New York City, one of the most iconic cities in the world. From the moment you land to the moment you leave, the city and it's energy, never fails to dissapoint. There's loads of attractions to see and things to do, but even outside of that, every inconspicuous street is filled with an indescribable charm. This is the perfect trip to welcome you to New York - The Concrete Jungle.
You've just landed in JFK Airport in Queens. Today's the day to check into your hotel and get settled in. From the airport you can get the AirTrain, which is an automated transit system connecting all airport terminals to subway links like Jamaica Station and Howard Beach Station for fast travel into Manhattan. Once you're check in you can decide if you want to go out for some quick exploration, to familaries yourself with your surroundings, or just stay in and get some rest. Today’s program depends on your arrival time.
Your airport to land at. Take AirTrain out of the airport to Jamaica Station, and then an E, J, or Z train can take you into Manhattan.
Today is your first day to go out and see some iconic sights. Some people avoid tourist attractions but they are attractions for a reason and you're defintly going to want to spot some familar places at least once. Manhattan is super big but super easy to learn, as it's grided. It may be good to start near the bottom and work your way up to the things you want to see in order - to avoid going back and forth on yourself. Many start in the south, around Chinatown, Little Italy and Soho. You could walk up or catch the Subway towards Bryant Park for lovely panoramic views of the surrounding skyscrapers - including The Empire State and The Chrysler. Times Sqaure and Broadway is close by and Central Park is another 20 min walk north of there - a great place to sit down and eat after all your walking and exploring.
What I found to be the easiest way to navigate was simply walking everywhere and if it was too far to walk then getting the subway. My tip would be to use Google Maps for the Subway as well as walking around, it keeps everything in one place. You just type in your destination and not only will it tell you what station you need to go to, what line you need to take, how long it will take and how many stops. It tells you how to walk to the closest available station for your journey and then where to walk once you get off, to get to your destination. I also suggest it because most people are already familiar with Google Maps and have it automatically downloaded on their phones. Another tip I would give is also double check your journey back. It's easy to make the mistake of just deciding to retrace your steps to go home but the trains that run in the opposite direction, dont always run from the same station. So, it's good to always just double check your journey back. You can tap through gates using contactless payment and you don't need to tap out when you exit. New York is one of the best walking cities in the world so I really would recommend walking as much as possible. That being said it also has one of the best pubic transport connections in the world. I've tried to layout some of the frame work in how to use it but it isn't a one to one guide. So always double check on Google Maps and decide in the moment how you want to get around. This is your journey, enjoy it.
Chinatown is full of character. You can wander these streets without needing much of a plan. They are lined with Chinese restaurants, bakeries and small shops so it's a great place to explore if you're feeling hungry. Even if you're not it's still a great place to just soak up the atmosphere.
Chinatown, Little Italy and Soho are so close together and you can take in the city as you walk between them. Google Maps and the fact that New York Streets are grided, makes it really easy to get around.
Little Italy is a small area with a classic, old-school, New York feel to it. It has some wonderful Italian restaurants, so if you're feeling hungry, this is a great place to go. These colourful streets won't let you down.
SoHo is lined with cobblestone streets and beautiful cast-iron buildings. It has plenty of places to eat but it's also great for shopping. It's filled will cool little art galleries and design stores so there's various things to explore.
B, D, E, F and M Trains all make these stops. An option could be Broadway-Lafayette to 42 St-Bryant Pk (10mins)
Bryant Park is a suprisingly relaxed park considering it's right in the middle of Midtown. Bryant Park is surrounded by skyscrapers and provides great views of the Empire State and Chrysler building. It's also just behind the New York Public Library. It’s a great place to have a coffee, people-watch and catch your breath as you take in this wonderful city.
Time Square is the obvious go to tourist destination but it's for good reason. It is a uniquely overwhelming area. You can grab some iconic pictures anytime of day but don't worry about rushing to get here. You'll probably find yourself just happening to walk through this area by chance multiple times and it feels good to almost discover it by accident.
B and D trains make these stops. An option could be 42 ST-Bryant Pk to 59 St-Columbus Cir (6mins)
Central Park is enormous. There's many iconic filming locations in this park and also the zoo but the best reason to come here is to find some peace and quiet in the city that never sleeps. You can just wander for hours and barely scratch the surface. Bring some snacks and water, find a nice bench and take it all in.
Google Maps back to hotel.
It's very easy to go to New York and spend all your time in Manhattan but New York is made up of five boroughs and they all have their own identities. Taking the Staten Island Ferry to Staten Island and back is a must. You can see the Staue of Liberty from the boat and it's completely free. Brooklyn is a popular spot and in Dumbo you get the iconic view of The Manhattan Bridge. Queens has great food and sporting venues (Citi Field Stadium for soccer and baseball as well as the home of the US Open). And Finally the Bronx is the home of the Yankees and the biggest zoo in New York. Roosevelt Island can be accesed with an afforadable cable car that runs next to Brooklyn bridge and gives you a great, elevated and unique views of manhattan and brooklyn. There's loads more to do in each borough but those are some good first ideas.
Google Maps from hotel.
The Staten Island Ferry is a free service that runs from the southern tip of Manhattan to Staten Island. Aside from being one of New York's many iconic modes of transport it's also a way to spot the Statue of Liberty. Making it a great free alternative.
If you choose to get a train directly from here then the R train from Whitehall St-S Ferry to Jay St-MetroTech (6min) then switch for the F train from Jay St-MetroTech to York Street (1min)
Another incredibly touristy destination is Manhattan Bridge from Washington Street in Dumbo, Brooklyn. It can be very busy as everyone tries to get thier picture but these places shouldn't be avioded for that reason alone, if it's your first time here, it's lovely to see them and it can't be denied, it's a lovely viewpoint
If you choose to travel directly from here then the F train from York St to 34 St-Herald Sq (15mins) then switch for the M Train from 34 St-Herald Sq to Lexington Av-63 St (10mins)
There isn't a crazy amount happening on Roosevelt Island but sometimes the joy is in the journey. You can get there on the relatively cheap, Roosevelt Tram. This cable car only costs $3 and will take you high above the roads and water. It is a very short journey but it's worth it for the unique vantage point over the city.
This is an option. The 7 train runs to Flushing Park.
Flushing Park is a bit of a distance to get to but is another option if you decide you want some more quiet time and a change of scenery from Manhattan. It's also the home to the US Open, so if you're here at the right time of year, it could be pretty lively.
This is an option. The 2 train runs to The Bronz Zoo.
The Bronx Zoo isn't the first Zoo people think of when thinking about New York. It's not as iconic as the one in Central Park and it's further away. That being said, The Bronx Zoo is the largest zoo in NYC and has he largest variety of animals. So, if you make the journey, you'll be rewarded.
Google Maps back to hotel.
I'd highly recommended going to see a quintessential american sport, like Baseball or Basketball, as well as catching a show on Broadway. Broadway is right in the heart of manhattan and no matter what of time of year, there will always be an amazing play or musical to see. As for sports, you could watch a baseball game at the Yankees Stadium (Yankees) in The Bronx or at Citi Field Stadium in Queens (Mets). As for Basketball, The Knicks play in the center of Manhattan at Maddison Square Garden or for a cheaper option, you can go to The Barclays Center in Brooklyn to see the Brooklyn Nets.
Google Maps from hotel.
Midtown is where you can find everything. It's all super expensive but it's fun to walk the streets and grab some photos. Broadway, with all the plays and musicals are around here so you could find yourself walking these streets often.
This is an option. The 4, B and D train run to Yankee Stadium.
Yankee Stadium is home to the Yankees, one of the most iconic Baseball Teams in the world. Up until now, it has also been the home of NYCFC. New York's soccer team. Who will finally be getting a stadium of their own in Queens, July 17th 2027.
This is an option. The 7 train runs to Citi Field Stadium.
If you see yourself more as a mets fan instead of the Yankees then you can find their stadium in Queens. I stumbled upon it by accident, but from the outside I could tell it had a more old school vibe.
1, 2, 3, A, C and E trains all run to Madison Square Garden.
Madison Square Garden is home to the Knicks Basketball Team but is also a popular venue for concerts or huge comedians. New York loves the Knicks, every 3rd person is wearing some sort of memorabila at all times. Them having thier home in the heart of Manhattan keeps that bond strong.
2, 3, 4, 5, B, D, N, Q and R trains all run to The Barclays Center.
If you feel like going against the grain, and quite frankly want a cheaper option, then the Barclays Center may be for you. The home of the Brooklyn Nets Basketball team, offers you another option if you're looking to go to a NBA game.
Google Maps back to hotel.
It's you final full day in the city so I think things should remain pretty loose for what you want to do. That being said, I always find it's nice to end the trip with a beautiful view atop one of Manhattan's many skyscrapers. There's lots to choose from but I'd recommend The Top of the Rock at The Rockafella Plaza. It's not the highest observation deck in New York but it has both indoor and outdoor observation decks, observation decks on multiple levels, amazing views of Central Park and the best view of The Empire State Building. If you want you can pay extra for the photo oppourtunity called The Beam. They lift you up and you can rectreate the iconic photo of the workers who had their lunch on one of the beams while constructing the building. Finally, you can choose if you want your viewing time to be at sunrise, midday, sunset or at night as the perfect send off and goodbye for your trip.
Google Maps from hotel.
There is many observation decks for you to choose from in manhattan. It may not be the tallest observation deck but the reason I pick Top of the Rock is for a few reasons. The history of the building, the iconic picture of the workers sat on the beam comes from here. It has indoors and outdoors observation points, across three different levels. And finally, you get a great straight on view of both Central Park and The Empire State.
Google Maps back to hotel.
The Subway is pretty reliable but you'll still want to aim to get to the airport a couple hours before your flight is due to leave. You can follow the same journey you took back on the subway and then connect with the AirTrain service which will deliver you directly to the exact terminal you need for a safe flight back home.
E, J, Z trains take you to Jamaica Station where you can then get the AirTrain directly into the Airport. Be sure to arrive at the airport at least 2/3 hours before your flight. Have a safe flight home.
I hope this trip leaves you wanting to return again in the near future.
New York City, one of the most iconic cities in the world. From the moment you land to the moment you leave, the city and it's energy, never fails to dissapoint. There's loads of attractions to see and things to do, but even outside of that, every inconspicuous street is filled with an indescribable charm. This is the perfect trip to welcome you to New York - The Concrete Jungle.
You've just landed in JFK Airport in Queens. Today's the day to check into your hotel and get settled in. From the airport you can get the AirTrain, which is an automated transit system connecting all airport terminals to subway links like Jamaica Station and Howard Beach Station for fast travel into Manhattan. Once you're check in you can decide if you want to go out for some quick exploration, to familaries yourself with your surroundings, or just stay in and get some rest. Today’s program depends on your arrival time.
Your airport to land at. Take AirTrain out of the airport to Jamaica Station, and then an E, J, or Z train can take you into Manhattan.
Today is your first day to go out and see some iconic sights. Some people avoid tourist attractions but they are attractions for a reason and you're defintly going to want to spot some familar places at least once. Manhattan is super big but super easy to learn, as it's grided. It may be good to start near the bottom and work your way up to the things you want to see in order - to avoid going back and forth on yourself. Many start in the south, around Chinatown, Little Italy and Soho. You could walk up or catch the Subway towards Bryant Park for lovely panoramic views of the surrounding skyscrapers - including The Empire State and The Chrysler. Times Sqaure and Broadway is close by and Central Park is another 20 min walk north of there - a great place to sit down and eat after all your walking and exploring.
What I found to be the easiest way to navigate was simply walking everywhere and if it was too far to walk then getting the subway. My tip would be to use Google Maps for the Subway as well as walking around, it keeps everything in one place. You just type in your destination and not only will it tell you what station you need to go to, what line you need to take, how long it will take and how many stops. It tells you how to walk to the closest available station for your journey and then where to walk once you get off, to get to your destination. I also suggest it because most people are already familiar with Google Maps and have it automatically downloaded on their phones. Another tip I would give is also double check your journey back. It's easy to make the mistake of just deciding to retrace your steps to go home but the trains that run in the opposite direction, dont always run from the same station. So, it's good to always just double check your journey back. You can tap through gates using contactless payment and you don't need to tap out when you exit. New York is one of the best walking cities in the world so I really would recommend walking as much as possible. That being said it also has one of the best pubic transport connections in the world. I've tried to layout some of the frame work in how to use it but it isn't a one to one guide. So always double check on Google Maps and decide in the moment how you want to get around. This is your journey, enjoy it.
Chinatown is full of character. You can wander these streets without needing much of a plan. They are lined with Chinese restaurants, bakeries and small shops so it's a great place to explore if you're feeling hungry. Even if you're not it's still a great place to just soak up the atmosphere.
Chinatown, Little Italy and Soho are so close together and you can take in the city as you walk between them. Google Maps and the fact that New York Streets are grided, makes it really easy to get around.
Little Italy is a small area with a classic, old-school, New York feel to it. It has some wonderful Italian restaurants, so if you're feeling hungry, this is a great place to go. These colourful streets won't let you down.
SoHo is lined with cobblestone streets and beautiful cast-iron buildings. It has plenty of places to eat but it's also great for shopping. It's filled will cool little art galleries and design stores so there's various things to explore.
B, D, E, F and M Trains all make these stops. An option could be Broadway-Lafayette to 42 St-Bryant Pk (10mins)
Bryant Park is a suprisingly relaxed park considering it's right in the middle of Midtown. Bryant Park is surrounded by skyscrapers and provides great views of the Empire State and Chrysler building. It's also just behind the New York Public Library. It’s a great place to have a coffee, people-watch and catch your breath as you take in this wonderful city.
Time Square is the obvious go to tourist destination but it's for good reason. It is a uniquely overwhelming area. You can grab some iconic pictures anytime of day but don't worry about rushing to get here. You'll probably find yourself just happening to walk through this area by chance multiple times and it feels good to almost discover it by accident.
B and D trains make these stops. An option could be 42 ST-Bryant Pk to 59 St-Columbus Cir (6mins)
Central Park is enormous. There's many iconic filming locations in this park and also the zoo but the best reason to come here is to find some peace and quiet in the city that never sleeps. You can just wander for hours and barely scratch the surface. Bring some snacks and water, find a nice bench and take it all in.
Google Maps back to hotel.
It's very easy to go to New York and spend all your time in Manhattan but New York is made up of five boroughs and they all have their own identities. Taking the Staten Island Ferry to Staten Island and back is a must. You can see the Staue of Liberty from the boat and it's completely free. Brooklyn is a popular spot and in Dumbo you get the iconic view of The Manhattan Bridge. Queens has great food and sporting venues (Citi Field Stadium for soccer and baseball as well as the home of the US Open). And Finally the Bronx is the home of the Yankees and the biggest zoo in New York. Roosevelt Island can be accesed with an afforadable cable car that runs next to Brooklyn bridge and gives you a great, elevated and unique views of manhattan and brooklyn. There's loads more to do in each borough but those are some good first ideas.
Google Maps from hotel.
The Staten Island Ferry is a free service that runs from the southern tip of Manhattan to Staten Island. Aside from being one of New York's many iconic modes of transport it's also a way to spot the Statue of Liberty. Making it a great free alternative.
If you choose to get a train directly from here then the R train from Whitehall St-S Ferry to Jay St-MetroTech (6min) then switch for the F train from Jay St-MetroTech to York Street (1min)
Another incredibly touristy destination is Manhattan Bridge from Washington Street in Dumbo, Brooklyn. It can be very busy as everyone tries to get thier picture but these places shouldn't be avioded for that reason alone, if it's your first time here, it's lovely to see them and it can't be denied, it's a lovely viewpoint
If you choose to travel directly from here then the F train from York St to 34 St-Herald Sq (15mins) then switch for the M Train from 34 St-Herald Sq to Lexington Av-63 St (10mins)
There isn't a crazy amount happening on Roosevelt Island but sometimes the joy is in the journey. You can get there on the relatively cheap, Roosevelt Tram. This cable car only costs $3 and will take you high above the roads and water. It is a very short journey but it's worth it for the unique vantage point over the city.
This is an option. The 7 train runs to Flushing Park.
Flushing Park is a bit of a distance to get to but is another option if you decide you want some more quiet time and a change of scenery from Manhattan. It's also the home to the US Open, so if you're here at the right time of year, it could be pretty lively.
This is an option. The 2 train runs to The Bronz Zoo.
The Bronx Zoo isn't the first Zoo people think of when thinking about New York. It's not as iconic as the one in Central Park and it's further away. That being said, The Bronx Zoo is the largest zoo in NYC and has he largest variety of animals. So, if you make the journey, you'll be rewarded.
Google Maps back to hotel.
I'd highly recommended going to see a quintessential american sport, like Baseball or Basketball, as well as catching a show on Broadway. Broadway is right in the heart of manhattan and no matter what of time of year, there will always be an amazing play or musical to see. As for sports, you could watch a baseball game at the Yankees Stadium (Yankees) in The Bronx or at Citi Field Stadium in Queens (Mets). As for Basketball, The Knicks play in the center of Manhattan at Maddison Square Garden or for a cheaper option, you can go to The Barclays Center in Brooklyn to see the Brooklyn Nets.
Google Maps from hotel.
Midtown is where you can find everything. It's all super expensive but it's fun to walk the streets and grab some photos. Broadway, with all the plays and musicals are around here so you could find yourself walking these streets often.
This is an option. The 4, B and D train run to Yankee Stadium.
Yankee Stadium is home to the Yankees, one of the most iconic Baseball Teams in the world. Up until now, it has also been the home of NYCFC. New York's soccer team. Who will finally be getting a stadium of their own in Queens, July 17th 2027.
This is an option. The 7 train runs to Citi Field Stadium.
If you see yourself more as a mets fan instead of the Yankees then you can find their stadium in Queens. I stumbled upon it by accident, but from the outside I could tell it had a more old school vibe.
1, 2, 3, A, C and E trains all run to Madison Square Garden.
Madison Square Garden is home to the Knicks Basketball Team but is also a popular venue for concerts or huge comedians. New York loves the Knicks, every 3rd person is wearing some sort of memorabila at all times. Them having thier home in the heart of Manhattan keeps that bond strong.
2, 3, 4, 5, B, D, N, Q and R trains all run to The Barclays Center.
If you feel like going against the grain, and quite frankly want a cheaper option, then the Barclays Center may be for you. The home of the Brooklyn Nets Basketball team, offers you another option if you're looking to go to a NBA game.
Google Maps back to hotel.
It's you final full day in the city so I think things should remain pretty loose for what you want to do. That being said, I always find it's nice to end the trip with a beautiful view atop one of Manhattan's many skyscrapers. There's lots to choose from but I'd recommend The Top of the Rock at The Rockafella Plaza. It's not the highest observation deck in New York but it has both indoor and outdoor observation decks, observation decks on multiple levels, amazing views of Central Park and the best view of The Empire State Building. If you want you can pay extra for the photo oppourtunity called The Beam. They lift you up and you can rectreate the iconic photo of the workers who had their lunch on one of the beams while constructing the building. Finally, you can choose if you want your viewing time to be at sunrise, midday, sunset or at night as the perfect send off and goodbye for your trip.
Google Maps from hotel.
There is many observation decks for you to choose from in manhattan. It may not be the tallest observation deck but the reason I pick Top of the Rock is for a few reasons. The history of the building, the iconic picture of the workers sat on the beam comes from here. It has indoors and outdoors observation points, across three different levels. And finally, you get a great straight on view of both Central Park and The Empire State.
Google Maps back to hotel.
The Subway is pretty reliable but you'll still want to aim to get to the airport a couple hours before your flight is due to leave. You can follow the same journey you took back on the subway and then connect with the AirTrain service which will deliver you directly to the exact terminal you need for a safe flight back home.
E, J, Z trains take you to Jamaica Station where you can then get the AirTrain directly into the Airport. Be sure to arrive at the airport at least 2/3 hours before your flight. Have a safe flight home.
I hope this trip leaves you wanting to return again in the near future.
itinerary by Harrison FB
New York City, one of the most iconic cities in the world. From the moment you land to the moment you leave, the city and it's energy, never fails to dissapoint. There's loads of attractions to see and things to do, but even outside of that, every inconspicuous street is filled with an indescribable charm. This is the perfect trip to welcome you to New York - The Concrete Jungle.
You've just landed in JFK Airport in Queens. Today's the day to check into your hotel and get settled in. From the airport you can get the AirTrain, which is an automated transit system connecting all airport terminals to subway links like Jamaica Station and Howard Beach Station for fast travel into Manhattan. Once you're check in you can decide if you want to go out for some quick exploration, to familaries yourself with your surroundings, or just stay in and get some rest. Today’s program depends on your arrival time.
Your airport to land at. Take AirTrain out of the airport to Jamaica Station, and then an E, J, or Z train can take you into Manhattan.
Today is your first day to go out and see some iconic sights. Some people avoid tourist attractions but they are attractions for a reason and you're defintly going to want to spot some familar places at least once. Manhattan is super big but super easy to learn, as it's grided. It may be good to start near the bottom and work your way up to the things you want to see in order - to avoid going back and forth on yourself. Many start in the south, around Chinatown, Little Italy and Soho. You could walk up or catch the Subway towards Bryant Park for lovely panoramic views of the surrounding skyscrapers - including The Empire State and The Chrysler. Times Sqaure and Broadway is close by and Central Park is another 20 min walk north of there - a great place to sit down and eat after all your walking and exploring.
What I found to be the easiest way to navigate was simply walking everywhere and if it was too far to walk then getting the subway. My tip would be to use Google Maps for the Subway as well as walking around, it keeps everything in one place. You just type in your destination and not only will it tell you what station you need to go to, what line you need to take, how long it will take and how many stops. It tells you how to walk to the closest available station for your journey and then where to walk once you get off, to get to your destination. I also suggest it because most people are already familiar with Google Maps and have it automatically downloaded on their phones. Another tip I would give is also double check your journey back. It's easy to make the mistake of just deciding to retrace your steps to go home but the trains that run in the opposite direction, dont always run from the same station. So, it's good to always just double check your journey back. You can tap through gates using contactless payment and you don't need to tap out when you exit. New York is one of the best walking cities in the world so I really would recommend walking as much as possible. That being said it also has one of the best pubic transport connections in the world. I've tried to layout some of the frame work in how to use it but it isn't a one to one guide. So always double check on Google Maps and decide in the moment how you want to get around. This is your journey, enjoy it.
Chinatown is full of character. You can wander these streets without needing much of a plan. They are lined with Chinese restaurants, bakeries and small shops so it's a great place to explore if you're feeling hungry. Even if you're not it's still a great place to just soak up the atmosphere.
Chinatown, Little Italy and Soho are so close together and you can take in the city as you walk between them. Google Maps and the fact that New York Streets are grided, makes it really easy to get around.
Little Italy is a small area with a classic, old-school, New York feel to it. It has some wonderful Italian restaurants, so if you're feeling hungry, this is a great place to go. These colourful streets won't let you down.
SoHo is lined with cobblestone streets and beautiful cast-iron buildings. It has plenty of places to eat but it's also great for shopping. It's filled will cool little art galleries and design stores so there's various things to explore.
B, D, E, F and M Trains all make these stops. An option could be Broadway-Lafayette to 42 St-Bryant Pk (10mins)
Bryant Park is a suprisingly relaxed park considering it's right in the middle of Midtown. Bryant Park is surrounded by skyscrapers and provides great views of the Empire State and Chrysler building. It's also just behind the New York Public Library. It’s a great place to have a coffee, people-watch and catch your breath as you take in this wonderful city.
Time Square is the obvious go to tourist destination but it's for good reason. It is a uniquely overwhelming area. You can grab some iconic pictures anytime of day but don't worry about rushing to get here. You'll probably find yourself just happening to walk through this area by chance multiple times and it feels good to almost discover it by accident.
B and D trains make these stops. An option could be 42 ST-Bryant Pk to 59 St-Columbus Cir (6mins)
Central Park is enormous. There's many iconic filming locations in this park and also the zoo but the best reason to come here is to find some peace and quiet in the city that never sleeps. You can just wander for hours and barely scratch the surface. Bring some snacks and water, find a nice bench and take it all in.
Google Maps back to hotel.
It's very easy to go to New York and spend all your time in Manhattan but New York is made up of five boroughs and they all have their own identities. Taking the Staten Island Ferry to Staten Island and back is a must. You can see the Staue of Liberty from the boat and it's completely free. Brooklyn is a popular spot and in Dumbo you get the iconic view of The Manhattan Bridge. Queens has great food and sporting venues (Citi Field Stadium for soccer and baseball as well as the home of the US Open). And Finally the Bronx is the home of the Yankees and the biggest zoo in New York. Roosevelt Island can be accesed with an afforadable cable car that runs next to Brooklyn bridge and gives you a great, elevated and unique views of manhattan and brooklyn. There's loads more to do in each borough but those are some good first ideas.
Google Maps from hotel.
The Staten Island Ferry is a free service that runs from the southern tip of Manhattan to Staten Island. Aside from being one of New York's many iconic modes of transport it's also a way to spot the Statue of Liberty. Making it a great free alternative.
If you choose to get a train directly from here then the R train from Whitehall St-S Ferry to Jay St-MetroTech (6min) then switch for the F train from Jay St-MetroTech to York Street (1min)
Another incredibly touristy destination is Manhattan Bridge from Washington Street in Dumbo, Brooklyn. It can be very busy as everyone tries to get thier picture but these places shouldn't be avioded for that reason alone, if it's your first time here, it's lovely to see them and it can't be denied, it's a lovely viewpoint
If you choose to travel directly from here then the F train from York St to 34 St-Herald Sq (15mins) then switch for the M Train from 34 St-Herald Sq to Lexington Av-63 St (10mins)
There isn't a crazy amount happening on Roosevelt Island but sometimes the joy is in the journey. You can get there on the relatively cheap, Roosevelt Tram. This cable car only costs $3 and will take you high above the roads and water. It is a very short journey but it's worth it for the unique vantage point over the city.
This is an option. The 7 train runs to Flushing Park.
Flushing Park is a bit of a distance to get to but is another option if you decide you want some more quiet time and a change of scenery from Manhattan. It's also the home to the US Open, so if you're here at the right time of year, it could be pretty lively.
This is an option. The 2 train runs to The Bronz Zoo.
The Bronx Zoo isn't the first Zoo people think of when thinking about New York. It's not as iconic as the one in Central Park and it's further away. That being said, The Bronx Zoo is the largest zoo in NYC and has he largest variety of animals. So, if you make the journey, you'll be rewarded.
Google Maps back to hotel.
I'd highly recommended going to see a quintessential american sport, like Baseball or Basketball, as well as catching a show on Broadway. Broadway is right in the heart of manhattan and no matter what of time of year, there will always be an amazing play or musical to see. As for sports, you could watch a baseball game at the Yankees Stadium (Yankees) in The Bronx or at Citi Field Stadium in Queens (Mets). As for Basketball, The Knicks play in the center of Manhattan at Maddison Square Garden or for a cheaper option, you can go to The Barclays Center in Brooklyn to see the Brooklyn Nets.
Google Maps from hotel.
Midtown is where you can find everything. It's all super expensive but it's fun to walk the streets and grab some photos. Broadway, with all the plays and musicals are around here so you could find yourself walking these streets often.
This is an option. The 4, B and D train run to Yankee Stadium.
Yankee Stadium is home to the Yankees, one of the most iconic Baseball Teams in the world. Up until now, it has also been the home of NYCFC. New York's soccer team. Who will finally be getting a stadium of their own in Queens, July 17th 2027.
This is an option. The 7 train runs to Citi Field Stadium.
If you see yourself more as a mets fan instead of the Yankees then you can find their stadium in Queens. I stumbled upon it by accident, but from the outside I could tell it had a more old school vibe.
1, 2, 3, A, C and E trains all run to Madison Square Garden.
Madison Square Garden is home to the Knicks Basketball Team but is also a popular venue for concerts or huge comedians. New York loves the Knicks, every 3rd person is wearing some sort of memorabila at all times. Them having thier home in the heart of Manhattan keeps that bond strong.
2, 3, 4, 5, B, D, N, Q and R trains all run to The Barclays Center.
If you feel like going against the grain, and quite frankly want a cheaper option, then the Barclays Center may be for you. The home of the Brooklyn Nets Basketball team, offers you another option if you're looking to go to a NBA game.
Google Maps back to hotel.
It's you final full day in the city so I think things should remain pretty loose for what you want to do. That being said, I always find it's nice to end the trip with a beautiful view atop one of Manhattan's many skyscrapers. There's lots to choose from but I'd recommend The Top of the Rock at The Rockafella Plaza. It's not the highest observation deck in New York but it has both indoor and outdoor observation decks, observation decks on multiple levels, amazing views of Central Park and the best view of The Empire State Building. If you want you can pay extra for the photo oppourtunity called The Beam. They lift you up and you can rectreate the iconic photo of the workers who had their lunch on one of the beams while constructing the building. Finally, you can choose if you want your viewing time to be at sunrise, midday, sunset or at night as the perfect send off and goodbye for your trip.
Google Maps from hotel.
There is many observation decks for you to choose from in manhattan. It may not be the tallest observation deck but the reason I pick Top of the Rock is for a few reasons. The history of the building, the iconic picture of the workers sat on the beam comes from here. It has indoors and outdoors observation points, across three different levels. And finally, you get a great straight on view of both Central Park and The Empire State.
Google Maps back to hotel.
The Subway is pretty reliable but you'll still want to aim to get to the airport a couple hours before your flight is due to leave. You can follow the same journey you took back on the subway and then connect with the AirTrain service which will deliver you directly to the exact terminal you need for a safe flight back home.
E, J, Z trains take you to Jamaica Station where you can then get the AirTrain directly into the Airport. Be sure to arrive at the airport at least 2/3 hours before your flight. Have a safe flight home.
I hope this trip leaves you wanting to return again in the near future.
New York City, one of the most iconic cities in the world. From the moment you land to the moment you leave, the city and it's energy, never fails to dissapoint. There's loads of attractions to see and things to do, but even outside of that, every inconspicuous street is filled with an indescribable charm. This is the perfect trip to welcome you to New York - The Concrete Jungle.
You've just landed in JFK Airport in Queens. Today's the day to check into your hotel and get settled in. From the airport you can get the AirTrain, which is an automated transit system connecting all airport terminals to subway links like Jamaica Station and Howard Beach Station for fast travel into Manhattan. Once you're check in you can decide if you want to go out for some quick exploration, to familaries yourself with your surroundings, or just stay in and get some rest. Today’s program depends on your arrival time.
Your airport to land at. Take AirTrain out of the airport to Jamaica Station, and then an E, J, or Z train can take you into Manhattan.
Today is your first day to go out and see some iconic sights. Some people avoid tourist attractions but they are attractions for a reason and you're defintly going to want to spot some familar places at least once. Manhattan is super big but super easy to learn, as it's grided. It may be good to start near the bottom and work your way up to the things you want to see in order - to avoid going back and forth on yourself. Many start in the south, around Chinatown, Little Italy and Soho. You could walk up or catch the Subway towards Bryant Park for lovely panoramic views of the surrounding skyscrapers - including The Empire State and The Chrysler. Times Sqaure and Broadway is close by and Central Park is another 20 min walk north of there - a great place to sit down and eat after all your walking and exploring.
What I found to be the easiest way to navigate was simply walking everywhere and if it was too far to walk then getting the subway. My tip would be to use Google Maps for the Subway as well as walking around, it keeps everything in one place. You just type in your destination and not only will it tell you what station you need to go to, what line you need to take, how long it will take and how many stops. It tells you how to walk to the closest available station for your journey and then where to walk once you get off, to get to your destination. I also suggest it because most people are already familiar with Google Maps and have it automatically downloaded on their phones. Another tip I would give is also double check your journey back. It's easy to make the mistake of just deciding to retrace your steps to go home but the trains that run in the opposite direction, dont always run from the same station. So, it's good to always just double check your journey back. You can tap through gates using contactless payment and you don't need to tap out when you exit. New York is one of the best walking cities in the world so I really would recommend walking as much as possible. That being said it also has one of the best pubic transport connections in the world. I've tried to layout some of the frame work in how to use it but it isn't a one to one guide. So always double check on Google Maps and decide in the moment how you want to get around. This is your journey, enjoy it.
Chinatown is full of character. You can wander these streets without needing much of a plan. They are lined with Chinese restaurants, bakeries and small shops so it's a great place to explore if you're feeling hungry. Even if you're not it's still a great place to just soak up the atmosphere.
Chinatown, Little Italy and Soho are so close together and you can take in the city as you walk between them. Google Maps and the fact that New York Streets are grided, makes it really easy to get around.
Little Italy is a small area with a classic, old-school, New York feel to it. It has some wonderful Italian restaurants, so if you're feeling hungry, this is a great place to go. These colourful streets won't let you down.
SoHo is lined with cobblestone streets and beautiful cast-iron buildings. It has plenty of places to eat but it's also great for shopping. It's filled will cool little art galleries and design stores so there's various things to explore.
B, D, E, F and M Trains all make these stops. An option could be Broadway-Lafayette to 42 St-Bryant Pk (10mins)
Bryant Park is a suprisingly relaxed park considering it's right in the middle of Midtown. Bryant Park is surrounded by skyscrapers and provides great views of the Empire State and Chrysler building. It's also just behind the New York Public Library. It’s a great place to have a coffee, people-watch and catch your breath as you take in this wonderful city.
Time Square is the obvious go to tourist destination but it's for good reason. It is a uniquely overwhelming area. You can grab some iconic pictures anytime of day but don't worry about rushing to get here. You'll probably find yourself just happening to walk through this area by chance multiple times and it feels good to almost discover it by accident.
B and D trains make these stops. An option could be 42 ST-Bryant Pk to 59 St-Columbus Cir (6mins)
Central Park is enormous. There's many iconic filming locations in this park and also the zoo but the best reason to come here is to find some peace and quiet in the city that never sleeps. You can just wander for hours and barely scratch the surface. Bring some snacks and water, find a nice bench and take it all in.
Google Maps back to hotel.
It's very easy to go to New York and spend all your time in Manhattan but New York is made up of five boroughs and they all have their own identities. Taking the Staten Island Ferry to Staten Island and back is a must. You can see the Staue of Liberty from the boat and it's completely free. Brooklyn is a popular spot and in Dumbo you get the iconic view of The Manhattan Bridge. Queens has great food and sporting venues (Citi Field Stadium for soccer and baseball as well as the home of the US Open). And Finally the Bronx is the home of the Yankees and the biggest zoo in New York. Roosevelt Island can be accesed with an afforadable cable car that runs next to Brooklyn bridge and gives you a great, elevated and unique views of manhattan and brooklyn. There's loads more to do in each borough but those are some good first ideas.
Google Maps from hotel.
The Staten Island Ferry is a free service that runs from the southern tip of Manhattan to Staten Island. Aside from being one of New York's many iconic modes of transport it's also a way to spot the Statue of Liberty. Making it a great free alternative.
If you choose to get a train directly from here then the R train from Whitehall St-S Ferry to Jay St-MetroTech (6min) then switch for the F train from Jay St-MetroTech to York Street (1min)
Another incredibly touristy destination is Manhattan Bridge from Washington Street in Dumbo, Brooklyn. It can be very busy as everyone tries to get thier picture but these places shouldn't be avioded for that reason alone, if it's your first time here, it's lovely to see them and it can't be denied, it's a lovely viewpoint
If you choose to travel directly from here then the F train from York St to 34 St-Herald Sq (15mins) then switch for the M Train from 34 St-Herald Sq to Lexington Av-63 St (10mins)
There isn't a crazy amount happening on Roosevelt Island but sometimes the joy is in the journey. You can get there on the relatively cheap, Roosevelt Tram. This cable car only costs $3 and will take you high above the roads and water. It is a very short journey but it's worth it for the unique vantage point over the city.
This is an option. The 7 train runs to Flushing Park.
Flushing Park is a bit of a distance to get to but is another option if you decide you want some more quiet time and a change of scenery from Manhattan. It's also the home to the US Open, so if you're here at the right time of year, it could be pretty lively.
This is an option. The 2 train runs to The Bronz Zoo.
The Bronx Zoo isn't the first Zoo people think of when thinking about New York. It's not as iconic as the one in Central Park and it's further away. That being said, The Bronx Zoo is the largest zoo in NYC and has he largest variety of animals. So, if you make the journey, you'll be rewarded.
Google Maps back to hotel.
I'd highly recommended going to see a quintessential american sport, like Baseball or Basketball, as well as catching a show on Broadway. Broadway is right in the heart of manhattan and no matter what of time of year, there will always be an amazing play or musical to see. As for sports, you could watch a baseball game at the Yankees Stadium (Yankees) in The Bronx or at Citi Field Stadium in Queens (Mets). As for Basketball, The Knicks play in the center of Manhattan at Maddison Square Garden or for a cheaper option, you can go to The Barclays Center in Brooklyn to see the Brooklyn Nets.
Google Maps from hotel.
Midtown is where you can find everything. It's all super expensive but it's fun to walk the streets and grab some photos. Broadway, with all the plays and musicals are around here so you could find yourself walking these streets often.
This is an option. The 4, B and D train run to Yankee Stadium.
Yankee Stadium is home to the Yankees, one of the most iconic Baseball Teams in the world. Up until now, it has also been the home of NYCFC. New York's soccer team. Who will finally be getting a stadium of their own in Queens, July 17th 2027.
This is an option. The 7 train runs to Citi Field Stadium.
If you see yourself more as a mets fan instead of the Yankees then you can find their stadium in Queens. I stumbled upon it by accident, but from the outside I could tell it had a more old school vibe.
1, 2, 3, A, C and E trains all run to Madison Square Garden.
Madison Square Garden is home to the Knicks Basketball Team but is also a popular venue for concerts or huge comedians. New York loves the Knicks, every 3rd person is wearing some sort of memorabila at all times. Them having thier home in the heart of Manhattan keeps that bond strong.
2, 3, 4, 5, B, D, N, Q and R trains all run to The Barclays Center.
If you feel like going against the grain, and quite frankly want a cheaper option, then the Barclays Center may be for you. The home of the Brooklyn Nets Basketball team, offers you another option if you're looking to go to a NBA game.
Google Maps back to hotel.
It's you final full day in the city so I think things should remain pretty loose for what you want to do. That being said, I always find it's nice to end the trip with a beautiful view atop one of Manhattan's many skyscrapers. There's lots to choose from but I'd recommend The Top of the Rock at The Rockafella Plaza. It's not the highest observation deck in New York but it has both indoor and outdoor observation decks, observation decks on multiple levels, amazing views of Central Park and the best view of The Empire State Building. If you want you can pay extra for the photo oppourtunity called The Beam. They lift you up and you can rectreate the iconic photo of the workers who had their lunch on one of the beams while constructing the building. Finally, you can choose if you want your viewing time to be at sunrise, midday, sunset or at night as the perfect send off and goodbye for your trip.
Google Maps from hotel.
There is many observation decks for you to choose from in manhattan. It may not be the tallest observation deck but the reason I pick Top of the Rock is for a few reasons. The history of the building, the iconic picture of the workers sat on the beam comes from here. It has indoors and outdoors observation points, across three different levels. And finally, you get a great straight on view of both Central Park and The Empire State.
Google Maps back to hotel.
The Subway is pretty reliable but you'll still want to aim to get to the airport a couple hours before your flight is due to leave. You can follow the same journey you took back on the subway and then connect with the AirTrain service which will deliver you directly to the exact terminal you need for a safe flight back home.
E, J, Z trains take you to Jamaica Station where you can then get the AirTrain directly into the Airport. Be sure to arrive at the airport at least 2/3 hours before your flight. Have a safe flight home.
I hope this trip leaves you wanting to return again in the near future.
