Park

Experience this elevated linear park built on a historic freight rail line offering art installations and scenic views of the Hudson River and Manhattan. Open daily from 7am to 10pm.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at The Modern

Dine at this upscale restaurant inside MoMA, known for its contemporary American cuisine and elegant setting. Dinner service starts at 5:30pm, reservation recommended.
USD80, 2h0m
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Day 2: Cultural Midtown

New York City, USA on July 1, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Bouchon Bakery

Located in the Time Warner Center, this bakery offers French pastries and coffee to fuel your day. Opens at 7am.
USD15, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

Explore one of the world's leading modern art museums with works from Van Gogh, Warhol, and Picasso. Opens at 10:30am so arrive early for timed entry tickets.
USD25, 2h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at The Halal Guys

Try the famous street food with platters of chicken and gyro over rice, a New York staple. Open from 11am to midnight.
USD12, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore Central Park

Walk or bike through this iconic urban park featuring landmarks like Bethesda Terrace, Bow Bridge, and the Central Park Zoo. Park open 6am to 1am, biking rentals around available.
Free, 3h0m

6:00pm

Broadway Show

Enjoy a world-class Broadway performance in the Theater District. Shows typically start at 7:00pm; book tickets well in advance.
USD100+, 3h0m

9:30pm

Dinner at Joe Allen

Casual yet cozy American bistro known for its theater crowd and classic dishes, perfect post-show dining. Open till midnight.
USD40, 1h0m
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Day 3: Financial District & Views

New York City, USA on July 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Leo’s Bagels

Freshly baked bagels with unique flavors in the Financial District. Opens at 7am on weekdays.
USD10, 1h0m

9:00am

One World Observatory

Visit the top of One World Trade Center for panoramic views of the city, Statue of Liberty, and beyond. Opens at 9am, best to get early tickets.
USD38, 2h0m

11:30am

Visit 9/11 Memorial & Museum

Pay respects at the memorial pools and the extensive museum detailing the events and legacy of 9/11. Museum opens at 9am.
USD26, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Eataly NYC Downtown

Indulge in Italian specialties and fresh market produce located near the World Trade Center. Open 11:30am to 9pm.
USD30, 1h0m

3:00pm

Walk Across Brooklyn Bridge

Enjoy a scenic walk from Manhattan to Brooklyn with spectacular skyline views. Open anytime; best in daylight.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Explore DUMBO, Brooklyn

Experience trendy shops, waterfront parks, and the famous view of Manhattan Bridge from Washington Street. Great for photographs and coffee breaks.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Cecconi’s DUMBO

Upscale Italian cuisine with riverside ambiance; perfect end-of-day dining. Open from 5pm.
USD70, 2h0m
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Day 4: Museum Mile & Upper East Side

New York City, USA on July 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Sarabeth’s Central Park South

Renowned for its classic American breakfast and pastries, a great place to start a culture-packed day. Opens at 8am.
USD25, 1h0m

9:30am

Metropolitan Museum of Art

Spend the morning exploring one of the world's greatest art museums, from ancient artifacts to contemporary art. Opens at 10am, closed Wednesdays.
USD30, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at The Dining Room at the Met

Enjoy a refined lunch within the museum, offering seasonal fare with elegant surroundings.
USD40, 1h0m

2:30pm

Explore The Guggenheim Museum

Visit this iconic circular building showcasing a remarkable modern art collection and architecture. Opens at 11am, closed Thursdays.
USD25, 1h30m

4:30pm

Stroll Central Park Conservatory Garden

Relax in this beautifully maintained formal garden in the northeast corner of Central Park. Open from 8am to sunset.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Cafe Boulud

Michelin-starred French cuisine in an elegant setting on Upper East Side. Dinner served from 5pm; reservations recommended.
USD80, 2h0m
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Day 5: Independence Day

New York City, USA on July 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bubby's Tribeca

Famous for hearty American breakfasts with locally sourced ingredients. Opens at 8am.
USD25, 1h0m

10:00am

Visit The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

Explore historic aircraft carrier exhibits, aircraft, and the Space Shuttle Enterprise. Open 10am-5pm on July 4th.
USD40, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Smorgasburg Food Market

A seasonal open-air food market featuring diverse gourmet vendors. Open July 4th from 11am to 6pm in the Brooklyn location.
USD20, 1h30m

3:00pm

Relax in Brooklyn Bridge Park

Enjoy evening views of Manhattan skyline and calm riverside paths. Park open until 1am.
Free, 2h0m

7:00pm

Watch Macy’s July 4 Fireworks

Celebrate Independence Day with the iconic fireworks display over the East River, viewable from multiple spots including Brooklyn Bridge Park and the East River Esplanade. Starts around 9:20pm.
Free, 2h0m
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Day 6: Harlem & Upper Manhattan

New York City, USA on July 5, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Amy Ruth’s

Taste the best soul food breakfast including sweet potato pancakes, located in Harlem. Opens at 8am.
USD20, 1h0m

10:00am

Visit The Apollo Theater

Take a guided tour of this landmark venue known for launching major African American artists. Tours available daily from 10am.
USD15, 1h0m

12:00pm

Explore The Studio Museum in Harlem

Contemporary art museum showcasing work by artists of African descent. Open 11am-6pm.
USD10, 1h30m

1:30pm

Lunch at Sylvia’s Restaurant

Iconic Harlem restaurant famous for authentic soul food and live music brunch, serving from 11am.
USD30, 1h30m

3:30pm

Walk in Riverside Park

Relax along the Hudson River promenade in this scenic park stretching from 72nd to 158th streets.
Free, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Red Rooster Harlem

Experience upscale Harlem dining with globally influenced comfort food and vibrant atmosphere. Open from 5pm.
USD50, 2h0m
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Day 7: Day Trip to Hudson Valley

Hudson Valley, USA on July 6, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at NY Deli

Grab a quick New York style breakfast to go from a local deli before departure.
USD10, 0h30m

8:00am

Drive to Hudson Valley

Travel north to Hudson Valley, known for its natural beauty, vineyards, and historic estates. Approximately 2-hour drive.
USD20 fuel cost approx., 2h0m

10:00am

Visit Walkway Over the Hudson

Experience stunning views from the world’s longest elevated pedestrian bridge. Open at sunrise through sunset.
Free, 1h0m

11:30am

Explore Olana State Historic Site

Tour the historic home and studio of Frederic Edwin Church, a 19th-century landscape painter, with beautiful grounds. Open 10am-5pm.
USD15, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at The Garrison

Casual riverside restaurant with excellent views and American cuisine. Open from noon.
USD40, 1h30m

3:00pm

Visit Hudson Valley Wineries

Tour and tasting at Brothers Bridge Winery or Whitecliff Vineyard & Winery, open from 1-6pm.
USD20 tasting fee, 2h0m

6:00pm

Drive back to NYC

Return to New York City for overnight stay. Expect light evening traffic.
USD20 fuel cost approx., 2h0m
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Day 8: Westchester County Excursion

Westchester County, USA on July 7, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Little Collins

Enjoy Australian-style coffee and breakfast in NYC before heading out to Westchester. Opens at 8am.
USD18, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Kykuit - Rockefeller Estate

Travel approximately 1 hour north to this historic Rockefeller family home and gardens. Tours start at 11am but arrive early.
USD25, 2h0m

11:00am

Tour Kykuit Estate

Explore art collections, landscaped gardens, and stunning architecture of the Rockefeller estate with a guided tour.
Included above, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Blue Hill at Stone Barns

Farm-to-table restaurant offering seasonal fare made from local ingredients. Open for lunch from noon, reservations essential.
USD70, 2h0m

4:00pm

Visit Lyndhurst Mansion

Tour this Gothic Revival mansion with significant grounds and Hudson River views. Open 12pm-5pm on weekdays.
USD15, 1h30m

6:00pm

Drive back to NYC

Return to your New York City accommodation in early evening.
USD15 fuel cost approx., 1h0m
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Day 9: Philadelphia Day Trip

Philadelphia, USA on July 8, 2025

6:30am

Early Breakfast at NYC Hotel

Start with an early hearty breakfast at your hotel or nearby cafe to prepare for a day trip.
USD20, 0h30m

7:00am

Take Amtrak train to Philadelphia

Departure from Penn Station, approx. 1hr 30min trip to Philadelphia's 30th Street Station.
USD60, 1h30m

9:00am

Visit Independence Hall & Liberty Bell

Tour the birthplace of American democracy and see the iconic Liberty Bell. Open 9am-5pm.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Walk through Philadelphia Museum of Art & Rocky Steps

Climb the famous steps and explore outside the museum; inside visits may be limited. Museum open 10am-5pm.
USD25, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Reading Terminal Market

Sample local specialties such as Philly cheesesteaks and Pennsylvania Dutch fare. Open 8am-6pm.
USD20, 1h0m

2:30pm

Explore Historic District and Elfreth’s Alley

Stroll the oldest continuously inhabited residential street in America and surrounding cobblestone streets.
Free, 1h30m

4:30pm

Return Amtrak to NYC

Board return train to New York City for evening arrival.
USD60, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Carmine’s NYC

Family-style Italian dining in Times Square, perfect for relaxing after day trips. Open till 11pm.
USD50, 1h30m
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Day 10: Relax & Shopping

New York City, USA on July 9, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Clinton St. Baking Company

Known for pancakes and freshly made comfort breakfast dishes. Opens at 8am.
USD25, 1h0m

10:00am

Shopping in SoHo

Experience trendy boutiques, flagship stores, and art galleries in SoHo neighborhood.
Varies, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Jack’s Wife Freda

Charming Mediterranean-American bistro featuring fresh and flavorful dishes. Open 11:30am-11pm.
USD30, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit New York Public Library & Bryant Park

Tour the grand beaux-arts library and relax in the adjacent park. Library open 10am-6pm.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Dinner at Keens Steakhouse

Historic steakhouse known for prime cuts and an impressive collection of pipes. Open from 4pm.
USD75, 2h0m
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Day 11: Travel to Long Island

Long Island, USA on July 10, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at NYC Hotel

Fuel up with breakfast before heading to Long Island for the day's activities.
USD20, 0h30m

8:30am

Drive to Long Island

Travel east on Long Island to the North Fork region, approximately 2-hour drive.
USD20 fuel, 2h0m

10:30am

Visit Long Island Wineries

Tour and tasting at wineries like Macari Vineyards or Bedell Cellars. Most open 11am-5pm on weekdays.
USD20 tasting fee, 3h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Love Lane Kitchen

Popular casual spot on the North Fork with farm-fresh San Francisco-inspired menu. Open 11am-9pm.
USD35, 1h0m

3:00pm

Explore Greenport Village

Downtown area with shops, galleries, and waterfront views, ideal for relaxing and strolling.
Free, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Noah’s

Upscale American seafood restaurant known for local catches and elegant atmosphere. Open till 9pm.
USD60, 1h30m
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Day 12: North Fork Vineyards

Long Island, USA on July 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at local cafe in Greenport

Casual breakfast to start your day fresh dining on croissants and coffee.
USD15, 1h0m

9:30am

Vineyard Hopping - Additional North Fork Wineries

Visit vineyards like Lenz Winery and Palmer Vineyards, experiencing the distinct terroir of Long Island. Open 11am-5pm.
USD20 tasting fee, 4h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at The Frisky Oyster

Seasonal seafood and cocktails in a cozy setting in Greenport. Open from 11:30am.
USD40, 1h0m

3:30pm

Walk at Mashomack Preserve

Explore this nature preserve known for birdwatching and scenic trails. Open daylight hours.
Free, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at American Beech

Modern American cuisine emphasizing local ingredients. Open for dinner at 5pm.
USD50, 1h30m
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Day 13: Return to NYC

New York City, USA on July 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel in Long Island

Enjoy a relaxed morning breakfast at your accommodation.
USD20, 1h0m

9:30am

Drive back to New York City

Return to the city with options to rest or prepare for afternoon plans. 2-hour drive.
USD20 fuel cost, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Eataly NYC Flatiron

Large Italian market and restaurant complex offering multiple dining options in a vibrant environment. Open 11am to 11pm.
USD35, 1h0m

2:00pm

Relax or neighborhood stroll in Flatiron District

Explore local shops, historic architecture, and Madison Square Park.
Free, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at ABC Kitchen

Farm-to-table dining in a chic setting, focusing on sustainability. Open from 5:30pm.
USD70, 2h0m
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Day 14: More NYC Discoveries

New York City, USA on July 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Dominque Ansel Bakery

Savor creative pastries including the famous Cronut. Opens at 8am.
USD20, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit The Cloisters

Specialized branch of the Met focusing on medieval art and architecture, set in Fort Tryon Park. Opens at 10am.
USD25, 2h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Inwood’s local diner

Casual dining for comfort food after museum visit.
USD20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore Fort Tryon Park

Walk the paths of this historic park with Hudson River views and gardens. Open 6am to 1am.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Visit the New York Botanical Garden

Explore the vast gardens and conservatory, open 10am to 6pm.
USD30, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Bronx Beer Hall

Relax with local brews and casual fare in a lively setting.
USD40, 1h30m
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Day 15: Historic Staten Island

Staten Island, USA on July 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Staten Island Ferry Terminal Cafe

Quick breakfast before boarding the free Staten Island ferry. Opens at 7am.
USD12, 0h45m

9:00am

Staten Island Ferry Ride

Enjoy a 25-minute free ferry ride with unmatched views of the Statue of Liberty and Lower Manhattan.
Free, 0h30m

9:45am

Visit Staten Island Greenbelt

Explore hiking trails, woodlands and wetlands in one of NYC’s largest natural preserves. Open dawn to dusk.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Enoteca Maria

Unique dining experience featuring grandmas from different cultures cooking traditional recipes. Open noon-9pm.
USD30, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Staten Island Museum

Explore natural science, art, and history exhibits. Open 12pm to 5pm.
USD6, 1h0m

3:00pm

Walk around Historic Richmond Town

Living history village portraying past centuries in Staten Island. Grounds open 10am-5pm.
USD15, 1h30m

5:00pm

Return Ferry to Manhattan

Ferry runs regularly till late evening for quick return to the city.
Free, 0h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Quality Italian

Lively Italian-American restaurant featuring famous chicken parm. Open from 5pm.
USD50, 2h0m
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Day 16: New Jersey Seashore

Jersey Shore, USA on July 15, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at NYC Hotel

Grab a light breakfast as you prepare for beach day on the Jersey Shore.
USD15, 0h30m

7:45am

Drive to Asbury Park, NJ

Head south for approximately 1.5-hour drive to this vibrant beach town with live music and boardwalk.
USD20 fuel, 1h30m

9:30am

Beach Time and Boardwalk Walk at Asbury Park

Enjoy the sun, sand, and iconic boardwalk with shops and eateries. Beach open sunrise to sunset.
Beach access fee USD5, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Langosta Lounge

Upscale seafood with oceanfront views on the boardwalk. Open 11am-10pm.
USD40, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Silverball Museum

Interactive museum featuring vintage pinball machines. Open 12pm-10pm.
USD15, 1h30m

4:00pm

Drive to Historic Cape May

Continue to Cape May, NJ, about 1h45m drive, known for its Victorian architecture and beaches.
USD25 fuel, 1h45m

6:00pm

Dinner at The Ebbitt Room

Refined dining emphasizing local ingredients with a coastal ambiance. Open till 9pm.
USD60, 1h30m
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Day 17: Cape May Relaxation

Cape May, USA on July 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Uncle Bill’s Pancake House

Delicious pancakes and classic breakfast fare in Cape May. Opens at 7am.
USD20, 1h0m

9:30am

Explore Cape May Beaches

Spend a leisurely morning at one of the clean, family-friendly beaches. Open sunrise to sunset.
Beach access USD8, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Blue Pig Tavern

Rustic American tavern inside Congress Hall hotel serving locally inspired dishes. Open 11am-9pm.
USD35, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Cape May Lighthouse

Climb to the top for panoramic views of the Atlantic and Delaware Bay. Open daily 10am to 5pm.
USD10, 1h0m

4:00pm

Tour Historic District and Shopping

Stroll through beautifully preserved Victorian homes and charming shops.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Peter Shields Inn & Restaurant

Cozy upscale restaurant serving creative American cuisine. Dinner from 5pm.
USD60, 1h30m
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Day 18: Return to NYC via Princeton

Princeton & New York City, USA on July 17, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast in Cape May

Light breakfast before checkout and drive.
USD15, 0h45m

8:30am

Drive to Princeton, NJ

Approximately 2.5-hour drive to Princeton to explore picturesque university town.
USD25 fuel, 2h30m

11:15am

Visit Princeton University Campus

Take a guided or self-guided tour of this Ivy League campus with its historic architecture and art museum. Opens 10am-5pm.
Free, 2h0m

1:15pm

Lunch at Small World Coffee

Popular café for sandwiches and coffee in downtown Princeton.
USD20, 1h0m

2:30pm

Drive back to NYC

Return to New York City (approx. 1.5 hr).
USD15 fuel, 1h30m

4:00pm

Rest or local NYC neighborhood visit

Free time for personal exploration or rest.
Free, Evening

7:00pm

Dinner at Le Bernardin

Celebrate your trip with fine dining at this three Michelin-starred seafood restaurant. Reservation essential.
USD150+, 2h0m
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Day 19: Explore Queens

Queens, New York, USA on July 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Queens Comfort

Eclectic comfort food with inventive breakfast options in Astoria. Opens at 8am.
USD20, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit MoMA PS1

Contemporary art institution located in Long Island City, open 12pm-6pm but viewing exterior and neighborhood before opening is scenic.
USD15, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at The Arepa Lady

Famous spot for authentic Colombian arepas in Jackson Heights. Open 11am-9pm.
USD15, 1h0m

1:30pm

Flushing Meadows Corona Park

Visit iconic park with the Unisphere, gardens, and Queens Museum. Park open 6am to 9pm, museum 12pm-6pm.
USD8 museum, 2h0m

5:00pm

Dinner at M. Wells Steakhouse

Eclectic steakhouse in Long Island City known for comfort food with a twist. Open from 5pm.
USD60, 2h0m
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Day 20: Farewell Day

New York City, USA on July 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Smith

Popular all-day American bistro favored for brunch and breakfast, open from 8am.
USD25, 1h0m

9:30am

Free Time & Souvenir Shopping

Spend your last day in NYC to revisit favorite spots or buy souvenirs in Times Square or Chelsea Market.
Varies, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Chelsea Market

Explore multiple dining vendors within the vibrant food hall, perfect for culinary variety.
USD25, 1h0m

2:30pm

Walk the Hudson River Park

Enjoy relaxing riverside views and scenic sunset strolls. Park open 6am to 1am.
Free, 2h0m

6:30pm

Farewell Dinner at Gramercy Tavern

Renowned farm-to-table American cuisine offering a memorable final evening. Open from 5:30pm, reservation required.
USD100, 2h0m
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