Back to Guides
Perfect Weekend in New York City
Explore the Big Apple like a local
📍New York, USA⏱️2 Days
New York City is a place of endless energy and iconic experiences. This weekend itinerary takes you through Manhattan's greatest hits while leaving room for spontaneous discoveries. From world-class museums to diverse neighborhoods, you'll see why NYC is called the greatest city in the world.
📅Saturday
🌅Morning
•
7:00 AM - Brooklyn Bridge Walk 🌉 Start early to beat crowds and catch sunrise views of Manhattan.
•
8:30 AM - Breakfast in DUMBO 🥯 Grab bagels and coffee with views of the bridge.
•
10:00 AM - 9/11 Memorial & Museum 🕊️ A powerful and moving experience (book timed tickets in advance).
☀️Afternoon
•
12:30 PM - Lunch in Tribeca or Soho 🍕 Try New York-style pizza or trendy fusion food.
•
2:00 PM - High Line & Hudson Yards 🌿 Walk this elevated park from Gansevoort to 34th Street, then see The Vessel.
•
4:00 PM - Chelsea Market 🦞 Browse food stalls and unique shops in this former Nabisco factory.
🌆Evening
•
6:00 PM - Times Square 🎭 See the lights and chaos (briefly!), then head to a Broadway show.
•
7:00 PM - Pre-Theater Dinner 🍝 Quick bite in Hell's Kitchen (many restaurants have pre-theater menus).
•
8:00 PM - Broadway Show 🎬 Book tickets in advance or try TodayTix app for discounts.
📅Sunday
🌅Morning
•
8:00 AM - Central Park 🌳 Rent bikes or walk through Bethesda Terrace, Bow Bridge, and Strawberry Fields.
•
10:00 AM - American Museum of Natural History 🦕 See dinosaurs and the famous blue whale (2-3 hours).
•
12:00 PM - Upper West Side Brunch 🥞 Try Zabar's or Barney Greengrass for classic NYC brunch.
☀️Afternoon
•
2:00 PM - Metropolitan Museum of Art 🎨 The MET is HUGE - focus on your interests or do highlights tour.
•
4:30 PM - Fifth Avenue Walk 🛍️ Window shop from the MET down to Rockefeller Center.
•
5:30 PM - Top of the Rock 🏙️ Best views of NYC including the Empire State Building (sunset timing is perfect).
🌆Evening
•
7:30 PM - Dinner in East Village 🌮 Try ramen, Thai, Mexican, or classic Italian - this area has it all.
•
9:00 PM - East Village Nightlife 🍺 Bar hop through this vibrant neighborhood.
•
11:00 PM - Late Night Slice 🍕 End with classic NY pizza at a 24-hour spot.
💡Essential Tips
•
MetroCard - Get 7-day unlimited for $34 if staying longer, otherwise pay-per-ride
•
Walk! - Manhattan is super walkable, you'll see more on foot
•
CityPASS - Good deal if hitting multiple major attractions
•
Reservations - Book popular restaurants and shows well in advance
•
Free Stuff - Many museums have "suggested donation" or free hours
•
Tipping Culture - 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars
•
Safety - NYC is safe, but be aware of your surroundings late at night
•
Grid System - Manhattan's numbered streets make navigation easy
💰Budget Guide
Budget Breakdown: Expect $450-650 per person for the weekend (excluding accommodation). Accommodation: $150-300/night. Food: $80-120/day. Transport: $25/day. Broadway show: $80-200. Attractions: $40-60/day.
Want More Weekend Guides?
Get new city guides delivered to your inbox every week.
Join the community of smart travelers
Weekly destination guides
Money-saving travel hacks
Packing lists & checklists
Exclusive travel deals
Your email is safe. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.