Three Days in Manhattan with iBestTravel

It’s been 10 years since I moved to New York City, and I rarely tire of its sparkle. Although I don’t consider myself a true local – having grown up on a cul-de-sac and taken a school bus instead of the subway – I’ve made my home in Manhattan, living in various neighborhoods over the past decade. The rent? Astronomical. The possibilities? Priceless.

Jay-Z and Alicia Keys captured the essence of NYC when they called it a “concrete jungle where dreams are made of.” People come here to discover themselves; there are endless choices, and it’s up to you to carve your path through the vibrant chaos. The city comprises five boroughs, each with its distinct magic – Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Bronx, and Staten Island. However, this guide will focus on Manhattan, the hub of the Big Apple’s most iconic attractions.

Friday

Morning: Begin your adventure with a classic New York bagel with bacon, egg, and cheese at Best Bagel Coffee or cream cheese and lox at Russ & Daughters. Next, head to Times Square, NYC’s glittering wonderland. Although locals may avoid it, you must experience its energy at least once. Arriving early will help you beat the crowds. If catching a Broadway show is on your bucket list, consider visiting the TKTS booth for last-minute discounted tickets.

How to spend the day: Instead of climbing up the Empire State Building, consider Summit One Vanderbilt for breathtaking views and immersive art installations. This skyscraper is adjacent to Grand Central Terminal, an architectural marvel worth strolling through – don’t forget to look up at the stunning ceilings! Moreover, it has a food court with plenty of lunch options. If you have time, take the express subway to the Upper East Side and visit The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Even an hour or two spent there is well worth it.

Dinner: For a taste of Japan, try the elusive Sakagura in Midtown, known for its sake and Japanese small plates. For fine dining, you can’t go wrong with the seafood at Michelin-starred Le Pavillon.

After dark: Head downtown for nightlife excitement. Bar hop through the East Village, starting at St. Mark’s Place, or choose a trendy rooftop bar in the Lower East Side for cocktails. Your night may even end with a late-night slice of pizza – a NYC tradition, with options starting at just $1.50.

Saturday

Morning: Start your day with brunch at Two Hands, an Australian café that offers hearty yet healthy dishes. If you have the energy, visit the architectural marvel that is 56 Leonard Street, known as the “Jenga Building,” or Anish Kapoor’s reflective sculpture nearby.

How to spend the day: Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the spacious West Side Highway towards One World Trade Center. Although you might skip the One World Observatory if you’ve had enough stunning views, the 9/11 Memorial and Museum deserves your time – it’s an emotional experience, so carry tissues.

Your next stop is The Oculus, a stunning structure both inside and out. After exploring, grab lunch at Gansevoort Liberty Market, which boasts a variety of delicious options from tacos to sushi. Continue south to Wall Street to see the New York Stock Exchange and the famous Charging Bull Statue; be prepared for a short wait if you want a photo with it.

Dinner: If the weather permits, relax over a pint with bar bites on Stone Street, where outdoor seating enhances your experience. For something more upscale, consider visiting Fraunces Tavern or The Dead Rabbit for a historic dining experience. To conclude your day, visit The Battery, a beautiful park where you can view the Statue of Liberty from afar as the sun sets.

After dark: If you explored the East Side on Friday, venture into West or Greenwich Village on Saturday. This area is rich with gay and lesbian bars, particularly near Stonewall Inn, which played a pivotal role in the LGBTIQ+ rights movement. You’ll find a mix of casual pubs, elegant lounges, jazz clubs, and hidden speakeasies. Katana Kitten is a popular spot for cocktails, but reservations are necessary.

Sunday

Morning: Kick off your last day with coffee and a cronut from Dominique Ansel Bakery. Then, embrace your shopping instincts in SoHo, where various brands have physical stores. If there’s something you’ve been eyeing online, check if it’s available in-store. For a more relaxing experience, stick to the streets on either side of Broadway to avoid crowds.

How to spend the day: After shopping, head uptown by subway to Central Park for a leisurely stroll or bike ride. For a fun twist, pick up a hot dog from street vendors, such as Nathan’s Famous. While Central Park offers a plethora of activities, don’t miss the stunning fountain at Bethesda Terrace. Alternatively, you can rent a rowboat for a truly unique experience on the lake.

Dinner: If your Central Park adventures lead you to its west side, take the subway down to Hudson Yards and stroll around the Vessel. Although you can no longer climb it, the plaza remains a picturesque spot. Then, head towards Little Island, a floating park that debuted in 2021. Before settling down to watch the sunset over lower Manhattan, grab tacos to-go from Chelsea Market.

While you may not see it all, this itinerary ensures you’ll be left craving a return trip to explore even more.

This article was first published on August 7, 2024, and was updated on August 7, 2024.