Are you craving a getaway but don’t have the time for a long vacation? Or maybe you’re just dipping your toes into travel and looking for a manageable adventure. Welcome to another installment of our Weekend Warrior series, where we bring you short yet impactful travel itineraries. Today, we’re spotlighting New York City, the perfect destination for a quick yet jampacked escape.

However, with its towering skyscrapers, endless attractions, and bustling crowds, NYC can be overwhelming—especially for first-time visitors. Dropping into this metropolis without a plan may leave you lost, over budget, and stressed. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you maximize your weekend in the city that never sleeps.

Day 1: Exploring the Iconic Sights

Morning: A Classic NYC Start

Begin your adventure with a traditional New York bagel breakfast. Avoid the chains and look for places that seem busy, but not trendy, to find the best bagels. Then, dive straight into the heart of the city with a visit to Times Square, where you can soak in the vibrant energy. Times Square isn’t our favorite spot in NYC, but everyone has to experience it at least once. If you’re looking to see a Broadway show, check out the TKTS booth in the center of Times Square for some discounted tickets! 

Continue to Rockefeller Center for breathtaking skyline views from the Top of the Rock Observation Deck or enjoy ice skating if visiting in winter.

Afternoon: Culture and Cuisine

Take a stroll through Central Park or immerse yourself in world-class art at The Met or MoMA. You could also stop by the Natural History Museum, it’s one of our favorite spots in the city. For lunch, check out a pizza place or street vendor for that authentic New York experience. For street vendors, you’ll find hotdogs and halal food on every street corner and pizza should be grab and go to really be authentic. On a nice day, take your food to the park to have a city picnic! 

Evening: Broadway and Dining

No NYC trip is complete without a Broadway show. This is really the reason Bruce and I frequent NYC so much. If you have a show in mind, book it ahead of time to guarantee good seats. If you aren’t sure, stop by one of the TKTS booths and choose a discounted show. Just keep in mind, some of the more popular shows (Wicked, Lion King, Book of Mormon) are often not sold at a discounted price. Before the performance, enjoy a delicious meal in the Theatre District, there are lots of great choices but we always end up at Joe Allen’s! 

Day 2: Neighborhood Adventures

Morning: Brooklyn or Lower Manhattan

Kick off your second day by walking across the Brooklyn Bridge for stunning city views, followed by breakfast at a charming café in DUMBO. Alternatively, explore Lower Manhattan’s Financial District, including the 9/11 Memorial and a ferry trip to the Statue of Liberty.

Pro Tip- You can take a “free” trip to get a great view of the Statue of Liberty by taking the Staten Island Ferry. Just keep in mind that people on that ferry are actually commuting and not necessarily visiting, so be respectful of space! 

Afternoon: Chelsea, Chinatown, and Little Italy

For lunch, enjoy authentic dumplings in Chinatown- this would be a great place to catch a food tour. Some of the best eats of the city are in Chinatown, if you know where to find them. Then, wander through the art galleries in Chelsea or indulge in cannoli in Little Italy. If you do end up in Chelsea, make sure to stroll through Chelsea Market for some fun souvenir finds from local artists! 

Evening: Rooftop Views and a Memorable Farewell

Wrap up your trip with stunning rooftop views at spots like 230 Fifth, Westlight or a trip to the Empire State Building. For your final meal, choose a dining experience that represents NYC’s culinary diversity, whether it’s a Michelin-starred restaurant or a hidden gem in the East Village. We like to visit a local pub before heading off, but if you’re a foodie you can’t leave New York without a dip into their culinary scene. 

Final Tips for a Seamless NYC Weekend

• Book in Advance: In busy seasons like the summer, you’ll want to make any reservations ahead of time. Especially for any trendy restaurants you might have found on instagram or tik tok. If your heart is set on seeing Wicked or Lion King, get those tickets in advance as well! 
• Use Public Transport: The subway is the fastest and most efficient way to navigate the city. It is not difficult to manage and Google Maps typically gives you play by play instructions. Parking is very difficult and expensive in NYC- I would not recommend a car.
• Dress Accordingly: Expect to walk extensively—NYC is best explored on foot. But NYC is also in the Northeast and can experience some serious weather. Expect very hot summer and very cold winters. Fashion is fun to show off in NYC, just make sure you fit the season (and wear comfy shoes!).

New York City offers an electrifying experience, and with a solid plan, you can make the most of your weekend visit. Happy travels, and stay tuned for more Weekend Warrior adventures!

Did we miss any of your favorite spots in NYC? Don’t keep them a secret, drop them below!