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New York City 5-Day Trip Itinerary

New York City Trip - Jul 8, 2027 to Jul 12, 2027

Jul 8 - Jul 12

Embark on a dynamic 5-day family trip to New York City, staying in the heart of Times Square with two adults and a 14-year-old. This moderately-paced adventure blends iconic sightseeing, Broadway shows, and shopping with leisurely explorations of diverse neighborhoods and parks. It's the perfect mix of thrilling city experiences and relaxing moments for everyone.

New York City view
1

Arrival, Times Square & Broadway Lights

Thursday, July 8
1.1
Afternoon
USD 120-180 for 3 people

Arrive in NYC & Hotel Check-in

Arrive at JFK (or Newark/LaGuardia) airport, take a taxi or Airtrain/subway to your hotel in Times Square.

Check in and settle into your room.

Distrikt Hotel New York City, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

From JFK, consider the Airtrain to Jamaica Station, then the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) to Penn Station, followed by a short walk or taxi. Taxis and ride-shares are also readily available.

1.2
17:00 - 18:30

Explore Times Square

Immerse yourselves in the dazzling lights and vibrant energy of Times Square.

Take photos, enjoy the street performers, and soak in the atmosphere.

Be aware of large crowds, especially in the evening. Watch out for costumed characters who may ask for tips if you take photos with them.

1.3
18:30 - 20:00
USD 90-150 for 3 people

Dinner near Theater District

Enjoy a casual dinner in the Theater District, with many options from family-friendly diners to themed restaurants.

1.4
20:00 - 22:30
USD 450-750 for 3 people

Experience a Broadway Show

Enjoy a world-class Broadway performance.

Options include popular musicals like 'The Lion King', 'Wicked', or 'Hamilton'.

Book tickets well in advance, especially for popular shows. Check for rush tickets or lottery options for potential savings. Many shows have evening performances starting around 7 PM or 8 PM.

2

Central Park & Midtown Marvels

Friday, July 9
2.1
09:30 - 10:30
USD 132 for 3 people

Central Park Pedicab Tour

Discover the magic of Central Park on a private pedicab tour, seeing top highlights with a friendly local guide.

A comfortable way to explore the park.

Pedicabs are an efficient way to cover more ground in the park. Your guide can provide insights into its history and famous movie spots.

2.2
10:30 - 12:00

Stroll & Relax in Central Park

After your pedicab tour, take some time to wander through Central Park, perhaps visit Strawberry Fields, Bethesda Terrace, or simply enjoy the greenery.

2.3
12:30 - 13:30
USD 75-120 for 3 people

Lunch in Midtown

Grab lunch in Midtown, with options ranging from quick bites to more formal dining, suitable for refueling after your park visit.

2.4
14:00 - 15:30
USD 156 for 3 people

Secrets of Grand Central Tour

Discover the hidden tennis court, backwards ceiling, and surprising history of Grand Central Terminal on a private walking tour.

A fascinating way to explore one of NYC's most beautiful and historic buildings.

2.5
15:30 - 17:00

5th Avenue & St. Patrick's Cathedral

Stroll down Fifth Avenue for some window shopping, admire the architecture, and visit the iconic St. Patrick's Cathedral.

2.6
17:30 - 19:00
USD 120-150 for 3 people

Top of the Rock Observation Deck

Enjoy panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, including the Empire State Building and Central Park, from the Top of the Rock.

Pre-book tickets online to secure your preferred time slot, especially for sunset views. Prices vary by time of day.

3

Downtown History & Chinatown Flavors

Saturday, July 10
3.1
09:30 - 11:30
USD 120-150 for 3 people

One World Observatory

Visit One World Observatory for breathtaking views from the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, offering a unique perspective on NYC.

Book tickets online in advance to save time. It's an emotional and inspiring experience.

3.2
11:30 - 12:30

9/11 Memorial & Museum (Exterior)

Reflect at the 9/11 Memorial pools, a poignant tribute to those lost.

Optionally, visit the museum (requires additional time and tickets).

The memorial is free to visit. The museum requires timed tickets.

3.3
13:00 - 16:00
USD 297 for 3 people

#1 Rated Chinatown Food & History Tour

Embark on a walking tour with Foods of NY Tours, exploring Chinatown's history, landmarks, and hidden gems with 3 sit-down indoor tastings included.

Come hungry! This tour offers a deep dive into the diverse culinary and cultural landscape of Chinatown.

3.4
16:30 - 18:00

Walk the Brooklyn Bridge

Walk across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, enjoying stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, Brooklyn, and the Statue of Liberty.

Start from the Manhattan side (near City Hall) and walk towards Brooklyn for the best views. Wear comfortable shoes!

3.5
18:30 - 20:00
USD 100-180 for 3 people

Dinner in DUMBO/Brooklyn Heights

Enjoy dinner in the vibrant DUMBO or Brooklyn Heights neighborhoods, known for their scenic waterfront dining and charming streets.

4

Downtown History & Brooklyn Views

Sunday, July 11
4.1
09:30 - 12:30
USD 159 for 3 people

Hamilton & Washington Walking Tour

Embark on a captivating journey through history, exploring sites significant to Alexander Hamilton and George Washington in Lower Manhattan.

Your expert guide will share fascinating stories and insights into Revolutionary-era New York.

Wear comfortable shoes for walking. This tour offers a unique perspective on American history.

4.2
12:45 - 13:45

Lunch in Financial District

Enjoy a casual lunch near the Financial District, perhaps exploring options around Wall Street or the Seaport District after your history tour.

Many delis, cafes, and restaurants are available in this bustling area.

4.3
14:30 - 17:30
USD 159 for 3 people

Best of Brooklyn Walking Tour

Step back in time and experience the Brooklyn Bridge, DUMBO, Brooklyn Bridge Park, and Brooklyn Heights.

Discover the borough’s amazing history, modern reinvention, and stunning views of the Manhattan skyline.

Brooklyn Bridge, DUMBO, Brooklyn Heights

Take the subway from Lower Manhattan (e.g., A/C to High St, or 2/3 to Clark St) to reach the starting point in Brooklyn.

4.4
18:00 - 19:30

Dinner in DUMBO

Savor dinner in the trendy DUMBO neighborhood, known for its scenic waterfront views and diverse culinary scene, before heading back to your hotel.

5

Chinatown & NoLita Exploration

Monday, July 12
5.1
10:00 - 13:00
USD 297 for 3 people

Chinatown Food & History Tour

Join an immersive walking tour of Chinatown, including 3 sit-down indoor tastings.

Explore historic landmarks, hidden side streets, and experience the diverse culture and culinary traditions of this vibrant neighborhood.

Chinatown, New York City

Take the subway downtown (e.g., N/Q/R/W to Canal St, or 6 to Canal St).

5.2
14:00 - 17:00
USD 297 for 3 people

NoLita's Past & Present Food & History Tour

Discover NoLita ('North of Little Italy'), where old-school NY charm meets modern downtown cool.

This tour combines history with iconic eats and stylish boutiques, tucked between SoHo and Little Italy.

This tour is a great way to explore a trendy neighborhood and enjoy more local flavors and history.

5.3
17:00 - 18:30

SoHo / NoLita Shopping

Enjoy some free time for shopping in the stylish boutiques of SoHo and NoLita, known for their unique fashion, art, and home goods.

5.4
19:00 - 20:30

Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a final memorable dinner in New York City.

You could choose a restaurant in SoHo, Greenwich Village, or head back to Midtown for a classic experience.

5.5
20:30 - 22:00

Leisure & Departure Preparation

Spend a relaxed evening back at your hotel, perhaps doing some last-minute souvenir shopping or simply packing and preparing for your departure tomorrow.

This 5-day itinerary for New York City can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.