5 days in New York City: 5 unique New York itineraries for 5 days (by a New Yorker)

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Searching for the perfect 5 days in New York Itinerary? Well, in this post, a true New Yorker provides you with not only 1 NYC itinerary but with 5 NYC itineraries customized for different kinds of travelers.


New York, New York, it’s a hell of a town! If you are planning a trip to New York City for 5 days and wondering how to fulfill your NYC bucket list and/or in what order, you’ve come to the right place. Well, New York is one of those cities that, even if you are from there, a Native New Yorker like me, or have visited before, you will always find something new to do.

With only 5 days in New York, you can see the highlights and a little more but, most likely, you will get the itch to come back again and again, especially because my hometown is the City that never sleeps!

5 Days In New York City - Unique New York Itinerary For 5 Days by A New Yorker
PVaz Photography | Dress by: Cenia NY

Whether you’re looking for excitement, new experiences, or simply family-friendly activities, it can all be found right here. New York City has a reputation of being expensive, but that’s always up to you, the visitor, the places you visit and the activities you choose to do. There are activities for all budgets, including plenty of free things to do in NYC!

I know that Trip-planning can be exhausting and time-consuming so, to make your travels a little easier, I’ve created 5 customized NYC itineraries that are tailored to various needs – 5 days in New York City will get you a good look into what the City has to offer, and why it’s so beloved by visitors and locals alike.

Michael Jackson Mural in New York City by Kobra East Village NY - Olga Maria Dreams in Heels

Where to stay in New York City

Wondering where to stay while visiting New York City? Finding a great deal on a hotel in New York City can be challenging. As a Native New Yorker, I am going to include some suggestions below that I usually recommend to friends and acquaintances who are visiting NYC for the first time or who prefer to stay in a good location close to Manhattan.

Where to Stay in New York City - The Best Neighborhoods in NYC by a Native New Yorker - Olga Maria Dreams in Heels
Credit: The Orange Backpack

For more in-depth information about the best NYC neighborhoods to stay in, and the hotels in those areas, read this complete guide on Where to stay in New York City.

Booking.com

New York Itinerary 5 days

Below you can find 5 Unique NYC Itineraries for every kind of traveler.

5 days in New York Option #1: The Classic

The Classic consists of those quintessential NYC must see tourist attractions. Don’t worry if it’s filled with typical tourist sites; there’s a reason for their popularity!

• Day 1: Midtown
• Day 2: Financial District
• Day 3: Chinatown and Chelsea
• Day 4: Statue of Liberty and Lower Manhattan  
• Day 5: Museum Mile

Day 1: Midtown NYC

Midtown is where all the action is, and where you’ll find the majority of popular tourist attractions. If this is your first time visiting New York City, then the classic itinerary is ideal.

Midtown means Times Square, Bryant Park, Fifth Avenue, Grand Central Terminal and you can even include the start of Central Park in the equation. There’s also Rockefeller Center, Top of the Rock, and the Empire State Building. If you are only planning to visit a few of those, you can certainly get skip-the-line tickets for most attractions.

Pro Tip: To save money in activities and attractions in NYC, it is best to purchase a pass especially if you’re in New York for 5 days or more. I would suggest The New York Pass based on the length of your visit. On the other hand, if you are using these New York City 5 day itineraries only as a reference but really visiting for 24 or 48 hours, then I would recommend getting the New York CityPASS, since you can use this pass to visit six top attractions, including the Top of the Rock, the Statue of Liberty and the 9/11 Museum.

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Central Park

Note: For Central Park, I recommend that you pre-select what you’re most interested in seeing, so here are some ideas on some of the best things to do in Central Park NYC.

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Broadway is also located in Midtown and offers a large array of musicals and theater, most with matinee showings for a younger audience members or if you’re looking for a more affordable option.

Pro Tip: To save money on Broadway tickets, I would suggest buying your tickets on the website TodayTix.

While in the area, don’t miss out on trying out the best cheesecake in New York City, Junior’s Cheesecake. It’s delightful and my forever obsession.

Juniors-cheesecake-NYC-Dreamsinheels

You should also visit the newest sensations: The Vessel NYC and The Edge NYC (the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere with 360-degree views of New York City).

  • For visiting The Vessel is best to pre-purchase a Flex Pass to guarantee your 1-time entry at any time of the day. It is around $10.

Tip: While at the Vessel don’t miss out on stopping by the Mercado Little Spain for tapas and wine.

The Vessel NYC - Olga Maria Dreamsinheels
  • For visiting The Edge NYC, I would recommend pre-purchasing a skip the line ticket, which not only gives you access to the Edge Observation Deck + to the Edge multimedia experience, but also includes a digital souvenir photo, views from the indoor sky deck and champagne bar on Level 100, access to the outdoor sky deck platform, with angled glass walls, and access to the Glass Floor, Skyline Steps, and its Eastern Point.

These are all quintessential New York City sights, which you don’t want to miss out on, especially if this is your first visit.

If you want more details on these places, check out my one day in New York City itinerary that can be used almost like a walking tour guide and even has a free map included.

READ THIS:


Day 2: Financial District NYC

The Financial District has plenty of sights to fill your entire day in the city, such as the One World Trade Center Observatory, 9/11 Museum and Memorial, as well as the famous Bull statue, the New York City Stock Exchange and South Street Seaport.

One World trade center new york city - Freedom Tower - Olga Maria Dreamsinheels

Note: For the 9/11 Museum and Memorial, I would suggest considering doing this tour.

911 Memorial & Museum - NYC Travel - Dreams in Heels

There’s also the enormous shopping center, The Oculus, and a weekly street fair. If you’re looking for souvenirs, you’ll find an abundance of shops here to take little, NYC knick-knacks home with you. It is also a great spot for photo opportunities.

Insider Tip: While in lower Manhattan, you can shop on a budget for designer clothes at discounted prices at Century 21 but, if you are looking for more budget shopping locations in NYC, check out my amazing, complete guide to the best places to shop in NYC on a budget.

The Oculus - NYC Blogger - New York Blog - Olga Maria Dreamsinheels

Day 3: Chinatown and Chelsea

Chinatown takes a bit to explore, and is great for cheap, yummy treats, such as bubble tea, dumplings, or various Asian fruits from the market.

If you want to try something you can hate, try a Durian fruit, or stay with the more mainstream offerings, like Dragon Fruit or Lychees.

Recommended: The best places for desserts in Chinatown NYC

Best dessert shops Chinatown NYC - A New Yorker's Picks for Sweet Delights

Close to Chinatown, you can also explore Little Italy, if you would like an Italian meal.

Only a short subway ride away, you’ll find yourself in Chelsea, which makes for a great afternoon stop.

The prices here have skyrocketed, but you should go to walk on The High Line, an awesome aboveground park, and stop in Chelsea Market for lunch or a sweet crepe. The Sugar Factory makes for a fun detour, with their instagrammable steamy drinks.

There is also a great walking tour that covers The Highline and its history, Chelsea Market and the Meat Packing District.

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Pro Tip: While in the Meat Packing District, you should check out the Top of The Standard for drinks. The views are amazing, even from the bathroom! I’ve even had to take a bathroom selfie there, LOL

If you are into nightlife, The Standard has a nightclub called The Boom Boom Room, plus there are also so many lounges and nightclubs all around The Meat Packing District. It’s definitely a fun neighborhood to explore during the day or evening!

The Top of the Standard Hotel NYC Bathroom Selfie

Day 4: Statue of Liberty and lower manhattan

The Statue of Liberty is, of course, typical New York destination. You can’t say you’ve been here without having visited this place at least once! Only a ferry ride away from Battery Park in Lower Manhattan, it provides you with astonishing views of Manhattan’s skyline.

You can choose to just see the Statue by itself, or decide to head on to Ellis Island for a detailed history on immigration.

This is the tour that I personally took, and it includes access to the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty. Keep in mind that, in order to enter the museum and liberty pedestal/crown area, you will have to store your backpack in one of the lockers provided (you’ll need quarters to pay the fee).

You can also sail around the Statue of Liberty on a 60-minute sightseeing cruise that also journeys under the Brooklyn Bridge and over to Ellis Island. You get up close within 100 feet of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

Warning: Be aware of the scams around the Statue of Liberty, where they sell you fake tickets; don’t trust anyone who randomly approaches you. That’s why I personally recommend that you purchase your tickets/tour in advance online. You avoid any confusions and lines.

cruising around Manhattan - Statue of Liberty in New York City - Dreamsinheels

Afterwards, stay in Lower Manhattan and explore Pier 17, Water Street and the Brooklyn Bridge.

If you make it to the other side of the Bridge, you can even explore Brooklyn before heading back! Dumbo and Brooklyn Heights are across the bridge and offer so many amazing photo opportunities. Some of the best views in NYC for free are from the Brooklyn Heights Promenade.

Dumbo NYC

You can also take photos with the Manhattan Bridge in the background from Dumbo. It’s so beautiful there. I’m a local and I never get tired of it.

While there, check out Jane’s Carousel, Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory, and Juliana’s Pizza; all are worthy stops while in Brooklyn.

YOU MIGHT ALSO ENJOY THIS: 27 of The Best Views of NYC for Free

Dumbo Brooklyn NYC - Best views in NYC - Brooklyn Bridge - Manhattan Bridge

Day 5: Museum Mile

Museums provide a vast source of entertainment and intellectual stimulus for New Yorkers, and people from all over the world come to visit some of the most renowned museums in the world, located in the midst of bustling Manhattan.

If you only have one day, your best bet is to explore the so-aptly named “Museum Mile” on 5th Avenue (from approx. 60th Street to 110th Street), which includes The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Guggenheim Museum, and The Museum of the City of New York, among many others. Pick your favorites and enjoy yourself!

TIP: Many museums have rotating exhibitions so go on there websites for up-to-date information to make informed decisions.

If you are an architecture fan, you must take this NYC Architecture Cruise.

NYC Itinerary 5 Days Option #2: Live like a local

The Live like a Local is especially designed to take you off the beaten path and to help you explore the gems most locals frequent, usually with their own guests in town.

• Day 1: Bleecker Street
• Day 2: Williamsburg/Bushwick
• Day 3: Art museums
• Day 4: Central Park/Upper West Side
• Day 5: Bronx’s Little Italy/Botanical Gardens

Day 1: Bleecker Street NYC

If you want to spend a fun day with the locals, then Bleecker Street is a wonderful stretch in the West Village to shop at mom-and-pop shops, many of which are women-owned, have a delicious breakfast at Café Angelique, and drink artisanal coffee.

It used to be a very upscale neighborhood, but has transformed into a community-oriented district, with all the designer retail stores gone and being replaced by local artists and new, innovative entrepreneurs.

If you want to buy something original and help the economy, do it here where it will truly make a difference on a local businesses. A little side tip: One of the best stops for a very affordable cashmere sweater is Naadam.

ANOTHER FAVORITE: The Ultimate Guide to Solo Female Travel in NYC

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Day 2: Williamsburg / Bushwick

Locals like to go off the beaten path, and explore other boroughs. If you want to see more than just what Manhattan has to offer, then take a trip to Brooklyn. Williamsburg is the Soho of Brooklyn, with its art scene and upscale shopping.

You can attend the weekly Smorgasburg here, which takes places indoors during the cold winter months, and visit the East River State Park for sunset-watching and/or a picnic.

Domino Park best free views of NYC

There’s also The Brooklyn Brewery with free, guided tours, and Brooklyn Bowl for bowling, live music and dancing in the evening. For other ideas on free things to do in NYC, click here.

The Nighthawk, a dine-in movie theatre, is a local favorite that gets packed during their midnight and brunch showings.

A short ride away from Williamsburg, you can find the neighborhood of Bushwick, a gentrified neighborhood with cafes, shops, and new restaurants popping up almost weekly. There’s also amazing street art, and you can even take a wonderful street art tour, like this one.

House of Yes is a magnetic night club, coupled with a few through-the-roof restaurants close by, ranging from Cajun cuisine to Seafood or Mexican, so you can’t go wrong whichever you choose.

Bushwick street art unique things to do in Brooklyn New York

Day 3: Art Museums

Art Museums are endless in New York City, but the ones that are lesser known for tourists are oftentimes the best ones to visit, with a higher influx of locals and sometimes more intimate spaces.

The Neue Gallerie on the Upper East Side is one such example. Located on Museum Mile (5th Avenue & 86th Street), it’s tucked into a corner and easily overshadowed by the enormous Met or Guggenheim close by. It hosts Austrian art, with a large focus on the painter Gustav Klimt.

Or consider visiting the Whitney Museum in the Meatpacking District, with the focus being on modern 20th and 21st century art.

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The MET

 Day 4: Central Park / Upper West Side

Locals go to Central Park too! It’s one of those places that never looses its charm, no matter how often you’ve been to the City or how long you have been living here.

If you want to do it as the locals do, then Sheep Meadow invites you to have a picnic, The Mall and Literary Walk invite you for a leisurely stroll, and Wollman Rink invites you to ice-skate during the winter season in NYC.

You can also go for a run or cruise around on a bike; both very in-demand activities for locals. If you make it a point to exit on the Upper West Side, check out some local NYC bookstores, eat a meal at Salumeria Rosi, and shop for some snacks at the big Whole Foods right by Columbus Circle.

If you’re staying for the evening, see a ballet or Opera performance at Lincoln Center.

RECOMENDED: The Best Parks in New York City

LincolnCenterNYC

Day 5: Bronx’s Little Italy / Botanical Garden / Bronx Zoo

Take a trip to the Bronx, which doesn’t require as much commuting as you might think. Little Italy there is a haven of home-cooked Italian food. One of the best places to get a taste of that is Antonio’s Trattoria or Zero Otto Nove.

While being in the neighborhood, pay a visit to the Bronx Botanical Gardens and take their hop-on, hop-off trolley around the park grounds to see different areas, like their Rose Garden. Every Wednesday during the summer and early fall, they also host a small Farmer’s Market with gigantic, fresh chocolate scones from the café called The Red Barn. They’re not always present but if they are, you’re lucky; grab as many as you can carry! You will thank me later!

There is also The Bronx Zoo, which is free on Wednesdays. If you prefer a guided tour, there is an affordable tour that takes you from Manhattan to Visit Little Italy in the Bronx for a 3-hour guided walking tour. This tour includes the history of the borough + you can sample some culinary treats, and see other Bronx treasures including the Bronx Zoo.

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Option #3: 5 Days in New York Itinerary for couples

For couples is definitely created as a way to show you the romantic side of NYC. What a beautiful place to reconnect and fall in love again with your special someone.

• Day 1: Cloisters/Fort Tryon Park/Dinner cruise
• Day 2: Hudson River area/Helicopter ride/Brooklyn
• Day 3: Central Park/Top of the Rock/Jazz
• Day 4: Water sports/Burlesque
• Day 5: Museum of Sex/Astoria

Day 1: Cloisters / Fort Tryon Park / Dinner Cruise

For a romantic first day, head to Fort Tryon Park for a walk, followed by a visit to the adjoining Cloisters, an affiliate of the Metropolitan Museum. Follow it up with lunch at the Cloister Grill, which is located within walking distance. You can easily spend half a day in the area.

Maybe you want to take the rest of the day and explore Washington Heights? Or, for the admission price paid at the Cloisters, you can visit The Met on the same day. So, a good alternative is to hop on a bus (M4, if you’re not in a rush) or subway going downtown and stop there as well.

the-cloisters-new-york-city

Finish the day with a romantic dinner cruise. Bateaux Cruises offers an amazing, 3-hour long journey with great food, drinks, and live music.

There is also a more casual sightseeing cruise for happy hour or if you and your partner are beer lovers, you can sail on the Clipper City, New York’s largest sailing vessel, including unlimited beer while enjoying live music and views of the NYC skyline.

sailing on the Clipper City, New York largest sailing vessel - Olga Maria Dreams in Heels NYC Blog

Lastly, you can choose a 2-hour twilight cruise of New York Harbor and relax with your favorite cocktail as you enjoy the incredible sunset views of Manhattan.

best nyc sunset cruise - new york city blog

Day 2: Hudson River area/Helicopter ride/Brooklyn

This is not the most environmentally friendly activity, but helicopter rides are a beautiful way to see the city from above. Save it for the afternoon. This one is a great option.

You could spend the morning at Hudson River Park, visit the newly created Vessel, and check out Chelsea Piers.

After the helicopter tour, make your way to the Brooklyn Bridge, walk across it, and ride Jane’s Carousel at Brooklyn Bridge Park (no age limit there!). Stay right here for your evening meal, and dine at the River Café. Make early reservations for this one, since it’s in high demand, offering gorgeous views of the East River.

Brooklyn Heights Promenade NYC Travel -best views in nyc - dreams in heels - new yorker blog

Another alternative is to go on a Helicopter Tour over NYC by night. It is a great way to experience the city lights.

New York City From Above - Helicopter Tour in New York City Dreams in Heels NY Blog

Day 3: Central Park / Top of The Rock / Jazz

Central Park has so much charm, you’ll fall in love with it instantly. Bethesda Fountain and it’s Terrace is lovely for picture ops, but the best part for a romantic outing is rowing on the lake, right next to Loeb’s Boathouse restaurant.

You can row for an hour, and have lunch at the Boathouse afterwards, or go to the gourmet store Eataly, in the morning, across from Madison Square Park, before coming and pick up picnic items for a casual lunch on the lawn instead.

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In the afternoon, head to Top of the Rock for gorgeous city views and eat some Mille Crepe cake at Lady M. For your evening entertainment, try some Jazz at Birdland, Jazz at the Lincoln, or consider a Broadway show. There are so many to choose from, so I’m sure you’ll find something right for you.
 

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Day 4: Water sports/Burlesque

For a hint of adventure, try some water sports. I know it sounds strange, since New York City isn’t known for water activities, but here are some of the things you can do: Free Kayaking on the Hudson, surfing at the Rockaways, or rent Jet-Ski’s and cruise along the East River. It’s the perfect combination of city excitement and exploring your natural surroundings.

At night, have a sensual dinner at Duane Park, a burlesque venue with shows that will blow your mind!

Day 5: Museum of Sex/Astoria

This is not a place you would want to take your parents to but the Museum of Sex is perfect for a couple’s outing. It has rotating exhibits, mainly on the history of sex, but also modern exhibits about the progression and changes over the decades.

The museum hosts a bar that serves aphrodisiac drinks to stimulate the senses and even has a sex shop to visit in the end.

If you’re looking for something a little less aggressive afterwards, take a trip to the Museum of Moving Image in Astoria, Queens. On certain days, they host movie screenings and it’s easy to combine that with a meal at one of Astoria’s many restaurants.

museum-of-the-moving-image-queens-new-york-city

Gastroteca for Italian food, The Sugar Freak for some Cajun, or try Ovelia, Agnanti or Taverna Kyklades for Greek cuisine. Astoria is quite known for its popular Greek restaurants. Yummy!

In addition, maybe you want to fill the day with a fun and casual painting class at The Paint Place, with one location being in Astoria. What a creative way to end the day!

Taverna Kyklades Astoria Queens New York City - Olga Maria Dreamsinheels
Taverna Kyklades, Astoria, NY

Option #4: New York City 5 Day Itinerary For food-lovers

For Foodies is the guide that speaks to that most special place deep inside me, my stomach! NYC is filled with so many culinary delights that it was very hard to only select and share a few of my favorites!

• Day 1: Pizza-making class/Ice cream museum
• Day 2: Food walking tour/Greenwich Village
• Day 3: Greek cuisine in Astoria/German on the Upper East Side
• Day 4: Smorgasburg/local Farmer’s Market
• Day 5: Little Italy/Chinatown

Day 1: Pizza-making class/museum of Ice Cream/essex market

There are tons of baking and cooking classes all around the city, but one that will pretty much suit everyone, even people who aren’t much of a cook at home, is a Pizza-making class at the Pizza School, located on the Lower East Side.

It lasts 4 hours and, by the end, you will learn how to make the perfect pie, including making your own dough and tomato sauce.

You can also book a half-day pizza tasting bus tour, such as this one here.

RECOMMENDED: The Best Pizza Spots in Manhattan

While on the Lower East Side, combine it with a trip to the Tenement Museum and dine at Ivan Ramen for a casual setting, or Dirty French, one of the best restaurants in the City, for a more elegant, but also pricier, dining experience.

If you are looking for something more casual, check out the Essex Market which has many vendors with a variety of cuisines from Japanese, to Ukrainian, to Puerto Rican and much more.

Essex Market NYC - Lower East Side - dreamsinheels

Sometime during the day, squeeze in a visit to the Ice Cream Museum in Chelsea, and stroll through Chelsea Market, both very much havens for foodies! Definitely not to be missed!

Tip: If you are a wine lover, you can try to get tickets for the Rose Wine Mansion POP Up experience where you get to learn about the history of rosé while tasting rosés from around the world. it is also a great place for taking cute pictures.

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Day 2: Food walking tour/Greenwich Village

If you want to get a guide of one of the best food neighborhoods, then book a food walking tour through Greenwich Village, which will be as enjoyable taste-wise as it can get.

In the morning, grab breakfast at Café Angelique on Bleecker Street and explore this area on your own for a bit, and make sure to enjoy the musicians performing in Washington Square Park.

Washington Square Park Arc New York City dreamsinheels

At night, check out the Blue Note Jazz club or the Comedy Cellar, depending on what you are in the mood for that night.
 

blue note in New York City with award grammy winner Chris Botti - American Trumpeter

Day 3: Greek cuisine in Astoria/German on the Upper East Side

Start your day on the Upper East Side by visiting the German store, Schaller and Weber, for fresh cuts of meat, rustic bread, and imported German chocolates and pickles, among other delicious items.

Follow it up with lunch next door at Heidelberg Restaurant, or go for an authentic Austrian meal at Sabarsky Café, located inside the art museum called Neue Gallerie. While in the neighborhood, you can follow it up with a visit to Central Park.

In the afternoon, I recommend that you leave Manhattan behind and enjoy some amazing food. Make your way to Astoria which, as I mentioned above, is known for its Greek cuisine. If you want to check out Astoria Park and the views from there, I would suggest to eat at the Greek Restaurant Agnanti. It’s not only delicious but it’s also right by the park. Two experiences at once!

Astoria Park Queens New York City

In Astoria, have a pastry at Biskoti Café or at Martha Country’s Bakery, then shop and drink along Steinway Street, and either eat at King of Souvlaki’s food truck or, for a sit-down experience, reserve a table at Akrotiri Seafood Taverna.

Day 4: Smorgasburg/local Farmer’s Market

On weekends, the best place to be is Smorgasburg, an outdoor food and flea market, in either Prospect Park or Williamsburg. Note: Williamsburg is my personal favorite. It’s always packed, so make sure to get there early.

Browse through the flea market, and reward yourself with a lobster roll, tacos, and/or bowl of mac and cheese. It’s very good, and it won’t disappoint.

Head off to Browling Bowl afterwards or take the ferry to Manhattan. Visit the local Farmer’s Market at Union Square for some free tastings, fresh fruit and produce, as well as cheeses, to snack on.

For coffee, try the Vegan restaurant Peacefood Café within walking distance, and check out Sundaes and Cones for some unique ice cream flavors, such as Green Tea and Watermelon.
 

union square nyc travel

Day 5: Little Italy/Chinatown

Chinatown and Little Italy are close to one another, and should be on your list for exploring one of this City’s best food sectors. Chinatown’s markets and affordable restaurants make it an easy destination for those on a budget.

Try Milkcow for a creamy, Korean-style soft serve, and have a hot drink at Chai Spot, or pick another spot from our list of the best dessert places in Chinatown.

Little Italy has gone through many changes over the years, but some classic restaurants have remained such as Forlini’s, a family-owned establishment that is popular with locals, and dessert at Ferrara’s, a famous NYC Italian bakery since 1892.

At night, see a movie at The Angelika, which is known for showing independent and foreign films not normally found in your average theaters.

little-italy-new york-city-5-day-itinerary

Option #5: 5 days in New York for families

For Families is the best of NYC for creating those amazing, family memories that children and parents alike love to remember!

• Day 1: Museum of Natural History/Central Park
• Day 2: Coney Island
• Day 3: Midtown/Bryant Park
• Day 4: Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum/Chelsea  
• Day 5: Bronx Zoo

Day 1: Museum of Natural History/Central Park

It might not be easy to convince kids to go on a museum trip but the Museum of Natural History is a wonderful place for all ages, and not in the least bit boring. It’s interactive and full of wonders!

American Museum of Natural History - Best museums in New York City

The dinosaur fossils are only a small fraction of what makes this museum so immensely interesting. Combine it with a visit to the Treat House, a rice crispy store only blocks away from the museum.

Then take your treats with you to Central Park, and pay a visit to Belvedere Castle, which makes for a great “play and pretend” backdrop for kids. This combo will be a wonderful experience to remember together.

Day 2: Coney Island

Beaches are hard to come by in New York City, but any kid over the age of 5 would find Coney Island loads of fun, and it’s only a subway ride away, taking you into Brooklyn.

Visit the Brooklyn Aquarium and/or Coney Island, which has an amazing amusement park called Luna for the whole family to enjoy. Spend the rest of the day at the beach, dipping your toes into the water or building sandcastles. You can get here an all-day pass to Luna Park.

You might also like this: The Best Beaches in New York

Coney Island Beach - New York Famous Seaside Amusement Park - dreamsinheels

Day 3: Midtown/Bryant Park

In Midtown, Times Square will be your number one-destination, especially for the M&M store (you can even get M&Ms with your name on it!) and Gulliver’s Gate, a museum with built miniature cities and buildings from all over the world.

It’s a truly remarkable museum! It even has a mini airport where you can see a tiny plane take off.

I would advice against taking a picture with any of the Disney characters on the street. They are pushy and will ask you for tips afterwards!

You could visit Madame Tussauds in the afternoon, catch a movie at the AMC, or see a matinee of Aladdin or The Lion King.

times-square-broadway-show-lion-king

Day 4: Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum/Chelsea

A museum that often goes under the radar is the awesome Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum, located on the Hudson River. See aircraft carriers on the top deck, and visit a space shuttle and submarine. It’s educational, interactive and so much fun! You can get your priority tickets in advance, here.

The Intrepid Museum NYC - Top Museums in New York City - Dreamsinheels

While in the area, check out Chelsea Piers for some sporty, indoor fun such as rock climbing or swimming. Then, walk to The Vessel, a visitor attraction to climb, rewarding you with views of Chelsea, and afterwards you can shop and dine at Hudson Yards.

Day 5: The Bronx Zoo

For your last day, take the train to the Bronx and visit the world-famous Bronx Zoo. On Wednesdays, you can enter for free, so I would highly recommend getting there right before opening time, to avoid waiting in long lines.

You can take an above-ground tram around the park and see elephants, giraffes, and lions. It’s an adventurous day for all and well worth the trip.

For a meal, you will probably eat inside the Zoo, due to the extent of your stay but another alternative is to head to Little Italy in the Bronx and have some pasta bowls and/or thin-crusted pizzas.

Pro Tip: You can take a tour from Manhattan to the Bronx which will combine Little Italy and also the Bronx Zoo.

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Always Be On The Safe Side

New York is one of the world’s most vibrant and exciting cities. Unfortunately, it’s also one of the most congested, with millions living and working close to one another. As a result, accidents are all too common, and if you’re involved in one, you must have a good accident lawyer.

Sadly, many people who visit New York don’t realize this until it’s too late. So if you’re planning a trip to New York, it’s a good idea to research and find a reputable accident lawyer who can help you if you need it.

Having a car accident lawyer’s number on hand can be a massive benefit if you’re involved in an accident in New York. It may not be something you want to think about, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.

It’s time to plan your own special visit to NYC!

I hope that one of these unique NYC 5 day itineraries will speak to you and help you to plan your own 5 days in New York City trip with less stress, anxiety or worries. Keep in mind that you can combine and customized the itineraries to your taste and liking.

New York City is there to be enjoyed and, regardless of which category you prefer, the City will never let you down. Start packing, and enjoy my dear city – It will greet you with open arms!

Tell me below if you find this post helpful/useful. And post any questions you might have about your visit to New York City in the comments. I’ll try to help answer them when possible. Who says that New Yorkers aren’t friendly?!

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5 Unique New York Itineraries for the perfect 5 days in NYC as per a New Yorker
The Ultimate New York City 5 day itinerary as per a New Yorker

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