One Day In New York City: How To See The Best Of The City In No Time

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New York City has got to be one of the most loved cities in the world! With its iconic skyline, bustling streets, and endless energy, it’s a destination that promises a movie-like experience.

From the unforgettable slices of pizza to the crazy views from the Empire State Building, there’s a reason we can’t get enough of this city. Even if you’ve only got one day to explore, trust us, it’s possible to experience the heart of NYC.

The secret? A good night’s sleep before you dive into the fast-paced world of the city that never sleeps, and a solid plan to guide your day. Despite its size, navigating New York City can be surprisingly manageable, thanks to its efficient public transport and walkable streets.

We’ve been there, done that, and we’re excited to share that NYC isn’t just a place you visit—it’s an experience that stays with you, making it one of our all-time US favorite cities.

Map Of Your NYC One Day Itinerary

Breakfast

When you’re in New York City, every minute counts, especially if you’ve got just one day to soak it all in. So, for breakfast, we think it’s best to keep it simple.

Grab something quick from a café or eat at your hotel before you dash out the door. New York mornings have a special kind of energy, and you’ll want to start experiencing it as soon as possible.

From our experience, spending too much time on breakfast means you’ll miss out on what the city has to offer. Unless you’re in NYC for the food, in which case, it makes sense to focus on food! But otherwise, grab a bagel or a coffee, and let’s get going.

How to spend Your Morning in NYC

Take The Free Staten Island Ferry

Trust us on this, taking the Staten Island Ferry is something you’ve got to do. It’s not just a ride; it’s an experience. And guess what? It’s one of the best free NYC things to do!

You’ll get to see the Statue of Liberty up close, and the views of Manhattan from the water are just unreal—like something out of a movie. The ferry takes about 25 minutes one way, so you’ll spend around an hour on this little adventure.

We recommend doing this early in the morning; it’s a peaceful way to start your day, and the views are just spectacular with the morning light.

9/11 Memorial

We strongly believe the 9/11 Memorial should be on your NYC to-do list. It’s a powerful reminder of resilience, loss, and hope. Walking around the reflecting pools, you can’t help but feel moved by the gravity of what happened. And it’s free to visit.

If you’ve got the time and can manage the admission fee, the 9/11 Memorial Museum is right there too. I haven’t been inside myself, but I’ve only heard amazing things.

Check if there are available tickets here ✅

The iconic Brooklyn Bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge is iconic, and walking on it is one of those classic New York moments. Now, we don’t think you should walk all the way across if you’re short on time.

Instead, head over to the corner of Washington Street and Water Street in Dumbo. You’ll get the most incredible photo there, with the bridge framing the Manhattan skyline. It’s a must-see, and honestly, it’s one of those spots that just screams New York City. From our experience, it’s the perfect place to capture your NYC adventure.

Lunch in Greenwich Village

On your way to your afternoon activities, you’ll be passing Greenwich Village so we recommend stopping there for lunch. You’ll be exploring a new neighborhood while getting lunch so it’s a great way to kill two birds with one stone.

This part of the city has a vibe that’s both laid-back and buzzing with energy, making it the perfect midday stop. From cozy cafés to street food stands, there’s something for every taste and budget. We recommend wandering around a bit before choosing a spot; part of the fun is in the discovery.

Whether you’re in the mood for a slice of authentic New York pizza, a bagel loaded with cream cheese, or something more exotic, Greenwich Village won’t disappoint. It’s the kind of place where you can easily find a quick bite that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for convenience.

How to Spend Your Afternoon in NYC

Empire State Building

Visiting the Empire State Building is like stepping into a piece of history that touches the sky. You can go up to the 102nd floor, but the main observation deck on the 86th floor is where most people find themselves awestruck by the panoramic views of New York City.

It’s an iconic experience, with the city sprawling below you in all its bustling glory. We recommend buying tickets in advance to skip the long lines. Standing atop this landmark, you’ll feel the pulse of the city beneath your feet. It’s a must-see, offering a perspective of New York you won’t get anywhere else.

Book your tickets in advance here ✅

Summit One Vanderbilt (Alternative)

For a different kind of high, Summit One Vanderbilt offers an all-glass experience with stunning views that stretch even beyond those of the Empire State Building. Located just west of the main concourse in Grand Central Terminal, this attraction features floors that will make you feel like you’re walking on air.

And here’s a tip: because of the reflective floors, wearing pants, shorts, or tights is a good idea to avoid any fashion faux pas. The reflections and the views from all angles are something out of a dream. It’s a modern take on the classic observation deck experience, blending art, architecture, and awe-inspiring vistas.

It’s a great alternative to the Empire state building and combines an art experience. Both have great views on the city so it’s more of a preference choice here. We don’t recommend planning for both as you won’t have time to appreciate the experience at either then.

Book your tickets in advance here ✅

A Stroll in Central Park

After all that height, grounding yourself with a leisurely afternoon in Central Park might be just what you need. This vast green space is the heart of the city, offering countless ways to relax and enjoy nature.

You can simply walk around, enjoy the scenery, feed the squirrels, or discover iconic spots like Gapstow Bridge and Belvedere Castle. Central Park is a place where the city’s pace slows down a bit, allowing you to catch your breath and soak in the peaceful surroundings.

We recommend taking a moment to just sit and watch the world go by—it’s a serene experience amidst the hustle and bustle of NYC.

How to Spend Your Evening in NYC

After a day of exploring, your evening in New York City can take several exciting turns.

The iconic Times Square

A 15-minute walk from the Empire State Building lands you in the electric heart of NYC—Times Square. It’s a place like no other, with its massive billboards, street performers, and the constant buzz of people.

We recommend just taking it all in. Find a spot to stand and watch the world rush by; it’s a quintessential New York experience. Times Square at night is when it truly comes to life, lighting up the city with its vibrant energy.

Broadway Show (Alternative 1)

Catching a Broadway show is a unique experience and one of the romantic activities you can do in New York City. There’s something for everyone, from timeless classics to modern hits that stir the soul.

We recommend checking out what shows are on during your visit and booking in advance if you can. Sitting in a historic theater, waiting for the curtain to rise is a moment of pure anticipation. The talent, the music, the stories—it’s an unforgettable part of NYC nightlife.

Sunset Cruise (Alternative 2)

For a more serene evening, a sunset cruise around Manhattan offers breathtaking views of the skyline as it lights up in golden hues. The water provides a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle, with landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge taking on a magical quality at dusk.

We recommend bringing a jacket as it can get breezy on the water. It’s a perfect way to end your day, soaking in the beauty of New York from a different perspective.

Check availabile cruises here ✅

If You Only Have A Half Day

If you’re pressed for time and only have a half-day in NYC, focusing on Central Park, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Empire State Building offers a slice of the city’s best. Each landmark offers a unique experience, from the natural beauty of Central Park to the historic grandeur of the Brooklyn Bridge and the breathtaking views from the Empire State Building.

You can also book this half day tour ad not worry about planning anything! ✅

How to get around NYC

Navigating NYC is part of the adventure. Here’s a quick guide:

• Walking: Many of the city’s highlights are closer than you think and perfectly doable on foot. It’s a great way to feel the city’s pulse.
• Taxi: When your feet need a break, yellow cabs are everywhere. They’re especially handy for longer distances or if you’re in a hurry.
• Metro: The subway is an efficient and cost-effective way to get around. It might seem daunting at first, but it’s a quintessential New York experience.
• Car Rental: From our experience, renting a car in NYC isn’t the best idea. Traffic can be a nightmare, and parking is both scarce and expensive. Save yourself the hassle and explore other transport options.

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