I love putting together itineraries, and helping clients come up with the perfect plan for exploring a new places. One of my favorite destinations to plan is New York City. Piecing together an itinerary for New York is like a giant puzzle! You want the most bang for your time and buck because, let’s face it, time is money. Most often, shorter trips are requested, which believe it or not are more difficult. I mean, you want to see it all right?! Well, I’m sharing my go-to spots for a first timer’s quick trip to New York.
When planning with clients, I take their list of must sees, make suggestions, and plan out an itinerary according to location and hours of operation for certain spots. You can easily tweak this to suit your own schedule and wish list, but this is my go to for a long weekend in New York City.
Day One
Check In at Hotel
I’m all about Broadway Shows, so I prefer to stay in or near Times Square.
Empire State Building
Though it’s not quite as busy first thing in the morning, it’s the place that screams New York, New York the most, so you’ll want to check it out soon to catapult you into the beauty that is New York City.
Times Square + Broadway Show
Top off your night with a trip to the bright lights of Times Square, and catch one of the many Broadway productions.
Day Two
Statue of Liberty
I recommend heading to Lady Liberty first thing in the morning. Catch the first ferry to Liberty Island, enjoy the beauty of the State of Liberty, & catch views of the Manhattan + New Jersey skylines. You’ll soon see why I recommend going first thing. The island doesn’t take long to be overwhelmed with tourists.
9/11 Memorial & Museum
Once you’re back on dry land, make your way to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. You can enjoy a walk around the beautiful, solemn grounds of the memorial for free, but I recommend checking out the museum as well. If you find yourself in the museum, plan to spend two to three hours here.
Brooklyn Bridge
Since your on this side of the island already, take a stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge. The views and the architecture are stunning. If you have time, head on over to Brooklyn!
Day Three
Rockefeller Center + Top of the Rock
Start your morning early with the Today Show at Rockefeller Center. After the show wraps up, head up to the Top of the Rock to catch incredible views of the city. If it’s Christmas time, admire the beauty of the most famous Christmas tree in America!
St. Patrick’s Cathedral
After Rockefeller, pop across the street to light a candle at St. Patrick’s Cathedral. It is an absolutely stunning Catholic church that anyone can appreciate!
Fifth Avenue
Since you’re already there, walk along the most famous avenue in America. You’ll see Trump Tower, Tiffany’s, the Plaza Hotel, and many more famous spots.
Central Park
Spend the rest of your day enjoying the beautiful Central Park. Visit
http://www.centralparknyc.org/tours/
for free tours.
Day Four
Good Morning America
End your time in New York City in Times Square, and try your hand at getting on TV with Good Morning America. Head there early to get a front row spot, or just hang out in the back for potential celebrity sightings.
Check Out of Hotel + Head Home
That went by fast, didn’t it! I hope you enjoyed New York!
