Your 5-Day Itinerary for New York: Unforgettable NYC Journey!

Planning an unforgettable trip to the Big Apple? Crafting the perfect itinerary for New York can feel overwhelming with so much to see and do. This practical guide simplifies your visit, ensuring you hit all the major highlights without feeling rushed. From navigating the efficient subway system to exploring iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Times Square, we've meticulously designed a five-day journey. Get ready to dive into NYC's vibrant culture, incredible culinary scene, and world-class entertainment, including unforgettable Broadway shows.

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Welcome to the city that never sleeps! New York City (NYC) is more than just a destination; it's a living, breathing entity pulsing with unparalleled energy. From the towering skyscrapers of Manhattan to the creative buzz of Brooklyn, this is the ultimate urban adventure—a place that welcomed over 61 million visitors last year, each seeking their own unique story.

The sheer scale of it all can be overwhelming. With thousands of restaurants, dozens of world-class museums, and iconic landmarks at every turn, the biggest question is: where do you even begin?

Your Practical Roadmap to an Epic 5-Day Trip

That's where this guide comes in. We’ve designed this practical, step-by-step itinerary for New York to take the guesswork out of your planning. Think of this as your personal roadmap to an unforgettable 5-day trip, meticulously crafted to help you navigate the city's highlights with confidence and ease.

Forget feeling lost or wasting precious time. Our goal is to provide a clear, logical path through the Big Apple, ensuring you experience the very best of its culture, food, and history without the stress.

What to Expect: From Planning to Sightseeing

This itinerary is more than just a list of places to visit. It's a comprehensive resource that blends essential travel planning advice with a detailed daily sightseeing schedule. Each day is structured to be efficient and enjoyable, grouping attractions by neighborhood to minimize travel time and maximize your experience.

Ready to dive in? Let's start building your perfect New York City adventure.

With the promise of an unforgettable New York adventure ahead, a little preparation goes a long way. Laying the groundwork before you land ensures your energy is spent on soaking in the sights, not wrestling with logistics. This section is your pre-flight checklist for a smooth and spectacular 5-day trip.

Before You Go: Essential NYC Travel Planning Tips

A great trip is built on smart planning. From navigating the city's arteries to managing your budget, these essential tips will help you hit the ground running with confidence.

Mastering the Maze: Your Guide to the NYC Subway

The New York City subway is the lifeblood of the city and your key to unlocking it efficiently. While it might seem intimidating, it's surprisingly logical once you grasp the basics.

• Uptown vs. Downtown: This is the most crucial concept. "Uptown" trains head north (towards the Bronx from Manhattan), and "Downtown" trains head south (towards Brooklyn). Station entrances will clearly mark which direction the trains are heading.
• Local vs. Express: Local trains stop at every station on the line, while Express trains only stop at major hubs, skipping many stations in between. Pay close attention to the signs on the platform and the train itself to make sure you're on the right one.
• Paying Your Fare: The easiest way to pay is OMNY (One Metro New York). Simply tap your contactless credit card, debit card, or smartphone at the turnstile. The standard fare is $2.90 per ride. The best part for a 5-day trip? OMNY has an automatic weekly fare cap. After you take 12 rides in a single week (Monday to Sunday), the rest of your rides are free!

For real-time directions and service alerts, apps like Google Maps or Citymapper are indispensable. They will tell you exactly which train to take and when it’s arriving.

Budgeting for the Big Apple: Costs & Savings

New York can be as expensive or as affordable as you make it. Planning your budget in advance for key categories helps avoid surprises.

Dining & Drinks

Your daily food costs can vary wildly. You can grab a famous NYC pizza slice for $3-$5 or a street-cart hot dog for a similar price. A casual sit-down meal at a mid-range restaurant will likely cost $30-$60 per person for an entree and a drink. For a 5-day trip, a reasonable daily food budget could be anywhere from $75 to $150 per person, depending on your dining style. Don't forget to factor in an 18-20% tip for table service.

Attractions & Sightseeing

Entrance fees can add up quickly. Major attractions like the Empire State Building (starting at ~$44) or the Museum of Modern Art ($30) have fixed prices. If your itinerary is packed with these ticketed sites, consider a multi-attraction pass like the New York CityPASS or the Go City Pass. These can offer significant savings if the attractions they cover align with your plans.

Shopping

From the luxury boutiques on Fifth Avenue to the trendy shops in SoHo and the countless souvenir stands, shopping opportunities are everywhere. This is a purely personal budget item. It’s wise to set a specific limit for yourself before you go.

Pro Tips for a Smooth & Safe Visit

A few final pieces of advice will make your journey seamless and secure.

• Pack for Comfort: You will walk. A lot. Comfortable, broken-in walking shoes are the single most important item you can pack. Also, dress in layers. The weather can change, and indoor spaces often have powerful air conditioning in the summer or intense heat in the winter.
• Stay Charged: Navigating and taking photos will drain your phone battery. A portable power bank is a non-negotiable travel companion for a long day of exploring.
• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Like any major city, it pays to be vigilant. Keep your valuables secure and out of sight, especially in crowded areas or on the subway. Avoid walking through parks or poorly lit streets alone late at night. NYC is statistically one of the safest large cities in the U.S., but common sense is always your best defense.

With your essential planning complete and your MetroCard in hand, you’re ready to trade preparation for participation. All that groundwork pays off today as you dive headfirst into the very heart of the city, experiencing the landmarks that have defined New York for generations.

Day 1: Iconic Manhattan Landmarks & Cityscapes

Kick off your NYC adventure by immersing yourself in the nucleus of Manhattan. This itinerary is designed to hit the city's most famous sights, capturing the unparalleled energy and iconic skylines that make New York a global destination. The day builds from the dazzling lights of Midtown to the breathtaking heights of a skyscraper, culminating in the quintessential magic of a Broadway show.

Morning: Times Square and Rockefeller Center

Start your day where the world comes to meet: Times Square. Step out of the subway and into a canyon of towering digital billboards, where light and sound create a truly immersive urban spectacle. While it can be overwhelming, arriving in the morning allows you to experience its vibrant energy before the thickest crowds converge. More than just a tourist hub, it's the "Crossroads of the World," welcoming nearly 50 million visitors annually.

From the buzz of Times Square, take a short walk to the more refined, but equally iconic, Rockefeller Center. This complex of 19 Art Deco buildings is a city within a city. Admire the golden Prometheus statue overlooking the central plaza—which features a famed ice rink in winter—and stroll through the serene Channel Gardens. Look up to appreciate the stunning architecture of 30 Rockefeller Plaza.

Lunch: Convenient Midtown Dining

Midtown is packed with dining options perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch that won’t derail your schedule. This is the ideal time to experience a classic New York deli for a piled-high pastrami or corned beef sandwich.

For more variety, consider a food hall like Urbanspace Vanderbilt, where you can find everything from tacos to lobster rolls under one roof. These spots are efficient, delicious, and let you get back to exploring without missing a beat.

Afternoon: A View from the Empire State Building

Next, make your way to a true symbol of New York City's ambition and resilience: the Empire State Building. Standing 1,454 feet tall, this legendary skyscraper offers some of the most famous panoramic views in the world.

A key tip: Book your tickets online in advance. This allows you to choose a specific time slot and bypass the often-lengthy general admission lines. The main open-air observatory on the 86th floor provides the classic, unforgettable 360-degree view of the city grid, Central Park, and the rivers beyond. For an even higher perspective, consider the ticket add-on for the indoor, 102nd-floor viewing area.

Evening: The Magic of a Broadway Show

As dusk settles, it's time to experience the electric atmosphere of the Theater District. There is nothing quite like the energy of seeing a world-class performance in one of the 41 official Broadway theatres. The lit-up marquees and bustling crowds create a magical ambiance before you even step inside.

Whether you're seeing a blockbuster musical or a critically acclaimed play, it’s an essential NYC experience. For potential savings, check the TKTS booth in Times Square for same-day discount tickets or use an app like TodayTix for last-minute deals.

Dinner: Theater District Delights

The Theater District is perfectly equipped to cater to show-goers. Many restaurants in the area offer prix-fixe pre-theater menus, which are designed to provide a fantastic three-course meal while ensuring you get to your show on time.

Alternatively, enjoy a more leisurely post-show dinner. After the final curtain call, you can head to a legendary spot like Sardi's to soak in the theatrical history or find a more casual eatery for a late-night bite to discuss the performance.

After a day spent amidst the kinetic energy of Midtown’s iconic skyscrapers and the dazzling lights of Broadway, your second day in NYC offers a meaningful change of pace. We’ll journey from solemn remembrance and historic shores to the tranquil heart of the city's green lung and one of the world's greatest art institutions.

Day 2: History, Art & Green Oases

Today is a journey through the soul of New York. It’s a day for reflection, discovery, and quiet appreciation, balancing poignant history with the timeless beauty of art and nature.

Morning: A Reflective Visit to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum

Start your day in Lower Manhattan with a visit to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. This is a profoundly moving experience that honors the 2,977 people killed in the terror attacks of September 11, 2001, as well as the six people killed in the 1993 World Trade Center bombing.

The outdoor Memorial is free to visit and features two massive reflecting pools set within the footprints of the original Twin Towers. The names of every victim are inscribed into the bronze parapets surrounding the pools. Take a moment to also find the Survivor Tree, a Callery pear tree that endured the attacks and was nursed back to health, now standing as a living symbol of resilience.

For a deeper understanding of the events and their aftermath, the underground Museum is essential. It houses over 70,000 artifacts, from monumental pieces of structural steel to intimate personal effects.

• Pro Tip: The Museum experience can be emotionally intense. Plan for at least two to three hours and book your timed-entry tickets online in advance to secure your spot and avoid long lines.

Afternoon: An Iconic Ferry Ride to Liberty

From the 9/11 Memorial, it's a short walk to Battery Park, the launching point for your journey to a symbol of freedom recognized worldwide. The ferry ride itself offers spectacular views of the Lower Manhattan skyline, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the harbor.

Your destination is Liberty Island, home to the Statue of Liberty. A gift from France to the United States in 1886, Lady Liberty stands 305 feet tall. Your ferry ticket includes access to the island and the Statue of Liberty Museum. If you want to access the Pedestal or the Crown, you must book tickets far in advance—often three to six months for Crown access.

Your ferry ticket also includes a stop at Ellis Island, the historic gateway where over 12 million immigrants first set foot in America. The National Museum of Immigration here is a powerful tribute to the nation's diverse heritage.

Quick Bite: Lunch Near Battery Park

After your ferry ride, you'll have worked up an appetite. The area around Battery Park offers several options. For a huge variety of quality choices, walk over to Brookfield Place, where the Hudson Eats food hall features everything from artisan pizza and gourmet burgers to fresh salads and sushi, all with clean seating and waterfront views.

Late Afternoon: Unwind in Central Park

Next, trade the historical weight of downtown for the natural splendor of Central Park. This 843-acre masterpiece of landscape architecture is the city's backyard. After a structured morning, this is your time to simply wander and decompress.

Enter the park at its southern end and aim for a few key highlights:

• Strawberry Fields: A tranquil 2.5-acre landscaped section dedicated to the memory of John Lennon.
• Bethesda Terrace and Fountain: Considered the heart of the park, this architectural marvel features an iconic fountain and beautiful arcades.
• The Mall: A grand promenade lined with American elm trees, perfect for a classic New York stroll.

Evening: Cultural Immersion at The Met

As late afternoon fades, make your way to the eastern edge of Central Park for an evening of world-class culture at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, affectionately known as The Met. As the largest art museum in the Americas, its collection spans 5,000 years of global history.

Don't try to see it all. Pick one or two wings that pique your interest. Popular must-sees include the awe-inspiring Temple of Dendur in the Egyptian Art wing, the stunning collection of European Paintings (featuring works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and van Gogh), or the contemporary pieces on the rooftop garden (seasonally).

• Practical Tip: The Met is open late on Fridays and Saturdays, making it an ideal evening activity. Check their website for current hours and to purchase tickets online, allowing you to bypass the main ticket queues.

Day 3: Brooklyn Charm & Grandeur

After a day spent amidst Manhattan's monumental history and sprawling green spaces, it's time to shift your perspective and discover the distinct character of its neighboring borough. Today, you'll venture across the East River to experience the unique charm, artistic energy, and grand vistas of Brooklyn.

Morning: A Scenic Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge

Begin your day with one of New York's most iconic experiences: walking across the Brooklyn Bridge. For the most dramatic views, start on the Manhattan side (near the Brooklyn Bridge-City Hall subway station) and walk towards Brooklyn. This orientation keeps the Lower Manhattan skyline in your sights the entire way.

The pedestrian walkway is just over a mile long and the walk typically takes 30-60 minutes, depending on your pace and how often you stop for photos. Go early in the morning to avoid the thickest crowds and enjoy the soft light. As you stroll along the wooden planks, take a moment to admire the bridge’s magnificent Gothic towers and intricate web of steel cables—an engineering marvel that first opened to the public in 1883.

Explore Brooklyn Neighborhoods: DUMBO and Brooklyn Heights

Once you step off the bridge into Brooklyn, you're perfectly positioned to explore two of its most famous neighborhoods.

DUMBO: Cobblestones and Iconic Views

Welcome to DUMBO, an acronym for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass. This former industrial area is now a vibrant hub of art galleries, chic boutiques, and stunning waterfront parks.

Make your way to Washington Street between Front and Water Streets for the classic, Instagram-famous shot of the Manhattan Bridge perfectly framed by red-brick warehouses. Afterward, wander through Brooklyn Bridge Park for unparalleled views, ride the beautifully restored Jane's Carousel, or skip stones at Pebble Beach.

Brooklyn Heights: Historic Brownstones and the Promenade

A short walk from the hustle of DUMBO lies the tranquil, tree-lined elegance of Brooklyn Heights. As New York City's first designated historic district, its streets are a showcase of impeccably preserved 19th-century brownstones and rowhouses.

The neighborhood's crown jewel is the Brooklyn Heights Promenade, a third-of-a-mile-long esplanade offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Statue of Liberty, the Lower Manhattan skyline, and the Brooklyn Bridge. It's the perfect spot for a peaceful stroll and a moment of quiet appreciation.

Lunch: Savoring Local Flavors in Brooklyn

By now, you’ve worked up an appetite. Dining (NYC) in Brooklyn offers a delicious slice of local life. DUMBO and the surrounding area are famous for world-class pizza. You can join

After immersing yourself in Brooklyn's distinct character and the timeless grandeur of Grand Central, Day 4 is your opportunity to tailor the New York experience to your personal passions. It’s a day for diving deeper into the city's cultural heart and legendary shopping scenes, all at your own pace.

Day 4: More Museums, Shopping & Neighborhood Exploration

With the city's layout becoming more familiar, today is perfect for customizing your itinerary. Whether you're an art aficionado, a dedicated shopper, or a neighborhood wanderer, this flexible plan allows you to follow your interests.

Morning: A Cultural Deep Dive

Start your day by exploring another of New York City's world-class institutions. While The Met is a universe in itself, two other giants of the Museums (NYC) scene offer completely different, equally captivating experiences.

Choose one of these titans for your morning adventure:

• The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): Located in Midtown Manhattan, MoMA is a temple to modern and contemporary art. Here, you can stand inches from iconic masterpieces like Vincent van Gogh's The Starry Night, Claude Monet's Water Lilies, and Andy Warhol's Campbell's Soup Cans. With a collection of nearly 200,000 works, it’s a must-see for art lovers. Pro-tip: Book your timed-entry tickets online in advance to avoid long lines.

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• American Museum of Natural History: Facing Central Park on the Upper West Side, this museum is a wonderland of science and history. Prepare to be awed by the towering Barosaurus skeleton in the main rotunda, the 94-foot-long blue whale model in the Hall of Ocean Life, and the world-renowned dinosaur fossils. Spanning 45 permanent exhibition halls, it’s an unforgettable journey through the natural world.

Afternoon: Retail Therapy Across Manhattan

After your cultural fix, it’s time to experience another famous New York pastime: Shopping (NYC). Manhattan offers a district for every style and budget.

• For Classic Luxury (Fifth Avenue): Stroll down the iconic stretch of Fifth Avenue between 49th and 60th Streets. Here you'll find legendary department stores like Saks Fifth Avenue and Bergdorf Goodman, alongside flagship boutiques for brands like Tiffany & Co. and Apple.

• For Trendy & Artsy (SoHo): Head downtown to SoHo (South of Houston Street), famous for its cast-iron architecture, cobblestone streets, and impeccable style. Broadway is lined with major retailers, while the quieter side streets like Greene and Mercer are home to high-end designer boutiques and independent shops.

Lunch Amidst the Shopping Bags

All that walking and shopping requires fuel. Luckily, you’re never far from excellent Dining (NYC). In SoHo, grab a table at a chic café or enjoy the bustling scene at a classic French brasserie. Near Fifth Avenue, you'll find everything from quick-service lunch spots to elegant bistros tucked away on the side streets.

Late Afternoon & Evening: Choose Your Own Adventure

For the final part of your day, the choice is yours. This is your chance for more Sightseeing in one of the city's unique Neighborhoods (NYC) or a chance to return to a spot you loved.

• Explore Greenwich Village: Just north of SoHo, this historic neighborhood is pure magic. Wander through Washington Square Park, watch the street performers under the iconic arch, and get lost in the charming, leafy streets. The area has a rich bohemian history and is filled with cozy cafes, jazz clubs, and fantastic restaurants for dinner.

• Discover the West Village: Known for its crooked streets and beautiful brownstones, the West Village feels like a small town within the big city. It’s perfect for a relaxing stroll, popping into unique bookstores, and enjoying a more intimate, local atmosphere.

• Revisit a Favorite Spot: Did you fall in love with the High Line? Wish you had more time in Central Park? Use this evening to go back. A great itinerary is one that's flexible, and returning to a place that captured your heart is a perfect way to end the day.

After delving deeper into New York's cultural tapestry and diverse shopping districts on Day 4, you've truly experienced the city's incredible depth. Now, as your memorable journey draws to a close, Day 5 is dedicated to savoring those final moments, gathering last-minute mementos, and reflecting on the wealth of experiences you've gathered.

Day 5: Farewell NYC – Lasting Memories

As your unforgettable journey concludes, this section provides ideas for making the most of your final hours in New York City. It focuses on cherished last moments, souvenir hunting, and reflecting on the incredible memories created during your trip.

Morning: A Final NYC Delight or Leisurely Stroll

Begin your last day with a moment of indulgence. Opt for a final, delightful New York City brunch, a quintessential experience that caps off any visit. Whether it's a classic diner breakfast in a bustling neighborhood or a trendy, modern brunch spot in Greenwich Village or the Lower East Side, savoring this meal offers a wonderful final taste of the city's culinary scene. Many brunch spots, especially on weekends, open around 10 AM, allowing for a relaxed start.

Alternatively, if you prefer a quieter farewell, enjoy a leisurely morning stroll. Revisit a beloved park, perhaps Central Park for one last glimpse of its iconic landscapes, or simply wander through a charming side street in a neighborhood you particularly enjoyed. This allows for a reflective, unhurried appreciation of your surroundings before the rush of departure.

Last-Minute Souvenir Shopping

Before you head out, dedicate some time to last-minute shopping (NYC) for souvenirs. These tangible reminders will help you recall your incredible 5-day trip. While major tourist areas like Times Square offer a plethora of "I Heart NYC" merchandise, consider exploring other options for more unique finds.

Museum gift shops, like those at the Metropolitan Museum of Art or the Museum of Modern Art, offer art-inspired items, books, and prints. For something more authentic, explore the small boutiques in neighborhoods like SoHo or the East Village, where you might discover artisan crafts, independent fashion, or locally made goods. Even a stop at a Duane Reade or similar pharmacy can yield iconic NYC-themed candy or branded items, serving as quick, memorable tokens.

Reflecting on Your NYC Itinerary

Take a moment to reflect on the incredible sightseeing and experiences gathered during your itinerary for New York. Look through the photos you've taken, or simply sit with a cup of coffee and recall your favorite moments.

Did you love the towering architecture of Midtown, the artistic vibe of Brooklyn, or the historical significance of Lower Manhattan? From the iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Empire State Building to the diverse neighborhoods, world-class museums, and unforgettable Broadway shows, your trip has likely been packed with unique memories. Acknowledging these experiences helps solidify them as cherished parts of your travel story.

Departure from New York City

As the time for departure approaches, ensure you have all your belongings and are ready for your journey home. New York City is served by three major airports: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). Each has various transportation options, including subway lines, AirTrain services, express buses, and taxis/rideshares.

Allow ample time for travel to the airport, especially during peak hours, as traffic can be unpredictable. With your bags packed and your heart full of unforgettable memories, you'll depart from New York City, carrying with you the indelible spirit of one of the world's most dynamic destinations.

As your unforgettable journey wraps up and you carry home a suitcase full of cherished memories, you've likely realized that a successful New York City adventure isn't just about what you see, but how smoothly you experience it. To ensure every moment of your 5-day trip—or any future visit—is as hassle-free and enjoyable as possible, let's consolidate some essential practical advice.

Practical Tips for Your NYC Itinerary

Beyond the day-by-day breakdown, this section consolidates vital practical advice to enhance your entire trip. From mastering public transport to making smart dining and shopping choices, these tips are designed for a truly hassle-free experience.

Mastering NYC Public Transportation

The New York City Subway is your best friend for getting around. It operates 24/7, reaching virtually every corner of Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx.

Maximizing Your Use of the Subway

• OMNY System: Forget fumbling for change. NYC is transitioning from the MetroCard to OMNY, a convenient tap-and-go system. You can simply tap your credit card, debit card, or mobile wallet (Apple Pay, Google Pay) directly on the turnstile reader. For frequent use, OMNY also offers a fare cap, meaning once you hit a certain amount (currently equivalent to 12 rides) within a seven-day period, the rest of your rides are free until the week resets. MetroCards are still available but OMNY is the future.
• Understanding Directions: Subway lines are typically designated as "Uptown" (heading north, typically towards the Bronx) or "Downtown" (heading south, typically towards Lower Manhattan/Brooklyn). Always double-check the platform signs.
• Express vs. Local: Some lines have "Express" trains that skip stops, and "Local" trains that stop at every station. Pay attention to the train signage and station announcements to ensure you're on the right one for your destination.
• Navigation Apps: Download apps like Google Maps or Citymapper. They provide real-time subway schedules, delays, and the fastest routes, making navigation incredibly easy, even for first-timers.

Navigating New York City Safely and Efficiently

While the subway handles long distances, you'll be doing a lot of walking and need to be street-smart.

Walking and Street Smarts

• Look Up, But Watch Out: It's tempting to gaze at the magnificent skyscrapers, but always be aware of your surroundings, especially when crossing streets. New York pedestrians often jaywalk, but as a visitor, it's safer to stick to designated crosswalks and obey pedestrian signals.
• Pedestrian Signals: Don't start walking until the "Walk" signal (usually a white walking person) appears. When the flashing "Don't Walk" (red hand) or countdown starts, traffic is about to resume.
• Valuables: Keep bags zipped and secure, and avoid flashing large amounts of cash or expensive electronics, especially in crowded tourist areas like Times Square or major subway stations.
• Taxis and Rideshare: For shorter distances, late nights, or when carrying heavy bags, taxis (yellow cabs) and rideshare services (Uber, Lyft) are readily available. Be aware of surge pricing during peak hours for rideshares. Tipping 15-20% is customary for taxi drivers.

Making the Most of Dining and Shopping Opportunities

New York City offers an unparalleled array of culinary and retail experiences. Planning can help you avoid tourist traps and make the most of your budget.

Dining in the Big Apple

• Reservations are Key: For popular restaurants, especially those in trendy neighborhoods or highly-rated establishments, make reservations weeks or even months in advance using apps like OpenTable or Resy. New York City boasts over 24,000 restaurants, offering everything from Michelin-starred fine dining to incredible street food.
• Diverse Options: Don't stick to just one type of cuisine. Explore the diverse neighborhoods for authentic flavors—Italian in Greenwich Village, dim sum in Chinatown, or a bagel from a classic deli.
• Street Food & Food Halls: For quick, delicious, and often more affordable meals, explore the city's vibrant food truck scene or visit one of its many modern food halls like Chelsea Market or Urbanspace.
• Tipping Etiquette: A tip of 18-20% of the total bill is standard for good service at sit-down restaurants. For casual dining or takeout, rounding up or leaving a few dollars is appreciated.

Shopping Smarter

• Sales Tax: Be aware that New York City has an 8.875% sales tax on most goods. However, clothing and footwear priced under $110 per item are exempt from New York State and local sales taxes, which can add up to significant savings.
• Flagship Stores & Boutiques: Explore the iconic flagship stores on Fifth Avenue, but also venture into neighborhoods like SoHo for unique boutiques and independent designers, or Union Square for major retailers.
• Souvenir Savvy: For souvenirs, explore diverse options beyond Times Square. Museum gift shops offer unique, quality items, and neighborhood markets can provide more authentic finds.

Additional Advice for a Smooth and Enjoyable 5-Day Trip

A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring your trip is as memorable as planned.

• Comfortable Shoes are a Must: You will be doing an immense amount of walking. The average tourist in NYC walks 5-10 miles a day. Pack at least two pairs of broken-in, comfortable walking shoes. Your feet will thank you.
• Book Attractions in Advance: For popular attractions like Broadway shows, the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty ferries, or SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, book your tickets online well in advance to secure your spot and often save time by skipping lines.
• Layer Up: New York weather can be unpredictable, with temperatures fluctuating significantly even within a single day. Dressing in layers allows you to adapt easily to changing indoor and outdoor temperatures.
• Stay Hydrated: Carry a reusable water bottle. Many public parks and cafes offer water refilling stations.
• Portable Charger: With constant photo-taking, map-checking, and social media updates, your phone battery will drain quickly. A fully charged portable power bank is a lifesaver.
• Utilize Free Wi-Fi: Many public parks, coffee shops, and LinkNYC kiosks scattered throughout the city offer free Wi-Fi, helping you stay connected without racking up data charges.

We hope this comprehensive itinerary for New York empowers you to explore the city with confidence and create lasting memories. Enjoy every moment of your incredible NYC adventure!